Face Value

Face Value is a refreshing and innovative game show that aired on BET in 2017. This unique show leverages comedy and variety formats to address implicit bias and stereotypes in an engaging and insightful way. Essentially, it's a humorous exploration of prejudices, judgments, and perceptions.

The premise of the show is built on the universal human tendency to make snap judgments about others based on their appearances, hence the name "Face Value." Participants in the game are tasked with guessing facts about strangers purely based on their outward appearances and first impressions. This dynamic creates scenarios that are as hilarious as they are revealing, prompting viewers to question their own preconceived notions about people they encounter day to day.

Face Value is hosted by the dynamic duo of Deon Cole and Tiffany Haddish. Cole, known for his role on the comedy series "Black-ish" and his stand-up comedy credentials, functions as the main host. He brings his signature wit and charm to the show, delivering comedy in a big-hearted manner that also raises pertinent social issues. On the other hand, Haddish, star of hit shows like "The Carmichael Show" and blockbusters like "Girls Trip," serves as the commentator in charge of injecting witty asides and keeping the energy high. This pairing results in a flurry of on-screen hilarity that underlines the core social premise of the show.

Each episode of Face Value features two teams, each one led by a celebrity captain. These teams go head-to-head to figure out the surprising, often funny, truth behind strangers picked from a diverse pool. People from various backgrounds, professions, and cultures make appearances on the show, making every episode a novel experience. The contestants then take turns making judgments about these strangers. Questions range from guessing a stranger's occupation to guessing their marital status and even estimating how many fights they've been in. The answers, revealed after the guesses have been made, often flip stereotypes and expectations on their heads.

The format of the show is a perfect platform for discussions around stereotypes and biases in society. It allows viewers to join in an implicit bias check indirectly. While their preliminary guesses often align with their own unrecognized biases, participants learn throughout the game that appearances can indeed be deceptive. This situation not only serves up a helping of humor but also acts as a social commentary, encouraging a more open-minded approach towards strangers.

In addition to the game format, Face Value also hosts guest appearances from a range of high-profile celebrities. These include famous comedians, actors, and other personalities from the world of entertainment. Their participation provides an extra layer of excitement and humor and helps breathe life into the games with their quick wit and unique comedic styles.

Produced by Academy Award-winner and Hollywood stalwart Halle Berry, Face Value combines light-hearted entertainment with deeper societal issues in a manner unique to its format. While it engages viewers with its humor and celebrity glamour, it also encourages them to broaden their worldviews, challenging them to look beyond their preconceived notions and stereotypes.

In conclusion, Face Value is a lively game show that embraces its concept of ‘judging a book by its cover’ with a sense of fun, while also making a serious point about unconscious biases and stereotypes. Its blend of comedy, social commentary, and celebrity participation makes it a standout show that continues to entertain while promoting the need for inclusivity and diversity in modern society. Overall, Face Value is an entertaining, challenging, and uniquely enlightening experience that was a must-watch addition to BET's 2017 line-up.