The Rules You Didn't Know 'Family Feud' Contestants Have to Follow (2024)

To start the application process, head to the game show's site. Fill out your info, click submit, and that's it! If you're selected to move on, you'll hear back from producers within four weeks.

Though not required, an audition video is highly encouraged by producers. The short clip should show off the personalities in your group, according to the application: "We are looking for families who have energy, enthusiasm, and an ability to play the game!"

If you're on the shy side, Family Feud might not be for you. "Whether you're filming your audition video or attending a local tryout, try to be bold and assertive," head of casting Sara Dansby revealed. "We're looking for high energy, but it all comes down to confidence. We need people who won't freeze up on stage, so we can make an exciting show!"

Once you pass the first test, your family might be asked to participate in a mock game for producers. If you can impress them — and then pass another round of interviews — you'll be put into a database of families that the show can call up at any time.

Producers want to see that you're a fan of the show, so make sure you know how to play. "Aside from energy and enthusiasm, we also look for an ability to play the game and to come up with answers," head of casting Sara Dansby shared, "And if you love the show for a specific reason, mention it!”

Even though your family of six can audition together, only five are actually allowed to play if casted.

In the case of former contestant Danielle Green, producers gave her family of six "non-negotiables" (they definitely wanted her parents and brother to play, because of their unique backstories).

Family Feud films in front of a studio audience so having stage presence is a huge plus. Being able to be loud, joke with Steve Harvey, and maintain high energy are all things producers look for in the families they choose.

Unlike many other game shows, any age is allowed to compete on Family Feud. That being said, producers usually suggest families only bring along kids ages 15 years or older, as the nature of some questions can lean more adult.

It wouldn't be Family Feud without family. In order to be eligible to compete, you must bring along five relatives through either blood, marriage, or legal adoption.

No candidates running for political office are allowed to be on the show.

Another ineligible group? Anyone who has been featured on more than two game shows in the last year.

If you or anyone on your team has appeared on Family Feud before, you must wait 10 years before applying again.

No nepotism here! If you or anyone on your team knows or is related to someone employed by the production companies involved in the show, or any Steve Harvey-owned company, you can't compete.

If you really want to win big on Family Feud, it won't come without some work. Before the big day, you should watch old episodes or play the board game.

According to a former contestant, an entire mock game is played before the actual show, to test out lighting, sound effects, and more.

Fun fact: The Wall Street Journal reported that the show uses polling firm Applied Research-West to call random people (who aren't told their responses are for Family Feud) to gather survey data. Writers typically send in 100 questions to executive producers, who then narrow it down to 30 or 40 before the polling begins.

The taping schedule can be a bit hectic — especially if your family moves on to film another episode. According to a former contestant, producers shoot anywhere from four to six episodes in a day. "The atmosphere was very fast-paced," he wrote on Reddit. "For example, when you finish a game, they whisk you backstage to hook you up with a wireless mic while they give you instructions and all you are focused on is getting some water."

No matter how crazy it is, contestants must remain enthusiastic and cheer for every. single. answer. As former contestant David Newman wrote, "Enthusiasm not only makes good game show TV, it also makes good teamwork environment."