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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....

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,its a jackpot of 500,000 theyre after. With mechanisms for their protection they can leave at any time,they are driving the bus but that doesnt 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 personis the best candidate. Once youre selected,the producers research your background and conduct extensive interviews with family and friends. Howard Schultz told LA Times,We tell them were going to reach as deep into their lives as we can. Anything is fair game.

Controversies

amp;149;In June,2009,the watchdog Greek National Council for Radio and Television banned the countrys version of the show for lacking decency one high or low point was when a man admitted to lusting after his sisters 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.

amp;149;In 2007,Colombia cancelled the show after a woman admitted shed hired a contract killer to bump off her husband. She added,The hitman tipped off my husband and he ran away forever. God save me. Schultz later said,It was crazy to have the Colombian government intervene. Some people think exposing the truth is a bad thing. Unlike the graphic Colombian version,Americas show doesnt allow x-rated questions.

amp;149;It was touted as the show that we almost didnt air because it was so controversial,but Lauren Cleri did make it and soon became known as Americas most hated woman for confessions on theft,adulterous leanings and preferring to feed dogs rather than homeless people. She got no money,however,after she said yes when asked if she thought she was a good person. The show broke up her marriage.