Match Game (ABC Show) – Cast & Characters

Get ready for uproarious fun as Match Game makes its triumphant return, hosted by the legendary Martin Short! This beloved game show brings back its signature blend of quick wit, outrageous answers, and hilarious celebrity banter as four contestants compete to match the responses of a star-studded panel. With $25,000 on the line each week, the laughs never stop as players and celebrities alike try to fill in the blanks in the most unexpected—and often absurd—ways possible.

The 2025 season promises even more chaos, with an all-star lineup of comedians, actors, and pop culture icons joining the panel. From unpredictable answers to Martin Short’s razor-sharp hosting, Match Game remains the ultimate mix of comedy and competition. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the fun, this season guarantees side-splitting moments, surprise guest appearances, and the kind of spontaneous humor that only happens when you gather this much comedic talent in one room.

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Meet the Cast

1. Martin Short as Host

The incomparable Martin Short returns as the quick-witted, endlessly entertaining host of Match Game. Known for his iconic characters and impeccable comedic timing, Short brings his signature charm and playful mischief to every episode, keeping both contestants and celebrities on their toes. Whether he’s teasing panelists, improvising jokes, or just enjoying the absurdity of the answers, Short ensures that no two games are ever the same.

With decades of comedy experience—from SCTV and Saturday Night Live to Only Murders in the Building—Short is the perfect ringmaster for this hilarious circus. His chemistry with the celebrity panelists elevates the show, making each episode feel like a star-studded comedy roast where the only rule is to have fun.

2. Andrea Martin as Panelist

Comedy legend Andrea Martin (SCTV, My Big Fat Greek Wedding) brings her sharp humor and infectious energy to the Match Game panel. A master of improvisation, Martin’s answers are as unpredictable as they are hilarious, often leaving both the contestants and host in stitches. Her decades of experience in sketch comedy make her a standout player in every round.

Whether she’s delivering a perfectly timed one-liner or going delightfully off the rails with an outrageous response, Martin’s presence guarantees big laughs. Her playful rivalry with fellow panelists—especially longtime collaborator Martin Short—adds an extra layer of comedy gold.

3. BD Wong as Panelist

BD Wong (Law & Order: SVU, Jurassic Park) brings his signature wit and dry humor to the Match Game panel. Known for his sharp intellect and quick comebacks, Wong’s answers are as clever as they are unexpected, making him a fan favorite. His deadpan delivery contrasts perfectly with the show’s more over-the-top personalities.

Wong’s ability to switch between sly humor and absurdity keeps contestants guessing—will his answer be brilliantly logical or completely ridiculous? Either way, his presence adds a sophisticated yet playful edge to the game.

4. Selena Gomez as Panelist

Pop superstar and Only Murders in the Building co-star Selena Gomez joins the panel, bringing her charm and unexpected comedic chops to Match Game. Though best known for her music and acting, Gomez proves she can hold her own in a room full of comedians with her quick, often cheeky responses.

Her chemistry with Martin Short—reuniting after their hit Hulu series—makes for especially fun moments, as the two play off each other’s energy. Whether she’s delivering a sly punchline or laughing at the chaos around her, Gomez’s presence adds a fresh, playful dynamic to the show.

5. Cara Delevingne as Panelist

Model, actress, and wildcard Cara Delevingne (Suicide Squad, Only Murders in the Building) brings her unpredictable energy to the panel. Known for her offbeat humor and no-filter commentary, Delevingne’s answers range from bizarre to brilliant, keeping everyone on their toes.

Her playful rivalry with fellow panelists—especially when her responses go completely off the rails—makes for some of the season’s most memorable moments. Whether she’s making Martin Short break character or leaving contestants utterly confused, Delevingne is pure comedic chaos in the best way.

6. Thomas Lennon as Panelist

Comedy veteran Thomas Lennon (Reno 911!, The Odd Couple) is a Match Game powerhouse, delivering rapid-fire jokes and perfectly absurd answers. A master of improvisation, Lennon’s wit is as sharp as ever, making him a formidable opponent for contestants trying to match his responses.

His chemistry with the other panelists—especially fellow Reno 911! alumna Kerri Kenney-Silver (if she appears)—adds an extra layer of hilarity. Whether he’s crafting elaborate, ridiculous answers or deadpanning his way through a round, Lennon is a highlight of every episode.

7. Anthony Anderson as Panelist

Anthony Anderson (Black-ish, Law & Order) brings his big personality and infectious laugh to the panel. Known for his high-energy humor and playful competitiveness, Anderson’s answers are as entertaining as his reactions to everyone else’s responses.

His dynamic with host Martin Short—filled with playful jabs and exaggerated disbelief—makes for some of the show’s most laugh-out-loud moments. Whether he’s cracking up at a ridiculous answer or trying (and failing) to keep a straight face, Anderson is pure joy on screen.

