Current:Home > StocksChuck E. Cheese has a 'super-sized' game show in the works amid financial woes -TradeWise
Chuck E. Cheese has a 'super-sized' game show in the works amid financial woes
View
Date:2025-04-18 20:00:26
A game show series is in the works for "big kid" adults still fond of Chuck E. Cheese, the iconic pizza place that doubles as an arcade and entertainment center.
The series, being produced by Magical Elves ("Top Chef," "Brain Games" and "Nailed It!") will focus on the brand's arcade experience, the company announced Tuesday.
Paired-off contestants will compete over "supersized arcade games," including pinball, air hockey, alley roller and the human claw, according to the company. The duo with the most tickets will exchange them for a much cooler version of the Chuck E. Cheese prize wall.
"We are thrilled to be working with Magical Elves, whose deep expertise in unscripted content make them the perfect partner to capture the wholesome competitive spirit tied to childhood memories and transform the Chuck E. Cheese experience for television," Melissa McLeanas, VP of global licensing, media, and branded entertainment development for Chuck E. Cheese, said in a statement.
"Chuck E. Cheese is THE place where a kid can be a kid – but as grown adults, we still have dreams of ruling the arcade, taking on the iconic games we love," Magical Elves co-CEOs Jo Sharon and Casey Kriley added. "We're excited to celebrate these legendary arcade games plus the best of today, all with a super-sized twist."
The Irving, Texas-based company did not share timing details.
The show is over:Munch's Make Believe band closes at all Chuck E. Cheese locations but one
Gameshow series comes amid company struggles
This is the company's latest attempt to expand its brand presence outside its four walls.
Wildly popular in the 1990s, Chuck E. Cheese has steadily been on the decline since 2012, according to a timeline reported by Business Insider, but it really took a hit with the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since Chuck E. Cheese is known more for its entertainment than its food, sales tanked 21% in the first quarter alone, with families being isolated at home. The company tried to pivot by rebranding around a delivery service that would also bring the company's mascot around for in-person meet-ups, but it didn't prove to be successful.
Lying under a mountain of debt, Chuck E. Cheese is exploring a buyout, according to reporting by Reuters. The company is working with Goldman Sachs to restructure to "attract potential buyers, including private equity firms and other entertainment companies, like Dave & Busters."
veryGood! (3)
Related
- 'Squid Game' without subtitles? Duolingo, Netflix encourage fans to learn Korean
- The Supreme Court wrestles with questions over the Navajo Nation's water rights
- Gigi Hadid’s Daughter Khai Proves She’s Next in Fashion With These Adorable Photos
- Madison Beer Details Suicidal Thoughts, Substance Abuse, Sexual Assault in Her Book The Half of It
- Senate begins final push to expand Social Security benefits for millions of people
- Why deforestation means less rain in tropical forests
- A dance of hope by children who scavenge coal
- Hundreds of thousands are without power as major winter storm blasts the U.S.
- Stamford Road collision sends motorcyclist flying; driver arrested
- This Off-Shoulder Maxi Dress With Hundreds of 5-Star Amazon Reviews Is the Perfect Summer Vacation Look
Ranking
- What do we know about the mysterious drones reported flying over New Jersey?
- Jordana Brewster Shares How Late Co-Star Paul Walker Remains an Integral Part of Fast & Furious
- Mother's Day Gift Guide: Shop 5 Jewelry Picks That Are Totally Charm-ing
- California is still at risk of flooding. Maybe rivers just need some space
- From family road trips to travel woes: Americans are navigating skyrocketing holiday costs
- New England and upstate New York brace for a winter storm
- How ancient seeds in Lebanon could help us adapt to climate change
- Murder, Madness and the Real Horror Explored in Amityville: An Origin Story
Recommendation
Could your smelly farts help science?
Bridget Everett and Jeff Hiller Explain Importance of Somebody Somewhere’s Queer Representation
The U.S. plans new protections for old forests facing pressure from climate change
Kate Spade 24-Hour Flash Deal: Get This $360 Satchel Bag for Just $89
Civic engagement nonprofits say democracy needs support in between big elections. Do funders agree?
Call Her Daddy's Alex Cooper Is Engaged to Matt Kaplan
How to save a slow growing tree species
Black Mirror Season 6 Finally Has a Thrilling Release Date