Jeff Foxworthy garners biggest hit ever for GSN with ‘American Bible Challenge’
GSN hit a jackpot with a game show about the world’s most popular book the Bible hosted by the family-friendly Alpharetta stand-up Jeff Foxworthy. The result: the network’s most popular show in its 17-year history by a huge margin.
On Thursday, “American Bible Challenge” drew 1.7 million viewers, obliterating the previous record by a half million – the March 2003 documentary “Big Bucks: The Press Your Luck Scandal.”
“The best-selling book of all time is now GSN’s most viewed program of all time, which proves that consumers are yearning for fun, family- friendly entertainment,” said Amy Introcaso-Davis, Executive Vice President of Programming and Development, GSN, in a press release. “We are incredibly proud of this show and are happy that it connected with so many viewers.”
Never under-estimate the appeal of Foxworthy, a man who walks the walk when it comes to the Bible and found his game-show chops a few years ago with Fox’s “Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?” (See my story from a few days ago.)
“American Bible Challenge” features three trios, who are seeking to win $20,000 for their selected charity. They then have a shot at $100,000 in the finale. The questions are related to the Bible but are created to be entertaining, even if you aren’t intimately familiar with the book. And Foxworthy adds a level of comfort and humor that is light, but not disrespectful of the contestants or the topics at hand.
GSN commissioned just 10 episodes for the first season, which is very modest for a game show. But if the show even holds half that number in coming weeks, GSN may have a relative hit for many years to come.
Join my Facebook fan page and Twitter.
By Rodney Ho, Radio & TV Talk
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124 comments Add your comment
double
August 25th, 2012
8:16 pm
You do know that Moses was a basket case.
Festus
August 25th, 2012
8:27 pm
Watched about 5 minutes and was bored. At least there were no tasteless questions like: Who did Cain and Able take to the prom? Like and admire Jeff Foxworthy. At least he believes in something. I don’t believe in anything. Both science and religion are fairy tales. Science tells us that 13.75 billion years ago you, I, Paris Hilton, and the planet Jupiter occupied the same point in space and time. Absolutely nothing in the Bible is dumber than that.
PrezObozo
August 25th, 2012
8:35 pm
الموت لجميع الملحدين. قد تحترق في الجحيم
Lou
August 25th, 2012
8:36 pm
Rodney, what is GSN? I thought it was basic Journalism 101 to learn to spell out initials of organizations on first reference. I’m not being picky, as I just really want to know what the initials of this network (?) GSN is. I enjoyed your mini-article on Jeff Foxworthy. Thank you.
Lou
August 25th, 2012
8:38 pm
Correction: initials ARE ( not is) Basic journalism applies to me, too: PROOFREAD.
Dennis
August 25th, 2012
9:21 pm
Marc hit the bulls eye and did it with out the insecurities of Pagan Man and Waldo Pepper.
Rick in Macon
August 25th, 2012
9:34 pm
I’m guessing there’s a number of posters here that will spend eternity in h*ll. I’m guessing they’re probably homosexual as well.
me retired
August 25th, 2012
10:43 pm
I loved the show. I’m a christian and really appreate
I LOVED the show. I am a christian and really appreciate having a show about the Bible. Since the Bible is the main book in my life as it is in the lives of millions of people in this country. It’s nice to finally have a program that focuses on Christian beliefs. Those that do not like it, don’t watch it! There’s no need to condemn the people who do believe in the Bible and enjoy the program.
Rodney Ho
August 25th, 2012
11:07 pm
@Lou. Many networks do not go by anything more than their acronym. Examples: A&E, TLC and HLN. They are no longer Arts & Entertainment, the Learning Channel and Headline News, respectively. They merely are acronyms so they can do whatever they want and are not tied down by their original names. That’s the case with GSN, which used to be known as Game Show Network.
Grace
August 25th, 2012
11:50 pm
@Vir…..I’m sorry to hear that.
Saintmarks
August 26th, 2012
12:11 am
I have to wonder about the mental state of people that have to come on anything to do with Christianity and start their atheistic babble. Why be so vociferous? What has made you so angry?
The Christian community in which I was raised is proof enough of God. The love, care, moral standards, work ethic, fairness, kindness and wisdom I have seen in so many, many people that have shaped my life… from my parents and grandparents, to pastors, church members, the elders in my life… the village that raised me. Time and time again, the love of God has been expressed thru me in so many places in my life, no matter where I have gone or what I have been occupied with… this believers have made my life better, their testimony of God’s love and faith has made him real, more real than anything I can touch or feel or hold in my hand.
