The critically acclaimed and uproariously fun word game returns for a seventh season, challenging celebrities and contestants alike to think and talk at lightning speed. Hosted by the legendary Meredith Vieira, the game is simple: one teammate must get their partner to guess a series of secret words using only 25 words—or less! The result is a hilarious pressure cooker of quick-thinking clues, panicked guesses, and brilliantly dumbfounded reactions.

This season raises the stakes with new categories, surprise celebrity appearances, and even more chaotic bonus rounds. The fast-paced, family-friendly competition is the perfect blend of brainpower and belly laughs, proving that sometimes the funniest moments happen when you’re desperately searching for the right word with the clock ticking down. It’s a delightful, high-energy half-hour where vocabulary meets vaudeville, and every second counts.

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25 Words or Less Season 7 complete cast

1. Meredith Vieira as Host

Meredith Vieira is the heart and soul of the show, the impeccable ringmaster who keeps the chaotic fun on rails. Her warmth and quick wit put nervous contestants at ease, while her playful teasing of the celebrities creates a comfortable, joyful atmosphere. Vieira doesn’t just host; she’s an active participant in the comedy, reacting to the absurd clues with her signature infectious laugh and genuine surprise.

Vieira’s decades of experience in both news and game shows make her the perfect guide for this madness. She effortlessly explains the rules, celebrates the victories, and commiserates with the defeats, all while ensuring the pace never slows down. Her presence is the glue that holds the delightful chaos together, making every episode feel like a party you’ve been invited to.

2. Greg Grunberg & Andy Richter

This duo represents the ultimate “everyman” energy with A-list charm. Grunberg, with his affable, slightly frantic energy, is a master of the obvious-yet-baffling clue. Richter, the veteran sidekick, brings his dry, subdued Midwestern wit, often delivering the funniest lines with a deadpan expression that belies the ticking clock.

Their chemistry is a throwback to classic comedy teams. Grunberg’s enthusiastic flailing is perfectly countered by Richter’s weary bemusement, making them a fan-favorite pairing that consistently delivers both solid gameplay and huge laughs.

3. Colton Dunn & Jon Barinholtz

As masters of improv from shows like Superstore and The Mindy Project, Dunn and Barinholtz are a force of comedic nature. Dunn’s clever, offbeat clue delivery is matched by Barinholtz’s wild, unpredictable guesses, creating a whirlwind of hilarious miscommunication and occasional moments of pure genius.

Their segments are less about winning and more about the journey, often descending into absurdist riffs that leave host Meredith Vieira in tears of laughter. They embody the spirit of the show: that sometimes having the most fun is the real prize.

4. Jaleel White & Lisa Ann Walter

White brings his trademark nostalgic charm and sharp intelligence, while Walter unleashes her fiery, no-nonsense Philly attitude. White is the strategic clue-giver, carefully choosing his words, while Walter is the explosive guesser, often yelling answers with passionate conviction before the clue is even finished.

Their dynamic is electric and unpredictable. Walter’s hilarious exasperation and White’s calm, calculated responses create a brilliant comedic tension, making them one of the most entertaining and memorable pairs of the season.

5. Mary McCormack & Dan Bucatinsky

This duo brings a dose of seasoned Hollywood class and sharp wit. McCormack is deceptively clever, delivering clues with a sweet smile that often hides a mischievous streak. Bucatinsky is all heart and hustle, a wonderfully expressive player whose face tells the entire story of triumph or despair.

Their friendship and mutual respect are palpable, adding a layer of warmth to their gameplay. They are the team you can’t help but root for, combining smart strategy with genuine, joyful camaraderie.

6. Lace Larrabee & Anitra Mecadon

These powerhouse personalities bring a vibrant, competitive energy to the board. Larrabee, a comedian and actress, is a whirlwind of creative clues and infectious energy. Mecadon, a fabricator and TV host, brings a practical, problem-solving mindset that often leads to clever, outside-the-box guesses.

Together, they are a testament to quick thinking and female empowerment. Their gameplay is fast, focused, and fiercely funny, often dominating their competitors with a blend of intuition and intelligence.

7. Kascha Wilburn

Wilburn, a social media sensation and comedian, is the wild card of the season. Her youthful energy and mastery of modern slang and pop culture make her an unpredictable and hilarious player. She represents the next generation of quick-witted stars, often baffling the older celebrities with her cryptic, Gen-Z clues.

Wilburn’s appearances are a blast of fresh air, reminding everyone that language is always evolving and that the funniest clues often come from the most unexpected places.