Happenings

Did I ever mention that game shows are cheap? So networks often can't resist plugging in an episode or four whenever a sinkhole opens in the schedule. And NBC has a really sinky hole called Chase, a scripted loser about chasing people, I think.

Nobody watches Chase, so NBC is again pulling it from the schedule on February 2 for another two-part Minute To Win It extravaganza. The Beat the Clock descendant costs peanuts and pulls respectable numbers, so NBC execs can't resist filling time with the stunts and silliness. As long as NBC's scripted shows keep crashing - which has been known to happen now and then - Guy Fieri and friends will keep riding to the rescue.

Money Drop is adding an online play-along game for its season finale next week. Hey, maybe they can play it on GSN Live! The EW.com story cautions: "Should the online play-along format prove popular (and the show get another season), don’t be surprised if the online component becomes a regular part of the show." Right now Money Drop may be bubble-sitting. Ratings have perked up recently, and the show is - did I mention this before? - dirt-cheap. We might see another go-round.

The Hasbro, er, Hub network will run a Valentine's Day marathon of Family Game Night, which seems to be their highest-rated game show. Kiddie games have never been my speed, but if you like six hours of children running around madly...well, tune in.