The confession box has finally wound its way to the living room, thanks to American ‘game show’ The Moment of Truth and at least 23 international offshoots. Except, millions get to watch as seemingly suicidal participants yank open closet doors to give their horror-movie skeletons a good airing. And the combination of sex, truths and videocameras has invited heated reactions long before Sach ka Saamna ever aired. A journey back:

The concept

The Moment of Truth was born in Colombia as Nothing More than the Truth, based on a concept by executive producer Howard Schultz. It quickly became popular, and premiered in America in 2008 to high ratings. While some critics allege that the premise is diabolical, the participants are rather Faustian. Except that instead of knowledge or power, it’s a jackpot of $500,000 they’re after. “With mechanisms for their protection (they can leave at any time), they are driving the bus but that doesn’t stop them from driving it off a cliff,” says host Mark Walberg. Many times, participants have left the with no money, a bad rep and torn relationships.

Selection and questions

Even the apparently normal are eligible. Fox executive Mike Darnell told TV Week “the most average person”is the best candidate. Once you’re selected, the producers research your background and conduct extensive interviews with family and friends. Howard Schultz told LA Times, “We tell them we’re going to reach as deep into their lives as we can. Anything is fair game.”

Controversies

•In June, 2009, the watchdog Greek National Council for Radio and Television banned the country’s version of the show for lacking “decency” (one high — or low — point was when a man admitted to lusting after his sister’s boyfriend). It had earlier fined broadcaster Antenna. Now, the matter could end up in the European Court of Justice, with Antenna alleging “extreme censorship”. In a letter to the watchdog, a lofty Schultz quoted Socrates (know thyself) and John the Apostle (the truth will set you free).

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