Beauties Bring Brains To 'Pyramid'
The popular game show "Pyramid," which premiered 30 years ago on CBS, is all about making it to the winner's circle and the $25,000 prize.
The show usually pairs a contestant with a celebrity. But next week, the show takes a different twist. Six former Miss Americas will compete against six current state titleholders. All the money will go to the Miss America scholarship fund to help contestants further their educations.
So, when The Saturday Early Show's co-anchor Gretchen Carlson, Miss America 1989, got the call to compete, she couldn't resist.
It's hip, cool and a lot of fun to play. It's "Pyramid" - 2003 style. For every game, contestants begin behind a desk giving clues to their partner. And if they're lucky enough to win the first round, they end up in the winner's circle for a chance at $25,000. But it isn't as easy as it looks.
In a practice round, Carlson was having a little trouble, but she was able to pick up on the rules.
Early in the morning, the show's producers give the contestants a crash course on the game.
"You rehearse categories like 'things there are only one of a kind in the whole wide world,'" Carlson said. "Among the answers? Donny Osmond."
Osmond is the host of the new "Pyramid," and it was his idea to have a "Miss America Week." He hosted the Miss America Pageant in 2000 and 2001.
"I just think it's very intriguing to see the competitive attitude that these women have because you have to have that to be in that position to become Miss America anyway," Osmond said.
Osmond's office holds the key to winning the competition. It's where he keeps the blue cards with the top secret clues.
"They told me when I first started the show that if I ever showed the contestants and/or celebrities these cards, it'd be a $10,000 fine and imprisonment," he said.
And, of course, Carlson didn't get a sneak look at the cards. But, she did get a peak at Osmond's wardrobe.
"I always wear a suit because it kind of makes me look smarter than I am," Osmond joked.
Some would think the host would have some words of wisdom for those who've never played the game.
"Here's the advice I'm going to give you," Osmond laughed. "Be good."
Contestants have to be good and also pay extra close attention to the producers and the rules of the game.
"I think we're all competitive in this group," Miss America 2002 Katie Harman said. "We're all perfectionists that want to make sure that we say the right words and do the right things."
"I think I felt more prepared for Miss America than I feel for this game show," Miss America 2000 Heather French Henry said.
When the preparation and practice time were over, it was time to play.
Not everyone makes it to the winner's circle. Carlson did, but was she able to help her partner win the big prize? Audiences will have to watch the special episode this Friday, September 19 to see if her team made it all the way.
"Pyramid" is nationally syndicated, so check your local listings to find out when the show airs in your area.