ABC has revealed the identities of the 10 Americans who will be competing in I Survived a Japanese Game Show, a new reality series that will follow the contestants as they travel to Japan to compete in various challenges for the chance to claim a $250,000.
ADVERTISEMENT
I Survived a Japanese Game Show's cast consists of six women and four men who range in age from 21- to 44-years-old and come from a variety of backgrounds. Many of the show's 10 contestants had never previously traveled outside the United States, according to ABC.
Each episode will follow the contestants as they compete in a series of challenges traditionally seen on Japanese game shows.
The contestants will be eliminated throughout the series, and the player who best adapts to the Japanese culture and overcomes each episode's challenges will take home the $250,000 grand prize.
Guiding the contestants through their stay in Japan will be American actor Tony Sano, who will serve as a host and interpreter; Mamasan, a house mother for the participants; and Rome Kanda, who will host the actual game show challenges.
ADVERTISEMENT
I Survived a Japanese Game Show will premiere Tuesday, June 24 at 9PM ET/PT.
The 10 Americans competing on I Survived a Japanese Game Show -- as well as their ABC-supplied bios -- are:
Mary Greenawalt, a 23-year-old gym membership sales rep from Matthews, NC
With her bright red hair and devil-may-care attitude, Mary is the epitome of a fireball. Admittedly vain, this vixen has a healthy love of herself and a low opinion of others. She's incredibly silly and relies on her pixieish charm to get by, and even gets paid for being a "party motivator" -- a job tailor made for this wild child.
Andrew Kelly-Hayes, a 28-year-old radio sales consultant from Boston, MA
With his hilarious stories and off-the-wall energy, this flip flop-wearing funnyman could be a long-lost Belushi brother. Whether he's schmoozing old ladies at Bingo, harassing strangers while on "Smile Patrol" or joining his college cheerleading team to meet hot girls, Andrew has a reputation for being a nut.
Belinda Mason, a 38-year-old veterinarian from Charlotte, NC
This independent, career focused woman is a feisty veterinarian who puts making money and friends before any romantic relationships. Belinda's confidence is evident in her vivacious and spunky -- yet poised -- persona.
Cathy Nardone, a 21-year-old affiliate manager from Staten Island, NY
Happily born and raised in Staten Island, New York, Cathy is "Staten Island for life" with no plans or desires to ever leave. This brutally honest tough chick has a mouth like a sailor and will "swear to God" she's not to be messed with in the slightest.
Darcy Sletager, a 31-year-old photo editor from Sandpoint, ID
This small town, single mom is in desperate need of an escape from her lackluster life of the cubicles and from the dating scene of Sandpoint, Idaho. Always putting her kids first, Darcy feels it's time to take herself off the back burner and get back to the fiery blonde she used to be.
Donnell Pitman, a 32-year-old real estate appraiser from Chicago, IL
Although Donnell is usually loud and energetic, this "All American" dad is struggling to provide for his family and fulfill his shattered dreams of playing pro football. Donnell has competition coursing through his veins and would love the opportunity to prove to his family that he can be greater than what they've seen so far.
Justin Wood, a 24-year-old financial representative from Trussville, AL
Charming and good looking, Justin describes himself as a "divine, fine and genuine-grade-A piece of southern beast." A true southern gentleman, complete with the "twang," Justin is a fish-loving, hunting, girl-chasing guru at heart.
Meaghan Cooper, a 22-year-old bartender from San Antonio, TX
Despite being born and raised in San Antonio, Meaghan is the spitting image of a blonde California Valley girl. Hot, ditzy and free-spirited, she uses her sex appeal to her advantage in both her work and personal life. And, of course, she loves to be the center of attention.
Olga Medvedev, a 26-year-old waitress from Medford, MA
Olga's "don't-mess-with-me attitude" comes off quite abrasive, if you're not ready for it, but who can blame her, coming from a Russian family with eight brothers? Not easily forgotten, this opinionated waitress is hilarious and comical with her "tell it like it is" way of life.
Ben Hughes, a 44-year-old from Punxsutawney, PA who serves as Punxsutawney Phil's handler
He's lovable, he's comical, admittedly in the midst of a mid-life crisis, and he's the official handler of Punxsutawney Phil, the ground hog. Who wouldn't fall in love with this modest, cheerful and quirky character?
About The Author: Christopher Rocchio