Grateful for the lives of Christians I know and the loving Christ they prove is alive and real.
Jake
August 26th, 2012
1:19 am
God is good – from a former atheist.
Matthew Shardlake
August 26th, 2012
1:37 am
PaganMan: How enlightened. No one ever thought of that before. You dolt.
Luke 17
August 26th, 2012
2:05 am
Luke 17:30-34
Luke 18:27
Virginia Highlands Boy
August 26th, 2012
7:08 am
Religion is nothing more than a business. Possibly the biggest business on earth. A business that sells one product and engages in the most deceptive business practices imaginable. If religion was held to the same standards as real businesses most of the people who run it would be in prison for fraud and theft and a litany of other offenses. And most followers would be moaning over the fact they had gotten hornswaggled into joining a huge ponzi scam. Whenever I see a business that touts its religious values, I RUN LIKE THE WIND IN THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION because you can be guaranteed they’ll most likely try to cheat you.
Most religious people simply need something to be able to blame for their own actions.
“I hate the gays” – because my bible tells me it’s wrong
“I have several illegitimate children” – because my bible tells me to be fruitful and multiply
“I cheat my customers” – so I can give more money to the church as my bible tells me to
and on, and on, and on…………………………..
Donna P.
August 26th, 2012
7:09 am
Sorry some of you are not Christians. Too bad for you. I haven’t seen this show but my favorite GSN show is Baggage hosted by Jerry Springer. Too funny!
Jim
August 26th, 2012
8:35 am
Gosh, why all the hate? My only reason for commenting is that there was a story about the most watched show in Game Show Network history! Really? Bigger than Match Game re-runs?
Joan Adams
August 26th, 2012
8:40 am
God is love and all of us need Him every time we take a breath. Thanks be to God.
Name (required)
August 26th, 2012
8:56 am
For crying out loud, people. The bible is not to be taken LITERALLY! It was written 2000 years ago as a collection of fables and parables on how one might strive to live their life. Do you REALLY think that people honestly believe that the ENTIRE world FLOODED? Or that a guy was swallowed by a whale, lived in its gut, and walked out alive a few days later? I know you get off on being all high-and-mighty about the bible being a bunch of bunk and all, but really most of us are keenly aware that most of the bible is not to be taken s 100% literal.
Believer
August 26th, 2012
10:02 am
I watched it and liked it! Surprised at the number of questions I missed or got wrong…which means I need to spend more time in my Bible
To ALL: Believers and non:( …have a BLESSED day!
RDC
August 26th, 2012
10:38 am
Several years ago Harvard Univ. conducted a study on the average IQ of the main religions. I found it to be very interesting. Muslim 92 Christian 98 Pagan 98 Hindu 104 Buddhist 108 Jew 115 Agnostic-Atheist 119
Diane
August 26th, 2012
11:06 am
Too bad that this show is being used to measure how righteous a person and their belief is. All that energy being expended to try to force one’s belief on others or denigrate another person’s belief, which could be used to simply live according to your own beliefs, making the most of your life, and making the world a better place.
While thinking along those lines, it occurs to me that it would be a hysterically funny twist on this show for a non-Christian group go on to win funds for THEIR favorite charity; (Note – this may be shocking to some, but scholars of the Bible need not be believers of the same)…..
You know, it could be something like Atheists going on to win $$$ for the Atheist Alliance; or Jewish people for the B’nai Brith… or Buddhists for the American Buddhist Congress….something along those lines. Knowledge is knowledge; and the outcome of this show would reflect the multifaceted composition that America is in this day and age, like it or not, while rewarding knowledge, rather than being a contest on who is a better believer, which is something only the person and his/her Creator truly knows (or in the case of an atheist, perhaps the level of dis-belief, which is something only he/she knows?) Might even garner some cross-religious understanding and respect.
The end result would be an increase in knowledge of the Bible by contestants and viewers, which, whether or not you believe its contents, has influenced a lot of human history, and has a strong influence on world events and individual human interaction, good AND bad, in this day and age as well.
Oh, well, a girl can daydream of peaceful coexistence, can’t she??
Virginia Highlands Boy
August 26th, 2012
11:17 am
Said above: “For crying out loud, people. The bible is not to be taken LITERALLY!”
Yes, some of us know that. Try telling all the religious loonies though. Of course they claim it’s the word of god and to be followed word for word, but they all pick and choose exactly what parts they’re willing to follow. That absolves them of any guilt because they can say “I followed everything I read in the bible word for word”. OK, let’s talk about the things you “claim” you didn’t read. Hmmmmmm?
buckhead benny
August 26th, 2012
12:20 pm
There’s no Atheists in foxholes- They all pray and hope to go to heaven fyi when they are on their death bed or someone they love is…
You can’t prove there isn’t a god either- and that is the problem with Atheists arguments- When you think about all of the planets that we can’t even see or have no idea because our human technology can’t go that far it makes me feel that there is a dynamic that you can’t explain that is too far above our heads to understand.
