$450,000 to winners? Everything about Shaquille O’Neal-hosted TV show that flat-lined
ABC has stepped in to pay for the Shaquille O'Neal and Gina Rodriguez-hosted show 'Lucky 13' after the sudden cancellation.
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Shaquille O'Neal's Lucky 13 has shut down
After facing the risk of losing the beloved Inside the NBA, Shaquille O’Neal has to now shut down another one of his shows. The Lakers legend was hosting the show ‘Lucky 13‘ along with Gina Rodriguez. But due to the sudden shutdown, ABC has stepped in to pay for the winnings of the contestants. Along with the contestants, the production reportedly has not paid the hosts as well.
Shaquille O’Neal and his host were also the executive producers of the show. The show started in July of last year. The contestants had to guess how many true or false questions they would get right from thirteen. Based on the accuracy of their predictions, contestants would receive prize money. The cash win ranged from $3,750 to $125,000.
In exchange for a portion of ABC’s product placement and advertising, Lucky 13 was funded by UK producer Studio 1. But the earnings of the show were below expectations. Hence, the show was not continued for the next season. Studio 1 declared bankruptcy which might lead to hosts and executive producers O’Neal and Rodriguez to pay at least $500,000.
EXCLUSIVE: In a highly unusual situation, ABC is preparing to foot a bill worth more than $460,000 to ensure that contestants on game show 'Lucky 13' receive the winnings they are owed
— Deadline (@DEADLINE) February 5, 2025
https://t.co/VrqXrYL2SG
Studio 1 was expected to pay the prizing of the winners, but the UK production could not fulfil the promised reward. Deadline reported the financial conflict. Considering the final episode aired on September 19, the production has already passed the 120-day mark of awarding the prize money. Despite ABC not being under any legal obligation, the network is set to pay $460,000 to the prize winners.
Shaquille O’Neal gave gifts to the ‘Lucky 13’ audience
Shaquille O’Neal is known to be the most dominant player in NBA history. Along with that, the legendary center has also created a reputation of being a wonderful human being. Shaq always uses his fame and privilege the right way by helping the ones in need. The motive behind starting ‘Lucky 13’ was also support people financially by playing games.
Shaq’s co-host, Gina Rodriguez also ‘fell in love’ with the Lakers legend. On Jimmy Kimmel Live, the actress sang high praise of O’Neal and his unique relationship with her son. But according to Collider she also revealed a heartwarming behind-the-scenes story from the show. Keeping the prize money aside, the 7’1″ would buy gifts for the present audience as well.
Every day, he would get something for the audience, literally, he’d gift iPads or food and tell the audience it was from both of us knowing I didn’t have anything to do with it.
Gina Rodriguez told Collider
The actress called the show a ‘dream’ gig. It is unfortunate that the executive producers-hosts duo have to say goodbye to the show. The pair was certainly emotionally involved in the making of something beneficiary for others. O’Neal and Rodrigues also established a personal relationship with each other.
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Satvika Deshpande
(442 Articles Published)