Jay Pharoah Talks About Hosting the Most Fun Game Show on TV – Reality TV Summit
Jay Pharoah Embraces Hosting Duties on Fox’s “The Quiz with Balls”
Jay Pharoah, celebrated for his time on Saturday Night Live from 2010 to 2016, has taken on the role of host for Fox’s The Quiz with Balls, although he initially had reservations about the show’s title.
In interviews, Pharoah shared that discussions with Fox regarding the hosting opportunity had been ongoing before he ultimately accepted. He humorously reflected on how his grandmother, who is in her 80s and enjoys discussing his career at church, might perceive the name. “She’s in her 80s. She likes talking about me at church. I mean, that’s kind of weird,” he remarked.
Debuting in May 2024, The Quiz with Balls features two families competing while standing on a high platform above a pool. Contestants answer multiple-choice questions where each option corresponds to a position marked by a giant ball. This unique format has led to the show being described as the wettest game show on television, and it is currently airing its third season.
Pharoah expressed his enthusiasm for the show, saying, “The wettest game show on television, that’s wild to say. It feels good, man. I like giving away money to people that need it. I can’t help you but I can root for you. I can cheer for you.” He likened the show to a blend of Wipeout and Family Feud, adding, “You just have fun when people get knocked in and articles of clothing go off, like a shoe be floating.”
Produced by Eureka and Talpa Studios and filmed in Belgium, this season has seen the introduction of new challenges, including the Do or Die Round. Pharoah noted, “I think we’ve really upped the ante with the games this season. If you’re in it and you only have one family member, you know, you got to just get one right answer. That gives a chance for people to catch up, and it’s heartfelt.”
