(NBC) — As “American Ninja Warrior” cohost Matt Iseman is fond of saying, more people have walked on the moon (12) than have won the million dollar prize on “American Ninja Warrior” over the past 15 seasons.
But million-dollar winner number three came last summer and with a new season starting Monday on NBC, the big question is whether the show might crown a fourth millionaire at season’s end.
Last summer, Vance Walker became just the third million-dollar winner in 15 seasons of “American Ninja Warrior.” Walker will try to repeat when the new season gets underway, but dozens of other ninjas including young ones are eyeing the same prize.
“You’ve got 16-year-olds running the course, it’s amazing,” said cohost Akbar Gbajabiamila.
“15-year-olds, too,” added Iseman.
And the young teens’ presence has had a big impact.
“It really sped up the game and it sped up the game for a lot of the veterans as well,” said Gbajabiamila.
“They’ve handled the pressure better than we could have expected and they have completely changed the sport,” said Iseman.
And maybe set the stage for “Ninja” to crown back-to-back champions for the first time.
“I always say we get to see moments that people will remember for the rest of their lives,” said Iseman.
A million dollars tends to do that.
In addition, a Columbus woman is returning for her fourth time on the premiere episode. Jenn Sanders began competing as Jennifer Stefano before marrying fellow “ANW” Ryan Sanders.
Sanders has competed in Seasons 12, 13 and 14. Her last appearance in 2022 was her best — advancing to the show’s semifinals by placing fifth among the women and 29th overall, to make it into the top 30.
Watch the season premiere of “American Ninja Warrior” Monday at 8 p.m. on NBC4.