AceShowbiz - Host Joe Manganiello set the tone for an electrifying new season of "Deal or No Deal Island" by announcing a twist that left both contestants and viewers buzzing: the new Banker is none other than Chrissy Teigen.

With her history as a briefcase model during the original series launch in 2005, Teigen's new role brings her journey full circle, taking her from opening briefcases to facing off with contestants, including David Genat and Alexis Lete, in the high-stakes Banker's Temple for over $10 million.

Teigen's passion for the show played a significant role in her return. She told Entertainment Weekly, "I love the show! I watched the first season - riveting, amazing, incredible. I'm a TV junkie. I was addicted from the first episode."

Reflecting on her initial stint on "Deal or No Deal", Teigen revealed how the experience shaped her career in entertainment. "I don't know if I would've continued on in entertainment if I didn't have such a good experience on that set," she recounted.

The announcement of Teigen as the new Banker was kept under wraps throughout the season, with small hints such as a box of swimsuits and the name of her cookbook teasing the audience. Guesses ranged from Kelly Clarkson to Barbara Corcoran before the ultimate reveal.

Howie Mandel, who served as the Banker in the first season, passed the torch to Teigen in a playful video shared on social media. "OK, so here's some advice for the new Banker for the finale. Always... No, never... Anyways, good luck," he said before Teigen took over with a confident, "Thanks, Howie! I'll take it from here."

For Teigen, the return to Deal or No Deal Island provided both nostalgia and a new challenge. Speaking with PEOPLE, she shared, "I was a nervous little girl when I did this before. I just didn't have that kind of confidence yet. To come back so many years later in this fashion is just unreal."

Now, as the Banker, she wields a power that contrasts sharply with her supportive nature. "I'm not competitive at all. I don't like big stakes. In board games, in anything that we do with my kids, I'm just happy for other people to succeed," she admitted.

As the finale approaches, fans eagerly await to see either Australian Survivor winner David Genat or professional wrestler Alexis Lete challenge Teigen in the finale episode airing March 25 at 9/8c on NBC. This unique blend of nostalgia, high stakes, and Teigen's magnetic presence promises a thrilling season conclusion.