So after you die you just time out and then that’s it? That’s a horrible thing to look forward to in the world of Atheism in my opinion- Problem with that is what a risk since you really don’t know if there is a heaven to take such a chance.
Mark my word- Atheists front for attention- when they need help or in a foxhole they are on their needs praying for the best.. you can bet your bottom dollar on that. There just not in a foxhole yet.
Patty
August 26th, 2012
12:32 pm
Virginia Highlands Boy–everyone who says they’re ‘Christian’ doesn’t have a relationship with Christ. There is a difference. Christians realize we’re not perfect–we make horrible mistakes just like everyone else. And sin, no matter how big or small, is still sin.
I hurt that you have had such bad experiences with so-called ‘Christians’ that you can’t open your heart to the possibilities of God. Sometimes, we’re our own worst enemies.
Renea
August 26th, 2012
12:38 pm
I was so happy to see a good Bible based game on a cable channel. This show really helps challenge my knowledge of the Bible,
Thank you so much.
chram
August 26th, 2012
12:44 pm
Re: I have to wonder about the mental state of people that have to come on anything to do with Christianity and start their atheistic babble. Why be so vociferous? What has made you so angry?
The Christian community in which I was raised is proof enough of God. The love, care, moral standards, work ethic, fairness, kindness and wisdom I have seen in so many, many people that have shaped my life…
Jesus take me now. If religions would stop molesting children, causing wars, preventing equality, and started paying their fair share of taxes then we might be less angry hearing about about your “love, care, moral standards, fairness, kindness, and wisdom”.
Patty
August 26th, 2012
1:54 pm
‘Jesus take me now. If religions would stop molesting children, causing wars, preventing equality, and started paying their fair share of taxes then we might be less angry hearing about about your “love, care, moral standards, fairness, kindness, and wisdom.’
It’s people who do that–blaming it on God is just another way of not taking responsibility for our choices.
Bambi lover
August 26th, 2012
2:25 pm
Jeff Foxworthy is a big time hunter, which one would think conflicts with biblical teachings. But it apparently doesn’t. Barbaric killing for fun is celebrated at some churches and practiced by people who consider themselves good Christians.
Here’s a question for the show: A frightened animal is running for its life at 20 miles per hour, before being killed by a bullet travelling at 1,500+ miles an hour. Which bible passage or passages allows for this blood SPORT? Dominion? Oh come now.
Donna P.
August 26th, 2012
2:36 pm
Do those who hate Christians, do you also hate Jews, Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, etc.? Or only Christians? Do you celebrate Easter and Christmas? I was just wondering since there is so much hate being posted today.
chram
August 26th, 2012
2:42 pm
Donna, Why would freethinkers celebrate Easter and Christmas? Do you celebrate Ramadan? Just wondering.
Donna P.
August 26th, 2012
2:44 pm
No Chram, I don’t celebrate Ramadan; I’m not a Muslim. I was wondering if those hating on Christians celebrate Easter and/or Christmas. Do you put up a Christmas tree, buy Christmas presents, etc.?
Highlander
August 26th, 2012
2:45 pm
I have no problem with Jeff Foxworthy (or any other comedian) being ‘vulgar’ or using ‘profanity’ in their profession.
Contrary to what many believe, the Commandments don’t say anything about the use of profanity or obscene language. Those concepts can change from generation to generation. Although many believe “Thou shalt not swear” is one of the Commandments, (..eeer, wrong, but thanks for playing), it ain’t!
For all those who claim to be atheists, as someone else said long ago, you better hope you’re right!
J L Morris
August 26th, 2012
3:07 pm
“Who are you to recite my laws or to take My covenants on your lips? You hate my instruction and when you’ve used My Words for your own advantage, you throw them behind you.”
“When you see someone stealing, you are pleased with him and you throw in with adulterers. You use your words for evil and harness your tongue to deceit.”
