Secrets And Trivia About The Most Popular ’90s Game Shows

They were entertaining, funny, and even controversial, but you were fascinated by them as well! Who was going to find love, win a million dollars, or perhaps even win a few great prizes? Learn more about those fabulous, fun and popular game shows from the ’90s, as well as some behind-the-scenes drama.

Family Feud

Family Feud has had a long history, from its first launch in 1976 to its reboot in 1985. Created by Mark Goodson, the show is infamous for the way it pits two families against each other, answering survey questions in the hopes of winning cash and prizes.

The show is still on TV in syndication, but it has also had its share of controversy and scandal. In 2000, Richard Gordon was arrested and charged with extorting money from the then-host, Louie Anderson (Gordon had reportedly demanded the money in exchange for keeping quiet that Anderson had asked him for bedroom love). The show continued to renew/resurrect with a variety of hosts. The most recent iteration featured Steve Harvey as the host, and the show celebrated 40 years with its most recent premier in September 2016.

Family Feud Host Ray Combs

One of Family Feud’s most popular hosts, Ray Combs, started his run with the show in 1988, after he signed on with a seven-year contract. Although Combs was funny and highly personable, ratings dropped during his tenure on Family Feud. He was eventually replaced by the original host, Richard Dawson, a move that hurt Combs deeply.

After taping of the final episode, Combs left the studio without saying goodbye to anyone. In the years after Family Feud, Combs struggled and despite some television appearances here and there, he never recovered completely professionally or personally. Tragically, he committed suicide in 1996.