Ben Stein’s Money was a unique comedy quiz show that combined knowledge with humor. Unlike more serious trivia shows like Jeopardy, Ben Stein’s Money didn’t take itself too seriously. Hosted by the monotone Ben Stein, known for his roles in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” and “The Wonder Years,” and featuring a comedic sidekick in Jimmy Kimmel, the show offered a refreshing take on the quiz show format.
The dynamic between Stein and Kimmel was a core element of the show’s humor. Kimmel’s quick wit and often rude jokes played well against Stein’s dry delivery and deadpan persona. While Kimmel occasionally pushed the boundaries of good taste, the interplay between the two hosts created a likeable and entertaining atmosphere. The show often featured special themed episodes, adding another layer of variety to the format. One memorable quirk was the “dunce cap” rule: contestants who answered in the form of a question, Jeopardy-style, were forced to wear the humiliating headwear.
The central premise of Ben Stein’s Money was a battle of wits for a $5,000 prize. Stein himself competed against the contestants, attempting to prevent them from winning his money. Although the exact financial details were sometimes obscured by fine print disclaimers at the end of the show, the core concept remained consistent.
The show began with three contestants choosing from five humorously titled categories. Correct answers earned dollar amounts, with a $50 bonus question attached to each in the first round. At the end of the first round, the lowest-scoring contestant was eliminated and replaced by none other than Ben Stein himself. The second round culminated in the highest-scoring contestant facing off against Stein in the “Best of Ten Test of Knowledge.” This final round isolated the contestant and Stein in separate booths, highlighting the comedic contrast between a spartan booth for the contestant and a luxurious one for Stein. If the contestant outscored Stein on the ten questions, they won the entire $5,000.
Ben Stein’s Money aired on Comedy Central twice nightly, Monday through Friday, offering viewers a consistent dose of laughter and trivia.
