In a surprising turn of events, the beloved game show "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" is set to return to Australian television, but this time on Network 10 instead of its original home on Nine. The revival marks a significant moment for fans of the iconic series, which has been a staple of Australian entertainment since its debut in 1999.

Key Takeaways

• Network Change: The show will air on Network 10, not Nine.
• Casting Complete: Filming is set to begin soon in Melbourne.
• Format Shift: Expected to be a series of primetime specials rather than a nightly show.
• Nostalgia Trend: Part of a broader trend of classic game show revivals in Australia.

A New Era for a Classic Game Show

"Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" first captivated audiences in Australia when it launched on the Nine Network with Eddie McGuire as its host. The show quickly became a cultural phenomenon, leading to the creation of the spin-off "Millionaire Hot Seat" in 2009. However, after more than two decades, the latter was put on hiatus in late 2023, making way for new programming.

Despite a brief revival with specials in 2021, it seemed the franchise was winding down. Yet, the global popularity of the format, with successful versions still airing in the UK and the US, has prompted Network 10 to breathe new life into the show.

What to Expect from the Revival

While specific details about the host and the exact timeslot remain undisclosed, insiders suggest that the new version will not follow the nightly format of "Hot Seat." Instead, viewers can anticipate a series of primetime specials that will air alongside other key programming on Network 10.

• Production Team: Sony Pictures Television, which owns the format, is expected to collaborate with Curio Pictures, known for their work on other successful shows like "Shark Tank Australia."
• Potential Hosts: While Eddie McGuire’s return as host is a possibility, no official announcements have been made yet.

The Nostalgia Factor

The revival of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" is part of a larger trend in Australian television, where networks are increasingly turning to nostalgia to attract viewers. Last year, Network 10 successfully brought back "Deal or No Deal," which now airs weeknights with Grant Denyer at the helm. Ironically, both "Deal or No Deal" and "Millionaire" were originally launched as competitors, and now they will coexist on the same network.

Additionally, Network 10 has attempted to revive other classic formats, such as "Wheel of Fortune," although not all have met with success. The recent struggles of the UK version of "Wheel of Fortune" on Friday nights highlight the challenges of reviving beloved shows in a modern context.

Conclusion

As the excitement builds for the return of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" on Network 10, fans are left wondering if the show can recapture the magic that made it a household name. With the nostalgia factor in play and a fresh approach to its format, the revival could potentially strike ratings gold once again. Stay tuned for more updates on the host and premiere date as production gears up in Melbourne!