Cash Cab
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A lot or a little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this unique game show tests random taxicab riders on their trivia knowledge for a cash prize. Questions are general knowledge and appropriate for all ages, though preteens may not have the knowledge base to fully participate in play-at-home viewing. The host occasionally smirks at the camera when a contestant doesn't know an answer, but the tone of the show is generally lighthearted. The host and/or contestants occasionally use mild curse words, though they're usually bleeped. Be sure to remind kids that they should never get in a stranger's car, no matter what the incentive.
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User Reviews
a good family program
OMG I saw the cash cab!
What's the story?
CASH CAB and its spin-off CASH CAB CHICAGO are innovative game shows in which unsuspecting New York City (or Chicago) taxi riders answer trivia questions for a cash prize. When customers jump in comedian Ben Bailey's (New York) or Beth Melewski's (Chicago) taxi, they don't realize they're entering a mobile game show. If riders agree to play, the cab starts moving and the game begins. Contestants have the duration of their ride to answer general knowledge trivia questions, which get progressively harder and more lucrative as the driver negotiates Manhattan traffic. But if they answer incorrectly three times, contestants must leave the cab and lose any prize money. Two "shout-outs" are available: one chance to ask someone on the street for help and one call to someone. Those who make it to their destination can double their money by answering a question transmitted by video monitor -- but if they answer incorrectly, they lose everything.
Is it any good?
Questions are interesting, with topics ranging from geography to media. Players vary in age, ethnicity, and skill, which adds an extra appeal to the show. The hosts are likable, and his quips are funny without overpowering the flow of the game.
Talk to your kids about ...
Families can play along with the game. Do kids or parents know the answers that stump the contestants? Who would you call for a "shout-out"?
Would you agree to play the game if you got into the Cash Cab
unsuspectingly? Do you think it's safe for the driver to be hosting the
show while he's driving?
How is this show similar to and different from
other TV game shows?
TV details
- Premiere date: December 5, 2005
- Cast: Ben Bailey
- Network: Discovery Channel
- Genre: Game Shows
- TV rating: TV-G
For kids who love trivia
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Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.