American Ninja Warrior returns to NBC this Monday, kicking off its 17th season with the first round of qualifying heats. The action takes place in Las Vegas, where contestants take on what’s touted as the world’s toughest obstacle course. Airing at 8 PM ET, Qualifiers 1 brings back familiar faces, from trailblazers and record-breakers to diehard fan favorites eager for a rematch with gravity.
The Vegas course is a star in its own right, designed to push athletes to their limits with a blend of strength, speed, and strategy tests. For the uninitiated, ANW plays out across regional qualifying rounds, culminating in the national finals—also held in Vegas, on a four-stage behemoth inspired by Japan’s Mt. Midoriyama.
While the show’s core format feels familiar, the network is touting this season as “bigger than ever” — and with a lineup stacked with returning vets, the stage looks set for a few nail-biting finishes right out of the gate. For viewers who like their feats of strength served with a side of human interest, ANW continues to walk that tightrope with dependable skill.
“American Ninja Warrior” airs Monday, June 2 at 8:00 PM ET on NBC.
