In an exciting twist for fans of both Matt Damon and Jimmy Kimmel, the two Hollywood heavyweights will finally share the stage on the beloved game show “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.” The highly anticipated fourth season of the show is set to premiere on Wednesday, July 23, and promises to deliver a mix of fun, competition, and charity.
In an exclusive first look shared by Us Weekly, Kimmel, who hosts the show, expressed his enthusiasm for the return of the trivia classic. “Millionaire is back!” he declared, setting the tone for what viewers can expect from the new season. Damon, known for his impressive film career and charming personality, will be teaming up with legendary “Jeopardy!” host Ken Jennings to tackle the challenging questions and compete for a grand prize of $1 million, all for a charitable cause.
The playful rivalry between Kimmel and Damon has been a long-standing joke dating back to 2005 when Kimmel humorously apologized to Damon for “running out of time” for him on his late-night talk show. This ongoing banter has kept fans entertained, and now, their dynamic will unfold in a new setting as they face off in the game show arena.
In the clip, Jennings sits between Kimmel and Damon, playfully asking, “Do we love Matt Damon or what?” to which Kimmel quickly retorts, “I’m coming on Jeopardy! with someone you hate!” This lighthearted exchange underscores the camaraderie and competitive spirit that has defined their relationship over the years.
But Damon and Jennings aren’t the only celebrity duo making waves this season. The lineup features an impressive roster of stars, each paired with a partner to tackle the trivia challenges. Among them are Joe Buck and Oliver Hudson, Helen Hunt and Dan Bucatinsky, and Kal Penn and Jameela Jamil. The show will also showcase some heartwarming reunions, including “Community” alumni Joel McHale and Jim Rash, as well as “The Office” stars Kate Flannery and Oscar Nuñez.
The revamped celebrity edition of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire” has proven to be a hit since its return in 2019, with Kimmel at the helm. The show’s format has shifted from featuring everyday contestants to spotlighting well-known figures, adding an extra layer of excitement for fans. While the celebrity version has only awarded the million-dollar prize twice, the stakes have never been higher, and the competition is expected to be fierce.
The original “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire,” hosted by the late Regis Philbin, captivated audiences with its unique format, where contestants answered increasingly difficult questions to win life-changing sums of money. The revival has maintained the essence of the original while infusing it with a fresh celebrity twist, making it a must-watch for fans of all ages.
As the premiere date approaches, anticipation is building for what promises to be a thrilling season filled with laughter, competition, and perhaps even a few surprises. With Kimmel and Damon sharing the stage, viewers can expect a delightful blend of wit and charm that has made both stars household names.
Mark your calendars for July 23 at 8 p.m. ET, when “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire” returns to ABC, bringing with it a new wave of excitement and entertainment for fans across the nation. Whether you’re tuning in for the trivia, the celebrity antics, or the opportunity to support charitable causes, this season is shaping up to be one for the books.