NBC'S 'DEAL OR NO DEAL' IS UPPING THE ANTE LIKE NEVER BEFORE TO GIVE AWAY THE TOP PRIZE DURING ITS EXCITING MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR MADNESS

Lucky Contestants Get To Take Matters Into Their Own Hands In Order To Increase Their Chances To Win The One Million Grand Prize

BURBANK, Calif. � May 9, 2008 � Beginning on Thursday, May 22 (8-9:30 p.m. ET) and culminating on Tuesday, June 24 (8-9 p.m. ET), "Deal or No Deal" contestants take fate in their own hands when they get to determine just how many one million dollar cases they get to have on their board.

In Multi-Million Dollar Madness, host Howie Mandel lets each competing contestant in on a little secret with incredible ramifications -- the number of one million dollar cases can range from two all the way to an odds friendly 13! To select this crucial and potentially life changing number, contestants will stand in a clear cylinder and select from among the many golden balls swirling around. Each ball has a designated number inside that will determine how many additional million-dollar cases will be in play.

Now that the contestants have control over their boards, the Banker is in for some big trouble when Susan Cukjati starts her game with 11 one million dollar cases. Keeping the luck going, Adam Hansen selects a ball with a 12 and Chris Trieu picks a ball with a three. Toni Crispino happily adds seven extra one million dollar cases and Brandy Brown increases her odds when she picks a ball with an eight on it.

With odds stacked on their side, each contestant will then try their luck at becoming the first person to win the top prize of one million dollars in a high-energy match of nerves, instincts and raw intuition. Also, viewers can help choose a new "Deal or No Deal" model for next season and have a chance to win $10,000. The final winner will be announced on NBC Wednesday, June 25 at 8 p.m. ET prior to the premiere of the new reality series "The Baby Borrowers."

Based on the successful format from Endemol that has aired in over 50 countries, "Deal or No Deal" is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. David Goldberg is the president of Endemol USA. The series is executive-produced by Scott St. John.