How to take part in 'American Ninja Warrior' walk-on lottery? Long walk-on lines replaced to save ninjas' time
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The first few seasons of 'American Ninja Warrior' were well-known for their lengthy walk-on lines, when hopeful contestants would camp outside in hopes of winning a spot in the competition.
Walk-on contestants like Kevin Bull went on to have incredible careers, while frequent competitor Dave Cavanagh earned the moniker "King of the Walk-Ons" after making it into the program five times in a row.
Regrettably, the process was laborious and sometimes required potential Ninjas to take weeks off work for a very slim chance of securing a spot. Consequently, the procedure was altered for Season 11.
Rather than setting up camp at taping locations—many of which prohibited such activity and considered it trespassing—contestants could enter a lottery at one of the qualifying cities. Only 20 names were chosen from the lottery entries, making it a much simpler process.
The twenty selected applicants became the city's successful walk-ons. Those who were not chosen could apply at one of the other locations. This approach is not only more equitable and straightforward but also provides people of all backgrounds and income levels the opportunity to showcase their abilities on the largest Ninja platform in the United States.
When is the premiere of 'American Ninja Warrior' Season 16?
'American Ninja Warrior' 16 will debut on NBC on Monday, June 3, 2024. Get ready for a summer filled with action.
The most accomplished athletes in the nation will be competing on the hardest obstacle courses around the globe in this exciting competition, which is coming back to NBC. New episodes start on June 3 at 8/7c on NBC, and they may be streamed the next day on Peacock.
What's new about 'American Ninja Warrior' Season 16?
For the first time in the history of 'American Ninja Warrior', Season 15 introduced a thrilling new format where Ninjas competed directly against one another to advance to the next round of the tournament. This exciting development saw Ninjas facing off against both friends and opponents.
All eyes are on the cast of Season 16 to see if they can rise to the challenge after Season 15 made history as the first to witness a Ninja achieve Total Victory.
In the Semi-Finals, the Ninjas will be challenged to race side by side and head-to-head on a high-stakes track, with a spot in the National Finals hanging in the balance. This format carries over the significant changes from the previous season.
Every one of the four stages in Vegas is back, including the $1 million Stage 4 rope climb.
Who are the hosts of 'American Ninja Warrior' Season 16?
The hosts, Matt Iseman and Akbar Gbajabiamila, along with co-host Zuri Hall, return to call the action as the Ninjas progress to the National Finals in Las Vegas after successfully navigating through the Qualifying and Semi-Final rounds in Los Angeles. Zuri, the talented sideline reporter, has the privilege of speaking with Ninjas immediately after their thrilling runs, providing insights on the action from the front lines.
Zuri works as a journalist for Access Hollywood on NBC as well. Additionally, Matt, known for his roles as an actor and comedian, is a beloved host on 'American Ninja Warrior'.
Matt served as the anchor of Peacock's daily morning show for the Tokyo 2021 and Beijing 2022 Olympics, in addition to hosting 'American Ninja Warrior'. Completing the ideal squad of 'American Ninja Warrior' hosts is NFL icon Akbar, who brings his expertise following his anchoring of NFL Fantasy Live.
Watch the latest episodes of 'American Ninja Warrior' Season 16 on NBC and Peacock beginning on Monday, June 3 to ensure you don't miss a second.