September 23, 2011
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In the past few months I’ve noticed a real surge in the number of science-based television shows. From the launch of science series and documentaries on major networks to casting notices for bona fide scientists (not actors who think they can talk science) to host or be featured guests on several projects in development. It is very encouraging to see science being embraced in so many new formats and by so many different networks.
The latest in a series of castings I’ve seen this fall is a new competition-style game show that claims to define a new generation of nerdiness. ‘KING OF THE NERDS’ will aim to showcase the scientific passions and knowledge of contestants (men AND women, ages 21-30) as they compete for cash prizes. The show comes from the producers of some massively successful game-show formats like Mythbusters and Amazing Race, and frankly, it sounds cool. It’s about time that all of us super-fly nerdy people bring down the typical stereotypes of what it means to be an intellectual. In fact, it sounded a little too good to be true – so I contacted casting director Lindsay Spaulding for a little more information. In Lindsay’s own words:
“We are incredibly excited to be doing a show that is highlighting nerds, rather than exploiting them. King of the Nerds is an opportunity for self proclaimed nerds to put their intellect and resume out there in front of millions. Our culture is transforming to realize that nerds are taking over the world (in a major way), and we want to help prove it.”
The show is looking for mathematicians, biologists, chemists, physicists, programmers, inventors, puzzle-masters, engineers, gamers, comic book fanatics, movie buffs, trekkies, techies, mensa members, chess masters and any other kind of intellectual-based geeks for contestants. If you are a contender you’ll be asked to submit an audition video, and from there if you are selected you’ll be flown to LA to participate in the game (the search is nationwide).
Now I know that there are a LOT of super-cool nerds out there, and this seems like an interesting opportunity to bring more science and scientists to the forefront of ‘what’s cool’ on TV (not to mention that you could actually win a little cash in the process). So submit your stuff, and then tell me all about your experience on the show! To apply send your name, photo, contact info and brief bio to ‘lindsaycasting@gmail.com’.
GO FORTH AND BE NERDY!
About the Author: Carin Bondar is a biologist, writer and film-maker with a PhD in population ecology from the University of British Columbia. Find Dr. Bondar online at www.carinbondar.com, on twitter @drbondar or on her facebook page: Dr. Carin Bondar – Biologist With a Twist. Follow on Twitter @drbondar.
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Let’s have a try out. Can anyone answer the following?
If tribbles reproduce twice per day with litters of 10 at a time, how many days would it take before the Enterprise crew that first discovered them faced a Ten-Forward lounge completely filled with purring puff balls? (Tribbles have an average diameter of 20 cm and Ten-Forward is 50m x 40m x 5m.)
Link to thisHello? 3 days, 2 hours and 6 minutes. Come on Eric, you’re not even trying!!!
Link to thisI’m afraid that is incorrect. Anyone else want to try? To achieve the title of King you must be a well-rounded nerd, not just a science nerd.
Link to thisTrick question! The original Enterprise doesn’t have a Ten-Forward. Ten-Forward is on the 1701-D, which launched decades after the Klingons eradicated tribbles by introducing a biological control agent.
Link to thisBingo! I think we’ve got the makings of a solid contestant here. I wonder what other questions the show might have. Ideas?
Link to thisOk you two seriously need to sign up. Do it for well rounded nerds everywhere (does that make me a square one?!)
Link to thisThey want proud nerds ages 21-30. Us older folks are too experienced. I have many years of nerdery–I’d out-nerd them all. Hardly fair, I expect.
Link to thisI am so going to ask her about that on Monday Joanne – it seems to me like you can hardly know anything before you’re 30. I’ll keep you posted on any addendum!!
Link to thisFrom zero to nerdy in 1 comment. That’s pretty fast, even for Scientific American.
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