Beloved Game Show Makes Surprising Change That’ll Have Fans Racing to Get Tickets

Quick Smiles:

• Your odds of playing just got way better on America’s favorite game show
• Smaller audiences mean more chances to win big prizes and meet Drew Carey
• Long-running show stays true to its roots while adapting for modern times

It’s hard to believe the modern era of “The Price Is Right” began in 1972. Bob Barker and his skinny microphone gave away money, cars, and fantastic prizes to screaming contestants.

The show has changed since the 1970s, most notably with Drew Carey taking over as host in 2007. For the 55th season, “The Price Is Right” is making a big change that will increase an audience member’s shot at making it to Contestants’ Row.

Randy West, who works as the announcer for the national game show tour, shared some insight on Facebook. He explained that things have changed in our world and at “The Price Is Right.”

“There were days when there were empty seats and audience members from a day’s first taping were being encouraged to stay for a second show. Potential audience members were being recruited from the neighboring Farmers Market, and – ready for this – people were being PAID to fill the empty seats!”

“The Price Is Right” Adapted to the Times

According to Randy West, instead of moving to Georgia, where production would be much less expensive, “The Price Is Right” opted to stay in California. But now, it will have a much smaller audience.

Gone are the days of more than 300 contestants vying for a chance to play Plinko. The new format creates a more intimate experience while maintaining the show’s beloved energy.

“Starting this September, The Price Is Right audience will be about one-third the size it had been at Television City. It’s strictly a cost-cutting measure because, when you do the math of paying a dozen or two, or more, seat-fillers every tape day over the course of a season, you’d have likely asked yourself the same question: Why do we need that many people? Answer that question yourself in a few weeks when the new shows air.”

Fewer people mean better odds. For fans who’ve always dreamed of spinning the Big Wheel or guessing the price of a new car, now’s the perfect time to give “The Price is Right” a shot.

The show’s commitment to staying in California and keeping its legendary status alive shows that sometimes change can lead to wonderful new opportunities—especially when it means more chances for everyday people to win life-changing prizes.

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