How to Get on the Deal or No Deal TV Show

Most people spend their time watching Deal or No Deal doing one of two things: yelling at the bold stupidity of contestants blowing their chances, or holding your ears when they shriek into their microphones. There are some you cheer for—not that icky “banker,” though--and dream about what you would do if given your chance at the game show. Here’s what to do to try and get that chance.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• VHS video tape
• 2 photos each of you and your “cheering section” (one close-up each and one full body)
• Copy of your driver’s license
• Envelope with postage for mailing tape and photos

1. Check out the NBC website (see Resources) for the open casting calls in specific cities and states. If you can’t attend one of these, see Step 2. If you do attend the casting call, be aware that you may have to pay parking or an admission fee to get in. However, the show guarantees that everyone showing up at a casting call will be seen.
2. If a casting call is not available, put together a 5-minute VHS videotape of both you and the supporters you would bring to DOND, and sell yourself to the producers. Include your name and city, with a little about yourself. Provide a description of what you would do if able to win the million dollars. NBC is primarily interested in becoming acquainted with you as an individual, so they want you to show them your personality. Competition is fierce, however, as the show receives 7,000 to 8,000 tapes per month, with only 10 people to sort and check them out.
3. Download an application for the show from the website and fill it out, as well as include recent photos of you and everyone from your group. Send two good pics of each person—one each close up and full body--and label the backs with their names and phone numbers. Expect the tape and photos to not be returned.
4. Know that you must be at least 18 years old, and a legal resident of the United States. You also cannot be a politician—and not expected to be one until after one year of your show appearance, if you are selected as a contestant. You, nor your immediate family or residential members, also can’t be connected with the show in any way within the past two years.
5. The application should be handwritten and filled out in dark ink. Write only on the printed side of the application; add extra sheets if necessary. Expect creative questions that will need equally creative answers; you must draw a self-portrait, write a rap or short poem and talk about your most embarrassing moment, among other topics.
6. You will need Adobe Reader to download the form; the NBC website also offers you a free copy if you don’t already have it. Producers are looking for honest and thoughtful answers. Make sure to sign it.
7. Legibly mark your tape with your name, address and contact number, making sure to rewind the tape for additional points with producers. Include a copy of your driver’s license. Send the package to the contestant department at: Deal or No Deal Casting, P.O. Box 1916, Culver City, CA 90232. Verify the latest address at the website before sending.

Tips & Warnings

• Try practicing with the online game to have a better feel for the rhythm and to test your acumen.
• Only one application per person is allowed. And, do NOT call the show to see if you are selected. If you are, they will contact you.
• Be prepared to reveal any arrests, evictions, litigation, or school/work/military disciplinary proceedings, among other nebulous matters.
• Keep up-to-date on requirements like not having been on any game/talk/reality within the past two years, or appearing on one that will be aired in the next year.
• Warning: Do not apply stickers or art to the application, spray it with scents, or include cutesy extras like confetti.