Chapter
The Rise of Game Shows on Television
04:30 - 07:58 (03:28)
Game shows started appearing on US television in 1939 and by the 50s, they were some of the top-rated shows. Contests had to answer before a buzzer went off to avoid facing bizarre consequences such as mock executions.
Clips
The first game show, Spelling Bee, launched in Great Britain in 1938 and was hosted by Freddie Griswood.
04:30 - 05:51 (01:21)
Game Shows
Summary
The first game show, Spelling Bee, launched in Great Britain in 1938 and was hosted by Freddie Griswood. Despite being unpopular with audiences, it inspired a craze and soon led to the creation of popular American game shows like You Bet Your Life and What's My Line?
ChapterThe Rise of Game Shows on Television
EpisodeSelects: How Game Shows Work
PodcastStuff You Should Know
Game shows became popular on TV in the US in the 50s, with some of the top-rated shows being in this category.
05:51 - 07:58 (02:07)
Game Shows
Summary
Game shows became popular on TV in the US in the 50s, with some of the top-rated shows being in this category. Viewers who did not answer before a buzzer sounded would face wild consequences.