NBC’s 24/7 ‘Million Second Quiz’ Offers Answer to Timeshifting, Primetime Exodus

Sports and live reality shows still get viewers, and "Million Second Quiz" incorporates elements of both

NBC has ordered “The Million Second Quiz,” in which contestants will engage in intense bouts of trivia for 12 consecutive days and nights for a $10 million prize.

Getty Images The show, which will air this fall, is an attempt to win back viewers who have slinked away from primetime in favor of DVR and other timeshifted viewing. Networks know that live reality shows and sports contests still draw audiences, and "Million Second Quiz" has elements of both.

The show also tries to incorporate the second-screen experience into viewing, inviting fans to play along rather than tuning out in favor of the Internet.

The competition will air live in primetime from a gigantic, hourglass-shaped structure in the heart of Manhattan. The four players who have remained in the game the longest will also live there. Other contestants will attempt to unseat them during primetime airings.

But the show will also air 24 hours a day across other formats, with viewers able to play along at home.

NBC affiliates will be able to interact live throughout the day and during the primetime show.

When the million seconds draw to a close, the champions will battle it out for the final prize.

“'The Million Second Quiz' is a genre-redefining spectacle." said Paul Telegdy, president of alternative and late night programming (pictured). “It is a game, a social experiment, and a live interactive event all wrapped into a uniquely sticky entertainment experience. What is exceptional about 'The Million Second Quiz' is that it embraces technology’s ability to allow everyone in America to actively participate and compete in a way that has never been done.”

“The Million Second Quiz” is produced by All3 Media America, Studio Lambert and Universal Television. Stephen Lambert, Eli Holzman and David Hurwitz serve as executive producers.

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