ABC has announced that the third episode of the current season of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire will air tonight, August 5, 2026. The episode, titled “In The Hot Seat: Brad Paisley & Clayton Kershaw / Michael Kosta & Wendi McLendon-Covey,” features a lineup of high-profile celebrities playing to win prize money for their chosen charities.
Country music star Brad Paisley is set to team up with Major League Baseball legend Clayton Kershaw. The pair will navigate the show’s 15-question format in an attempt to secure a $1 million donation. Following their appearance, the episode will feature comedian Michael Kosta partnering with actress Wendi McLendon-Covey.
The show continues its current format of pairing celebrity guests, emphasizing collaborative play to reach the top prize. The episode is scheduled to broadcast tonight at 7:00 PM Central Standard Time on ABC.
Follow-up Questions
What happens if a pair of celebrities misses a question?
The game follows standard rules where incorrect answers result in the loss of winnings accumulated up to the last safe haven, though celebrity versions often include variations depending on the specific seasonal rules
Are these episodes pre-recorded?
Yes, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire episodes featuring celebrity guests are typically pre-recorded in advance of the broadcast date
Perspectives
Charitable Impact vs Entertainment Strategy
Story lens
Charitable Impact
The shift toward celebrity-led charity play positions the game show as a philanthropic vehicle, moving the focus away from individual gain to institutional contributions, which has been well-received by audiences on social media
Entertainment Strategy
ABC's strategy of pairing cross-industry stars, such as a country singer and an MLB athlete, is designed to capture broader demographic interest and maintain viewership across different entertainment sectors
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