The New York Times is betting that the world’s obsession with five-letter words is far from over. In a major move to expand its lifestyle brand, the media giant has announced that Wordle will be adapted into a televised game show on NBC.
A Star-Studded Production
The project, which has been quietly in development for two and a half years, was officially unveiled by “Today” show anchor Savannah Guthrie and “The Tonight Show” host Jimmy Fallon. Guthrie is set to host the program, while Fallon and The New York Times will serve as production partners.
While the mobile version of Wordle is known for its quiet, meditative pace, the TV adaptation is being billed as a “fast-paced” family competition. This transition marks the first time the Times has partnered with a major broadcaster for an entertainment-focused program, signaling a significant shift in its business strategy.
Diversifying the Digital Portfolio
This leap into television is more than just entertainment; it is a calculated move to bolster the Times’ digital subscription model as traditional print revenue continues to decline. Since acquiring the game from creator Josh Wardle in early 2022, the NYT has seen its gaming division explode.
The acquisition immediately funneled tens of millions of new users to the platform. By 2024, users played more than 11 billion puzzles across the NYT Games suite—a massive jump from the 8 billion recorded in 2023. By bringing Wordle to NBC, the company aims to translate that digital engagement into a broad-reach media franchise.
What’s Next for Fans?
Production is moving quickly, with NBC scheduled to begin filming episodes this summer for a premiere next year. For those who think their “ADIEU” and “STARE” openers are unbeatable, the network is currently searching for contestants to compete on the big stage.
