Wayne Brady Asserts That ‘Let’s Make a Deal’ Contestants Would Arrive Intoxicated or Under the Influence for Recordings

Behind the Scenes of Game Show Hosting

It was just another typical day until I stumbled across Wayne Brady’s candid revelations about the backstage antics on game shows. You know, those unpredictable moments that never make it to air? Brady, known for his charisma and quick wit, opened up about something a bit unexpected: the state in which some contestants arrived at the tapings.

“In the early days,” he mentioned, “we had quite a few contestants who’d show up either high or drunk.” Imagine the scene: contestants giggling more than usual or perhaps staggering onto the set. It sounds a bit like a scene from a quirky comedy, doesn’t it? Though these occurrences have apparently dwindled over time, it’s still amusing to think about. Brady thinks audiences have become more aware of what’s expected. They come prepared for anything – ready to sing or dance, all while trying not to look too foolish.

This isn’t a phenomenon limited to Brady’s show. Drew Carey, another beloved host, shared similar experiences. “Oh, that happens here all the time,” Carey said with a chuckle. He described instances of smelling alcohol or hearing rumors of contestants having indulged in a little something extra beforehand. One tale involved a contestant “tripping on mushrooms” who claimed to be a skateboarding rabbi-a detail so bizarre it sounds made-up, yet Carey insists it was all too real.

The thought that people might turn up slightly less than sober might raise eyebrows. But Carey offers an interesting perspective: “They’re regular folks with everyday lives,” he says, acknowledging that many are just trying to calm their nerves in whatever way they can before stepping into the spotlight. These aren’t polished celebrities; they’re ordinary people who bring their quirks-and sometimes nerves-to the stage.

I remember once attending a small taping myself. There was this palpable mix of excitement and jitters in the room-everyone buzzing with anticipation. It’s not too hard to see why someone might seek a little liquid courage beforehand.

Brady and Carey’s stories shine a light on how game shows aren’t just about winning prizes-they’re also about experiencing genuine human moments, complete with imperfections and spontaneity. For further context, here’s an interesting read from NPR about the dynamic world behind TV shows.

In this way, game shows do more than entertain-they reveal slices of life and character that often go unnoticed. Perhaps that’s what makes them so appealing; they’re like a snapshot of humanity, caught in moments of both triumph and hilarity.

For more context, see this BBC Entertainment overview.