Malcolm (game show)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Malcolm was a game show pilot hosted by Alex Trebek in 1983.
In the game, Trebek is assisted by a co-host named "Malcolm" -- a crudely drawn, bald, animated character. He appears in a monitor on a pedestal next to Trebek.
[edit] Game Play
Three contestants competed in this game. The three are asked a two-part question, and the first two contestants to buzz in are given an opportunity to answer the question. The first contestant to buzz in must give the first part of the question, the other the second. Each earns 10 points for a correct answer.
If either player is incorrect, the third player plays a question with "Malcolm." "Malcolm" may give either the first or second answer, but always goes first, and is always correct. Thus, the contestant has to provide the other part to earn the 10 points.
The first player to reach 50 points wins the game. The game is played using "Malcolm's Rule" -- where the "partner" of the contestant who helped the winner would automatically come back for the next game.
[edit] Bonus Round
A bonus round is played for up to 8 prizes. The contestant is shown a board of 8 categories and has to answer two questions to claim a prize associated with the category. As in the main game, a contestant must answer one part of a two-part question -- with "Malcolm" providing the other part. Several categories contain "junk" prizes - the top prize on the board is $10,000 cash, but it may not be claimed as the first prize.
After the first question in a category is answered correctly, the prize up for grabs is revealed. This allows players to move on to different categories if they wish to try for different prizes. The bonus round ends when either the $10,000 is claimed, or 90 seconds has expired. Contestants win any prizes claimed.
[edit] Trivia
- The show was produced by Merrill Heatter, who also co-executive produced Hollywood Squares and High Rollers -- the latter also hosted by Alex Trebek.
- The pilot episode of this show exists in game show trading circles.
- "Malcolm" was voiced by Bob Stone.
