Netflix is closing out the year with a brand-new game show designed to blow up friendships, strengthen partnerships and spark the kind of chaos only Neil Patrick Harris can perfectly host. Premiering Dec. 17, What’s in the Box? brings eight pairs of contestants together to compete for 13 massive, life-changing prizes, all hidden inside glittering, oversized gold boxes. To win, teams must answer trivia questions, outmaneuver rival players and survive enough surprising twists to reach the season’s ultimate reward: the Super Box, worth more than $250,000.
But the real drama of What’s in the Box? isn’t just what the contestants win, it’s what they’re willing to risk.
Each episode offers opportunities to steal, sabotage and strategize, pushing contestants to decide whether to play as loyal teammates, clever tacticians or ruthless competitors. Even best friends and married couples will face unexpected pressure, proving that trust is as valuable a currency as knowledge.
Below, meet the diverse cast competing to uncover the mystery inside each box — and what they hope to take home.
Mary-Ashanti and Djennane
What they hope is in the box: “A beauty brand deal for us to cocreate something epic.”
For hair and makeup artists Mary-Ashanti and Djennane, this show is an extension of a 12-year partnership built on mentorship, artistry and sisterhood. The pair met during cosmetology teacher training and became family shortly afterward. “We’re not just best friends,” they say. “We’re chosen sisters who build dreams and make money together.” Their chemistry and confidence make them one of the season’s most harmonious teams.
Keira and Car’dell
What they hope is in the box: “A rent-free condo. Dream big right?!”
Vocal coaches from Atlanta, Keira and Car’dell have been friends since college, developing a rapport so tight that strangers often mistake them for twins. “Some will say we act identical, like twins,” they tell Tudum. “We have integrated ourselves into each other’s lives musically, personally, and even spiritually.” Their biggest challenge? Keeping their expressive personalities in check. “We hope our mics aren’t on the whole time,” they joke.
Erin and Danielle
What they hope is in the box: “Something travel related, like a dream vacation or a second car since we share one.”
Identical twins Erin and Danielle share careers, hobbies and — yes — a single car. “We live in a bubble and it’s just us,” Erin says. “We even share a car because there is literally no point in having two when we are always side by side.” They grew up in a trivia-loving family so they feel pretty confident about their chances this season. “We have been competitive since day one. Sports, grades, boys, you name it,” they stated. “But this time it was such a blast actually being on the same team for once.”
Laith and Danielle
What they hope is in the box: “A home gym.”
Newlyweds Laith and Danielle are entering the competition during a life milestone — they’re preparing for parenthood. Laith, a former NFL player who briefly played with the Arizona Cardinals, now works as a coach, while Danielle is a hair extension specialist with a celebrity clientele. “I wear the pants, but she brings the spice,” Laith says. Their goal is to enjoy one unforgettable adventure before expanding their family. As Laith jokes, “Can you put a baby seat in a Ferrari?”
Joey and Scott
What they hope is in the box: “We both love travel and food. Anywhere, any place, any time, so all the travel is just amazing.”
Together for more than 20 years, married couple Joey and Scott embody teamwork. “We are best friends, business partners, we do everything together all the time,” Joey tells Tudum. Both work in renovation and construction, with Joey focusing on design and Scott as the real estate broker, and the two have collaborated on many projects. “Our strength is working together. We are used to working closely together, listening to each other, and working to find solutions.” The two live in North Carolina with their dog, Charlotte Dorothy Peppercorn.
Macy and Jasmine
What they hope is in the box: “A destination trip of our dreams.”
Former Atlanta Falcons cheerleaders Macy and Jasmine met as rookies and have remained inseparable ever since — even cheering at the Super Bowl together. Their secret weapon is what they call “Spinergy,” a blend of positivity and relentless drive. Still, Jasmine warns that her expressions may betray her. “My face says exactly how I feel,” she says. Don’t let their smiles fool you — these two are fiercely competitive.
Luke and Leona
What they hope is in the box: “Tickets to a major sporting event or something that would allow us to take a trip together.”
Texas mother-son team Leona and Luke share a lifelong bond, strengthened after the loss of Leona’s husband. “We work very well as a team, having known each other literally our entire lives,” Leona says. Luke is a stay-at-home dad to twins, and Leona is a university professor. Both admit they’re extremely competitive — but committed to playing fairly and smartly.
Binh and Andrew
What they hope is in the box: “Something life-changing — cash, a dream getaway, or a once-in-a-lifetime experience that makes the gamble worth it.”
Best friends for more than 22 years, Binh and Andrew met while managing nightclubs in Miami. Despite living on opposite coasts, they still operate with uncanny synchronicity. “We’ve handled high-pressure situations for decades and communicate without saying a word,” Binh says. Andrew adds that trust is their strategy: “We may not always agree, but we’ll always defer to the one who feels more strongly.”
With bold personalities, high emotions and even higher stakes, What’s in the Box? promises a game show where relationships matter just as much as trivia skills. When competition heats up, alliances may shatter — but the rewards could change lives.
What’s in the Box? premieres Dec. 17 on Netflix. Ready to guess what’s inside?
