Who Wants to Be a Millionaire (2020)

Why Watch
"Jimmy Kimmel revitalizes the iconic hot seat with high-stakes celebrity trivia, delivering razor-sharp tension and massive charitable payouts."
Tone: Suspenseful, Sharp, High-Stakes Trivia
Where to Watch
JustWatch Streaming details by: JustWatch
AI Critic Analysis
Series Deep Dive:

Host Jimmy Kimmel brings modern comedic flair to Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, reinvigorating the classic quiz show format on ABC. Pairing prominent celebrities alongside sharp civilian contestants, the revival amplifies tension with updated lifelines and multimillion-dollar charity stakes. It remains an irresistible display of general knowledge and nerve-racking pacing, proving that the original hot-seat concept endures as one of television's ultimate, addictive battlegrounds of intellect.

Analysis Refined:March 2026
Scheduled next refinement: in 239 days
Season: 5
Watched? # Air Date Episode Name
E1 Jul 22, 2026 In The Hot Seat: Larry David & Cazzie David; Ben Affleck & Jamie Ding
E2 Jul 29, 2026 In The Hot Seat: Ben Affleck & Jamie Ding; Jason Alexander & Wayne Knight; Tig Notaro & Pete Holmes
E3 Aug 05, 2026 In The Hot Seat: Brad Paisley & Clayton Kershaw; Michael Kosta & Wendi McLendon-Covey
E4 Aug 12, 2026 In The Hot Seat: Jesse Eisenberg & Paul Giamatti; Krysten Ritter & Sarah Shahi
E5 Aug 19, 2026 In The Hot Seat: Paul Scheer & Rob Huebel; Awkwafina & Paul Feig
E6 Oct 07, 2026 In The Hot Seat: Michael Keaton & Jon Lovett; Will Forte & Taran Killam
E7 Oct 14, 2026 In the Hot Seat: Billy Porter & Leslie Odom Jr.; Timothy Simons & Jackie Tohn
E8 Oct 28, 2026 TBA
Mark Season 5:
Watched / Unwatched
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Scheduling Insights - Seasonal Series

Release Window: Summer

Who Wants to Be a Millionaire (2020) has maintained a steady periodic rhythm for six years, typically returning in July. Following its high-profile revival during the pandemic, the series served as a vital bridge for ABC during production shutdowns. While the initial seasons followed a condensed schedule across spring and fall, the show recently transitioned into a summer tentpole format. This shift reflects its utility as a flexible program that the network utilizes to bolster ratings during traditional television off-seasons or to celebrate significant milestones for the iconic franchise.

The historical trajectory of this iteration demonstrates its status as a reliable utility player for the network. After a multi-year hiatus following its second season, the program's return in the summer of 2024 confirmed its longevity. By utilizing celebrity contestants and high-stakes gameplay, the show draws consistent viewership regardless of the specific broadcast window. Its ability to pivot between different seasonal slots allows ABC to maintain brand presence without the pressure of a strict annual production cycle, ensuring the format remains fresh for audiences.

Oracle Insights Refined:March 2026
Scheduled next refinement: in 136 days

If you liked Who Wants to Be a Millionaire (2020):

Technical Details
Network: ABC (US)
Seasons: 21
Years: 2020 - 2026
Genre: Game Show
Rating: TV-14
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Frequently Asked Questions

The series typically premieres as a mid-season or summer replacement on ABC rather than following a strict fall schedule. Recent seasons have debuted in months like January, April, or July to serve as a high-profile bridge between scripted programming cycles.

As of July 1, 2026, ABC has not yet officially confirmed the renewal for the upcoming broadcast cycle, though the show remains a consistent performer in the network's unscripted lineup. Renewal announcements for this series are often made close to the network's upfront presentations or shortly after the conclusion of the summer season.

A standard season of the 2020 revival usually consists of 8 to 10 episodes. This limited episode count allows the series to run as a special television event, often featuring celebrity contestants playing for charitable causes.

Jimmy Kimmel has served as the host and executive producer of the series since it was revived in 2020. His tenure has introduced a more conversational tone to the show, including the unique Ask the Host lifeline.

Episodes are generally available for streaming on Hulu the day after they air on ABC. Additionally, viewers can access recent seasons through the ABC website or mobile app with a verified television provider login.

While the 2020 revival initially launched with celebrity contestants playing for charity, later seasons have incorporated a mix of celebrities and frontline heroes or regular contestants. The format often allows contestants to bring a guest to help them navigate the first ten questions of the game.
FAQ Refined:March 2026
Scheduled next refinement: in 258 days