Netflix Sparks Fierce Bidding War to Launch Monopoly-Based Reality Show
UNITED STATES — In a bold new move that could redefine unscripted television, Netflix is developing a reality competition series based on the iconic board game Monopoly, triggering one of the largest production “bake-offs” in industry history.
More than 40 production companies are reportedly in contention to create the series, competing to bring a social strategy–based version of Monopoly to life on screen. As detailed by TV News Check, this selection process is one of the most aggressive Netflix has ever undertaken in the unscripted genre.
The Monopoly Show: A Game of Strategy, Alliances, and Power Plays
The Monopoly-based reality show will not be a simple board game reenactment. Instead, Netflix envisions a “large-scale social experiment,” where contestants attempt to “own it all by any means necessary.”
According to Nerdist, the project promises a unique mix of game theory, alliances, sabotage, and wealth accumulation — designed to echo the ruthless spirit of Monopoly’s classic gameplay.
The series will likely include high-stakes physical and mental challenges, real-world deal-making, and evictions, similar to what audiences have come to expect from shows like The Circle and Survivor — but layered with Monopoly’s theme of economic domination.
How Netflix Landed the Monopoly Rights
Earlier this year, Netflix secured exclusive unscripted rights to Monopoly from Hasbro Entertainment, adding the 90-year-old brand to its growing roster of intellectual property. The agreement paves the way for Netflix to build multiple spinoffs, beginning with this flagship competition series.
As reported by Broadcast Now, the goal is not just to capitalize on nostalgia but to modernize Monopoly’s cultural relevance — aligning with Netflix’s strategy of adapting well-known brands for younger audiences.
Why 40 Studios Are Fighting For This
Industry insiders describe the competition among producers as “cutthroat,” with Netflix looking for a partner capable of delivering cinematic scale, intricate gameplay mechanics, and mass appeal.
The bidding war includes studios known for mega-franchise formats like The Traitors, The Mole, and Squid Game: The Challenge. IMDb News confirms that the platform is prioritizing innovation over tradition, with a vision to make Monopoly “the most talked-about game show in streaming.”
When Could It Premiere?
While no release date has been announced, filming is expected to begin in early 2026 once the winning production partner is selected. Netflix has remained quiet about the final cast or showrunner, but sources suggest a multi-season roadmap is already in discussion.
This development is part of a larger wave of game-based adaptations hitting the small screen — with titles like Clue, Uno, and Settlers of Catan rumored to be in similar stages of development across major platforms.
Will Monopoly become Netflix’s next breakout reality hit? Or is the board game format too nostalgic for modern competition? Sound off and stay tuned to ChicagoMusicGuide.com for all entertainment trend coverage.