American Ninja Warrior's Matt Iseman Gives the Lowdown on the Latest Idaho Ninjas

Idaho Today host Mellisa Paul spoke to Matt Iseman, one of the hosts of Season 16 of NBC's American Ninja Warrior. The action-packed competition summertime series starring Matt Iseman and Akbar Gbajabiamila is back in full swing, and the contestants keep getting younger and savvier in their training than ever as the mental prep is a huge part of tackling the obstacles, too. Viewers know it takes guts and planning in training to successfully run the gauntlet of upper and lower body challenges in the souped-up and shiny obstacle course.  Most Idahoans know of the famous Cowboy Ninja Lance Pekus, but the popular Salmon, Idaho rancher, is not quitting the series and will appear this season, too. Matt told Mellisa all about the Idaho Ninjas and what was to come. 

Matt Iseman has hosted American Ninja Warrior since 2010 and isn't quitting anytime soon. This doctor-turned-TV star had a long road of unique TV roles between the time he set out to make a name for himself as a standup and found himself on reality, and talk shows that allowed his natural sense of humor to shine.

Long before Matt reached the top of TV, he achieved a great deal, earning his medical degree from Columbia University. But he quickly realized standup comedy was more his speed. His father supported his decision to do comedy and leave medicine. Matt began his hosting career on "Scream Play" for E! and "Casino Night" for GSN. He was a Hallmark's Home & Family regular, and he still does numerous speaking engagements and comedy stand up shows in between his taping schedule for American Ninja Warrior. 

Iseman's path has been challenging. His ongoing battle with Rheumatoid Arthritis has him serving as a vocal supporter of the Arthritis Foundation, the charity he represented while winning Celebrity Apprentice. He also survived a battle with Renal Cell Carcinoma, which has made him a spokesperson for the American Cancer Society. He also supports the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and is an Armed Services Arts Partnership Ambassador.

The secret to the addictive competition is the lightning in a bottle, which is Iseman and Akbar Gbajabiamila's chemistry. The two are pure energy and delight and cheer on kids from all over the country, along with co-host Zuri Hall. This dynamic team calls the action as the ninjas make their way through the qualifying and semifinal rounds in Los Angeles before moving to the national finals in Las Vegas. The series continues with the significant changes from last season, as the semis will challenge the ninjas to race side-by-side and head-to-head across a high-stakes course with a spot in the national finals. 

All four stages in Vegas return, including the Stage 4 rope climb for $1 Million. In season 16, the athletes range from 15 to 70 years old. Matt is always quick to point out the Ninja love matches, marriages, and even Ninja babies he has seen blossom over time. 

Make sure to keep Channel 7 on for the Olympics, too. Matt and Akbar will announce the Paris Olympics for NBC Sports / Peacock's Gold Zone, streaming live daily from July 27 through Aug. 10. 

TUNE IN: American Ninja Warrior - Season 16 airs Mondays at 8 pm ET/PT on NBC, with the most elite athletes in the country competing on the world's most challenging obstacle courses.