Game on, D.L. Hughley.
Of the five syndicated fall TV game shows, the only two up in the key demo year-over-year are hosted by members of the “Original Kings of Comedy.”
With Bernie Mac‘s 2008 death, the comedy quartet became a trio. The only surviving member not jump-starting game show ratings right now is Hughley. But he will have his chance to match his friends’ success when “Trust Me, I’m a Game Show Host” premieres next week. Comedian Michael Ian Black will co-host the show.
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“Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?,” hosted by Cedric “The Entertainer,” is up 20 percent in the advertiser-coveted 18-49 demographic from the same time period last year, when it was hosted by Meredith Vieira. However, that large jump is skewed somewhat when considering the small ratings in question — a 0.6 vs. 2012’s 0.5.
“Family Feud,” hosted by friend and stand-up comedy tour collaborator Steve Harvey, is up 15 percent year-over-year — a 1.3 rating to a 1.5.
The other three syndicated game shows — “Cash Cab,” “Jeopardy” and “Wheel of Fortune” — are all flat from 2012’s fall-to-date measurement.
While “Millionaire” has grown under its new host, it still ranks fourth out of the five shows in ratings and viewers. “Trust Me, I’m a Game Show Host” debuts Oct. 22.