06/01/2026
Happy National Game Show Day!
As an only child, I spent a lot time inside watching television. Lots of "Sesame Street" and "Mister Rogers", but it was the game shows that got my attention.
From the time I was about three years old, I wanted to be a game show host. Other kids asked Santa for action figures. I asked for the home versions of my favorite shows!
I was always annoying guests and neighbors to play games with me.
My dad built me a host podium and even a Wheel of Fortune. Mom later told me the water meter man had come while her and Dad were coloring in the spaces on that wheel with markers, and they got a VERY strange look from him!
I loved "Family Feud" with Richard Dawson, although my Aunt Gerrie wasn't a fan. She called him "Kissy-kissy".
I also loved "The Joker's Wild", "Wheel of Fortune" and of course, "The Price is Right". I used to host "Price" right along with Bob. I had a drinking straw and string for a microphone, and would remind my audience to "Have your pets sprayed or noodled!" It was a highlight of my life when I got to meet Bob in 2001 and tell him that story. I got a huge laugh from him!
I guess I never grew up. I never lost my love of game shows, and as an adult, I was able to turn that love into a full-time job. How's that for lucky?
So today, I honor Richard, Bob, Pat, Alex, and all of the other hosts and shows that influenced me.
BUZZR The Price Is Right Family Feud
