#Middlebury
Q: I know on this season of “American Ninja Warrior” the contestants could win prize money for conquering the Mega Wall, but do they receive any other money for participation? Also, it seems many contestants travel to the different cities even when they’re not competing. I would think that could get fairly expensive if they’re paying for it themselves. – S.S.
A: NBC’s “American Ninja Warrior” is an obstacle course competition held in various cities, culminating in the finalists competing in Las Vegas for a $1 million prize. However, only one person takes home that loot. Everyone else gets squat, although as you mentioned, competitors can win up to $10,000 if they’re able to scale the Mega Wall.
According to Looper.com, the ninjas you see succeeding season after season “are finding new ways to make a living based on their athleticism. … This includes doing commercials and making appearances at gyms and other events.”
A self-proclaimed five-time competitor posted anonymously on Reddit that the athletes pay for all their travel expenses unless they’re competing in the national finals. In that case, NBC does cover the cost of the flight, hotel and meals. As for those ninjas who travel to other cities to cheer on their competition, I would imagine that’s on their own dime as well. However, due to the popularity of “ANW,” many of these competitors likely make money off sponsorships and promotions through Instagram, and some have even opened their own gyms.
Frankie Muniz (Depositphotos photo)
Q: What health issue does Frankie Muniz from “Malcolm in the Middle” have again? I thought I read he was dealing with something serious a few years ago. – G.I.
A: Muniz, age 33, reportedly has suffered several TIAs (transient ischemic attacks) that have left him with serious memory problems. He recently told People magazine that he has no recollection of some things he’s done, like vacations he took, but that he just tries to live the best and most fulfilling life he can. He’s also looking forward to his upcoming wedding with fiancee Paige Price.
Q: We’ve noticed that Matt is not mentioned or seen on “Alaskan Bush People” anymore. What happened to him? – Pat
A: Matt, the 37-year-old son of Billy and Ami Brown on Discovery channel’s “Alaskan Bush People,” completed rehab for alcohol abuse at the Betty Ford Center earlier this year. The 10th season was being filmed during this time, which explains his absence.
While he’s not expected to be on the current season, he has signed on to appear in the 11th season. According to Heavy.com, it was Matt’s decision to leave the show temporarily in order to focus on getting clean. According to father Billy: “He’s fighting a hard road. He has for a long time. We just try to let him know that family’s here no matter what.”
Send me your questions at NewCelebrityExtra@gmail.com, or write c/o KFWS, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.
© 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.
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