It was fun while it lasted. Deal or No Deal Island has officially been canceled by NBC after just two seasons. The reimagined version of the iconic game show saw players transported to the Banker’s private island to compete for cash. Now, it’s a thing of the past. The island is closed.
Deal or No Deal Island Season 3 isn’t happening at NBC
The news of DONDI’s fate was confirmed by Deadline after months of fan speculation. Hosted by Joe Manganiello, Season 1 of DONDI premiered in 2024 with a mix of civilians and reality TV vets like Boston Rob and Claudia Jordan. The show returned for Season 2 in January 2025 with even more familiar faces, like Parvati Shallow.
As 2025 went on without any news of Season 3, reality TV fans began wondering about the future of the show. Why haven’t we heard anything about it? Sure enough, it’s because NBC quietly pulled the plug. Shame.
Although DONDI was widely celebrated by reality TV fans, insiders noted that Season 2 dipped in viewership compared to Season 1. NBC was banking on another blockbuster hit like The Traitors. According to Nielsen, Season 2 only averaged 0.24 in the 18-49 demo, a few points lower than the first.
The other thing about Season 2 that might have sealed DONDI’s fate was the prize money. While Season 1 gave out a $1.3 million payday, Season 2 ended with Australian Survivor star David Genat making off with $5.8 million. It was the largest game show prize in history, and some fans believe his massive win bankrupted the Banker himself.
Whether it was the record-breaking prize money or a case of bad ratings, it’s a bummer to see DONDI meet this premature fate. Rest in peace, DONDI. You’re forever in our hearts.
Deal or No Deal Island is streaming on Peacock.
TELL US – ARE YOU SAD THAT DONDI WON’T RETURN FOR SEASON 3? DO YOU THINK IT WAS BECAUSE OF THE RATINGS OR DID DAVID BANKRUPT THE SHOW WITH HIS MASSIVE WIN?