8. Kevin Nealon as Panelist

Kevin Nealon (Saturday Night Live, Weeds) returns with his signature dry, slightly surreal humor. A Match Game favorite, Nealon’s answers often take unexpected twists, leaving contestants scrambling to keep up. His calm, deadpan delivery makes even the weirdest responses sound perfectly logical.

Nealon’s veteran comedy skills shine as he trades quips with Martin Short and the other panelists. Whether he’s crafting a bizarre non sequitur or delivering a perfectly timed punchline, he’s a master of the game.

9. Jackie Tohn as Panelist

Comedian and actress Jackie Tohn (GLOW, American Idol) brings her high-energy, no-holds-barred humor to the panel. Known for her bold, unfiltered comedy, Tohn’s answers are as wild as her personality, making her a standout player.

Her infectious enthusiasm and willingness to go all-out for a laugh make her a perfect fit for Match Game. Whether she’s riffing with the other celebrities or leaving the contestants in hysterics, Tohn is a guaranteed scene-stealer.

10. Robert Smigel as Panelist

Comedy writer and performer Robert Smigel (SNL, Conan) brings his sharp, satirical wit to the panel. Best known as the creator of Triumph the Insult Comic Dog, Smigel’s humor is both clever and delightfully absurd, making his answers unpredictable.

His dry, intellectual comedy contrasts hilariously with the show’s more chaotic personalities. Whether he’s crafting a perfectly absurd response or deadpanning his way through a round, Smigel’s presence elevates every episode.

11. Ana Gasteyer as Panelist

Ana Gasteyer (SNL, American Auto) returns with her signature blend of sharp wit and musical flair. A Match Game veteran, Gasteyer’s answers are as clever as they are funny, often delivered with her trademark theatricality.

Her chemistry with fellow SNL alums like Martin Short and Kevin Nealon makes for especially fun banter. Whether she’s crafting a witty quip or breaking into an impromptu song, Gasteyer is pure comedic gold.

12. Ego Nwodim as Panelist

Ego Nwodim (Saturday Night Live) brings her dynamic energy and spot-on impressions to the panel. Known for her versatility and quick humor, Nwodim’s answers are as unpredictable as her SNL characters.

Her ability to switch between sharp comedy and over-the-top silliness makes her a perfect fit for Match Game. Whether she’s matching answers or cracking up at the chaos around her, Nwodim is a delight to watch.

12. Pete Holmes as Panelist

Comedian Pete Holmes (Crashing, The Pete Holmes Show) brings his goofy, self-deprecating humor to the panel. Known for his infectious laugh and absurdist comedy, Holmes’ answers are as unpredictable as his stand-up.

His playful dynamic with the other panelists—especially when he’s laughing at his own jokes—makes for some of the season’s most endearing moments. Whether he’s crafting a bizarre response or just enjoying the madness, Holmes is pure fun.

13. Caroline Rhea as Panelist

Caroline Rhea (Sabrina the Teenage Witch, The Biggest Loser) returns with her sharp, sarcastic humor. A fan favorite, Rhea’s answers are as witty as her hosting style, making her a formidable player.

Her playful rivalry with the other celebrities—especially when she calls out ridiculous answers—adds an extra layer of comedy. Whether she’s delivering a perfectly timed jab or laughing at the absurdity, Rhea is a highlight.

14. Jay Pharoah as Panelist

Jay Pharoah (SNL, White Famous) brings his incredible impressions and rapid-fire humor to the panel. Known for his spot-on celebrity impressions, Pharoah’s answers often come with hilarious vocal twists.

His ability to improvise and keep the energy high makes him a standout. Whether he’s matching answers in character or cracking up the room, Pharoah is a must-watch.

15. Ziwe as Panelist

Comedian and provocateur Ziwe (Ziwe, A Black Lady Sketch Show) brings her bold, no-holds-barred humor to the panel. Known for her sharp social commentary and fearless comedy, Ziwe’s answers are as incisive as they are hilarious.

Her willingness to push boundaries—and call out absurdity—makes her a standout. Whether she’s roasting the other panelists or delivering a perfectly timed quip, Ziwe is unforgettable.

16. Phoebe Robinson as Panelist

Phoebe Robinson (2 Dope Queens, Everything’s Trash) brings her laid-back yet razor-sharp humor to the panel. Known for her pop culture savvy and relatable comedy, Robinson’s answers are as clever as they are funny.

Her chemistry with the other panelists—especially when she’s laughing at the chaos—makes for some of the season’s most charming moments. Whether she’s crafting a witty response or just enjoying the game, Robinson is pure joy.