Who Dares Wins (Australian game show)
| Company type | Television program |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television entertainment |
| Founded | 1996 |
| Defunct | 1998 |
| Headquarters | Australia |
| Products | Adventure-based game show |
Who Dares Wins is an Australian adventure-based game show that was broadcast on the Seven Network from 1996 until 1998, with reruns continuing until 2007. The program was hosted by ex-Test cricket player Mike Whitney, alongside co-host Tania Zaetta, and was distributed to over 50 countries worldwide.
Developed by David Mason and Adrian Brant, Who Dares Wins showcased contestants undertaking daring physical challenges to earn rewards, serving as an early example of reality television formats similar to Fear Factor.
Format
The core of each episode involves a contestant, nominated by viewers and unexpectedly confronted by Whitney, attempting a hazardous stunt. Successfully completing the stunt results in winning a significant prize, usually consisting of a vacation package plus spending money.
Episodes highlight the preparation and training leading up to the stunt, often featuring demonstrations by professional stunt performers. In cases where the contestant either fails or opts out, co-host Zaetta takes on the challenge; if she accomplishes it, the contestant loses the prize, but if she does not complete or abandons the stunt, the contestant still receives their reward.
In addition to the main stunts, Whitney engages with individuals in public areas such as Australian shopping centers and streets, offering smaller dares for cash prizes between A$50 and $200. These mini-challenges range from handling cockroaches to tightrope walking or performing high dives.
Although production in Australia ceased in 1998, Who Dares Wins continues to enjoy international popularity on cable channels like AXN. Its success in India prompted special episodes filmed there in 2002 and led to an Indian adaptation titled Extreme Dhamaka in 2003.
The show's format was licensed for the UK market as Don't Try This at Home (1998) along with its spin-off Challenge of a Lifetime (2001). In the United States, the Game Show Network aired Who Dares Wins, marketing it as "Australian for Game Show," reflecting a promotional style reminiscent of Foster's Lager advertisements.
Maxibon challenge
During the series' height, Mike Whitney introduced the 'Maxibon challenge,' where contestants had 30 seconds to consume a Nestlé Maxibon ice cream. Those who succeeded received AU$50 and earned the designation 'Whitney Warrior'.
Licensed merchandise
The board game Who Dares Wins: The Board Game, produced by Milton Bradley, featured branding from both the Seven Network and an image of Mike Whitney on its packaging.
Awards
|- ! scope=row | 1997 | 39th Annual TV Week Logie Awards | Most Popular New Talent | Tania Zaetta | |