“My Name is often on your lips but your heart is far from Me.”
chram
August 26th, 2012
3:13 pm
Donna, I used to believe in Santa Claus, but grew out of that. As for the holidays that the Christians stole from the pagans and have commercialized, no I do not. As for putting up a holiday bush or exchanging some gifts during the holidays, yes I do. We are a pluralistic society and hopefully one day we can all respect those that respect others.
melissa barron
August 26th, 2012
3:14 pm
What a breath of fresh air. I LOVE this show. I sure hope it stays around longer than 10 episodes. Jeff Foxworthy is AWESOME!!!!!!
liberalefty
August 26th, 2012
3:20 pm
i cant believe in any invisible non speaking gods that nobody ever seen or even talked too. and why dont god ever talk? people believe out of fear not out of any love for mankind. christians used the bible to enslave a whole race of people…as a black man i definitely dont worship an evil god who condones this.christianity,judiasm,islam are all just silly superstitions made up to control the gulliable
liberalefty
August 26th, 2012
3:21 pm
why do the most fervernt christians hate OBAMA,muslims,gays etc…but love going to war?
liberalefty
August 26th, 2012
3:22 pm
the kkk is a christian organization
Donna P.
August 26th, 2012
3:25 pm
Chram, why do you put up a Christmas tree and exchange gifts on December 25? That is the one day Christians proclaim to celebrate Jesus’ birthday. Why as an intelligent free thinker do you do that? You can exchange presents on any other day of the year since you are so anti-Christian.
Virginia Highlands Boy
August 26th, 2012
3:25 pm
Said by Buckhead Benny: “You can’t prove there isn’t a god either”
No atheist I know (including myself) is interested in proving god doesn’t exist. We simply don’t believe he does. If someone else wants to believe he exists, wonderful. That’s their lot in life, not ours.
Donna P.
August 26th, 2012
3:26 pm
Liberalefy, why do Muslims hate Christians and gays? And the KKK is a Democratic organization.
chram
August 26th, 2012
3:44 pm
Donna, Good question and one I thought you might ask and one I have some issues with. Of course to begin with it started with Santa Claus as a kid. But then after learning about the history of where Christmas came from (pagan holidays, winter solstice celebrations, etc.), I realized I could still share gifts and put up a “holiday bush” (lights for the darkness of winter) without being hypocritical or supporting the Christian agenda itself.
liberalefty
August 26th, 2012
4:04 pm
@donna p
so what it was started by racist CHRISTIAN conservatives who happened to be democrats…what has that got to do with anything…you must be a rabid conservative who hates OBAMA because hes {pick one} black,muslim,radical socialist, communist…i dont give a flip about the muslims and their invisible god either…
liberalefty
August 26th, 2012
4:05 pm
THERE are atheists in the foxhole…just because a person prays is no proof of gods existence..
liberalefty
August 26th, 2012
4:12 pm
why do whites have a pic of some white dude and says thatsthe mythical jesus…lol…the bible describes the mythical jesus as having wooly hair and bronze skin…it wouldnt be because white christians would never bow down to a black man is it?..yep thats it… in order to spread white supremacy they had to have a white jesus to make colored people bow down to. bowing dowing to a white jesus is really bowing down to white people in general.. ..why dont white churches have a pc of a black jesus? duh its because hes black thats why…i’ve noticed the most fervernt christians hate OBAMA too…could that be a coincidence?
Not an Atheist
August 26th, 2012
4:17 pm
John and a couple other atheistic mentality minds……you are the doubting Thomas of modern life. You can only believe in something you have personoal proof or evidence.. I will break it down for you…anything you believe about the meaning of your life is just imaginary on your part. You are no different than a broccoli. You are nothing more than a life form consuming resources until your life cycle ends. It is no more likely or unlikely there is a god than life spontaneously erupted by way of random intereactions of the cosmos. On an even more simplistic level you are no different than a wildfire in the woods. You consume fuel, give of some heat, and move by force of physics and the elements until you run out of fuel or energy at some level until you are diminished and finally are extinguished. Your ability to consciously choose is meaningless. You are still just a series of chemical reactions, no different than that wildfire. It doesn’t matter that you chose your actions and the wildfire has no choice. It is just chemistry of fuel, heat and oxygen….and in the end, you are nothing more than the ashes and dust similar to what a fire leaves behind.
So yes, I choose to believe in a higher power. No different than your choice not to believe. Your source of morality and reason and purpose are just as imaginary as mine. Mine are just wrapped in a different package.
PahtNate
August 26th, 2012
4:43 pm
I think a lot of people in this day of politically correctness and everyone being offended all the time have lost their sense of humor.
Maria
August 26th, 2012
4:45 pm
Liberalefty-did you fail basic grammar?
JIM & CLARA PICKEL
August 26th, 2012
5:23 pm
Just to thank you for a show that is way over due! What a bright light for TV that is so full of more filth then we ever thought possible; PLEASE keep up the good work!
Jim & Clara