"Wordle," the internet's most popular word game, could be coming off smartphone screens and onto TV soon. NBC is said to be in the process of creating a "Wordle" game show based on the pandemic-era viral brain teaser, and Jimmy Fallon will host the show.
NBC Plans 'Wordle' Game Show with Jimmy Fallon and Savannah Guthrie
According to Deadline, Jimmy Fallon is making the new TV series adaptation with his Electric Hot Dog production firm, while "Today" host Savannah Guthrie will host the show. The pilot, which is being shot in the United Kingdom, is being produced in association with Universal Television Alternative Studio.
Although NBC has not yet announced the full launch of the show, sources report that the project is being touted as an interactive family competition that keeps the tone of the original puzzle but translates it for a television viewer.
'Wordle' Became Viral During Pandemic
Developed in 2021 by computer programmer Josh Wardle, "Wordle" became an overnight cultural sensation during the pandemic. Players worldwide battled daily to solve a five-letter word in six attempts, aided by the game's ubiquitous green and yellow squares.
Its straightforward but habit-forming appearance made it an internet phenomenon, with millions posting their findings across social media. The New York Times bought "Wordle" in January 2022 for a seven-figure contract, folding it into its well-liked games section.
The outlet shared that the game was played 5.3 billion times during 2024 alone, demonstrating its enduring popularity.
Fallon's Link to Wordle's Television Potential
Jimmy Fallon's participation is not completely unexpected. Earlier in 2022, he showcased a live "Wordle" segment on "The Tonight Show," playing with The Roots' Questlove. The piece provided viewers with a glimpse of how the puzzle could be turned into an entertaining on-screen experience, mixing up comedy, strategy, and competition.
If greenlighted for a complete series, the "Wordle" television show would become part of Fallon's expanding catalog of NBC productions, such as the "Password" revamp hosted by Keke Palmer, "That's My Jam," and "On Brand," a business reality show.
Savannah Guthrie Steals the Spotlight
Host Savannah Guthrie, a familiar face on NBC's "Today" for over a decade, brings both charisma and credibility to the project. Beyond her morning show duties, Guthrie has appeared as NBC's chief legal analyst and even made a cameo as herself on the comedy series "30 Rock."
