March 08, 2001

For the first time, a local variety show will offer Toto-crazy Singaporeans $1 million as its highest prize. Are you ready to win?

(Click on pictures for larger image)

Expect the streets to be deserted come April 18, 2001.

That is when Singaporeans young and old will crowd around their TV sets to catch the local version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire. It will be aired every Wednesday and Thursday on Channel 5.

The game show had previously clocked a staggering viewership of almost 20 million in the UK. In addition, it has also received the same overwhelming number of phone calls from enthusiastic participants.

And it is topping ratings charts in over 65 countries and in 49 different languages, creating a worldwide phenomenon.

Come next month, it will be the first in Singapore to offer local audience a cool $1 million in cold, hard cash as a possible top prize.

Hosting this prestigious series is none other than the witty Class 95FM DJ Mark Van Cuylenburg (aka The Flying Dutchman), who showed off his skills at the recent Miss Singapore Universe 2001 grand finals when he calmed a contestant who blanked out.

Interested viewers must be at least 18 and above to qualify for the popular programme.

Aspiring millionaires can dial 1900-911-8888 (starting March 17, 2001) to register for the game show. The premium phone calls are charged at $1 per minute and will last about 3 minutes per call.

There will also be an outdoor event on that day at Ngee Ann City, Civic Plaza from 3.30 to 6 pm to launch the premium phone line.

While you may need to wait a little longer for the Mandarin equivalent to be broadcast later this year, stay tuned next Wednesday, March 14 (8 pm) on Channel 5 to get acquainted with the US version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire first.

Cannot wait any longer?

Well, get a taste of the game in our mock (and abbreviated) version of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire here.

Next >>

Join the discussion on our message board

What Shows Will You Like To Watch On TV?

Like our digital photos? Print them into hard copy versions with Photoprints.