Proposal for Television Game Show: “Hooked Up!”


Prepared by: Mike Kunert
Date: 3/10/2025

1.Overview

“Hooked Up!” is a fast-paced, high-stakes television game show where contestants test their knowledge of celebrity relationships as reported in tabloid magazines. The game revolves around a chain of confirmed past relationships, with contestants competing to see how far they can extend the chain before losing or cashing out. Each relationship claim is verified in real-time using AI-powered fact-checking, adding an exciting layer of suspense and credibility. The show offers a mix of pop culture, strategy, and risk-taking, appealing to audiences who enjoy celebrity gossip, trivia, and competitive gameplay.

2. Game Format

Opening Round

  • Two contestants are chosen to face off in each game.
  • A randomly selected celebrity name is displayed as the starting point.
  • The first contestant must name a person with whom the celebrity has reportedly had a romantic or sexual relationship, as verified by any of three AI-powered sources.
  • If confirmed, the contestant earns $1,000 and chooses whether to continue or cash out.
  • The turn then alternates to the second contestant, who must build upon the chain by naming another valid connection from the previous celebrity.

Game Progression & Verification

  • Each successful verification doubles the contestant’s winnings.
  • Contestants may quit at any time and take their earnings.
  • If a claim is not verified, the other contestant automatically wins the game.
  • The game continues until one contestant either decides to cash out or is eliminated by an unverified claim.

Winning & Prizes

  • Contestants may quit at any time with their accumulated winnings.
  • The maximum possible prize for a perfect round (7 correct connections) is $64,000.
  • If one contestant loses due to an unverified claim, the other contestant wins and takes their own accumulated earnings or a $5,000 bonus if they had no winnings yet.
  • If a contestant loses, they receive a humorous but valuable consolation prize (e.g., a year’s subscription to a tabloid magazine).

3. Unique Selling Points

AI-Driven Fact-Checking

  • The use of AI-powered verification creates real-time suspense and ensures accuracy.
  • Viewers can follow the confirmation process on-screen, increasing engagement and trust.

Celebrity Gossip & Pop Culture Appeal

  • The game taps into the widespread public fascination with celebrity relationships.
  • The show encourages debate, speculation, and audience participation through social media integration.

Risk vs. Reward Strategy

  • Contestants must decide whether to continue playing or take their winnings, creating dramatic tension.
  • The “sudden loss” rule—where an unverified claim immediately results in the opponent winning—adds a layer of strategic decision-making.

Humorous & Lighthearted Tone

  • The show is designed to be fun, playful, and slightly irreverent, making it accessible to a broad audience.
  • A witty celebrity host adds humor and entertainment value.

4. Production Considerations

Host & Contestants

  • The show requires a well-known, engaging celebrity host with a background in comedy or entertainment.
  • Contestants are selected based on their enthusiasm for celebrity gossip and their ability to think quickly under pressure.

Set Design & Technology

  • A sleek, modern game-show set with large interactive screens displaying AI verification results.
  • Bright, engaging visuals with a dynamic interface for tracking celebrity relationship chains.

AI Integration

  • The game relies on real-time AI-powered search and verification.
  • Three AI sources will cross-check contestant claims, ensuring credibility and transparency.

5. Target Audience & Market Potential

  • Primary Audience: Adults 18-49, particularly those interested in celebrity culture, gossip, and game shows.
  • Secondary Audience: Reality TV fans, trivia enthusiasts, and social media users who engage in pop culture discussions.
  • Distribution Potential: Network television, streaming platforms (Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video), and international markets.
  • Sponsorship & Advertising: Opportunities for partnerships with entertainment media, tabloid magazines, and social media platforms.