Hollywood Squares first aired in 1965, running into the 1980s in its original form. Hosted by the charismatic Peter Marshall, the show pitted Hollywood's funniest and most famous against each other in a game designed to produce funniest quips and one-liners.
Although there is a modern version, there is something about the '70s version that perfectly captures its moment in time.
"eBaum's World calls it the funniest gameshow of the '70s..."
2
As host of The Hollywood Squares in the late 1970s.
3
Paul Lynde was a fan favorite, and full of camp jokes.
4
Demond Wilson, Rose Marie, John Davidson, Rod McKuen, Paul Lynde, Karen Valentine, Charley Weaver, aka Cliff Arquette, and Rich Little.
5
Peter Marshall allegedly only agreed to host because he did not want rival Dan Rowan to host. He held the job for 15 years.
6
Doing a bit where he pretends to guide and crash an airplane into his square.
7
Paul Lynde, Rose Marie, host Peter Marshall and Cliff Arquette as Charley Weaver.
8
Many celebrities were given writers, and shown questions beforehand to spruce up answers. There was a small disclaimer at the end of each episode disclosing this.
12
A brief spin-off called Storybook Squares aimed to make a children's version of the show, but ultimately failed.
13
Originally airing just once a week, it was bumped up to twice a week in the mid '70s, and was airing nightly by 1980.
14
Sitting in the middle.
15
Making dinner in the bottom left-hand corner square.
16
Over time, Lynde became the regular center square. He earned three Emmy nominations for his quick wit.
17
Lynde often alluded to his closeted sexuality on the show.
18
Although many jokes in the show were scripted, the gameplay was not.
20
Teaming up to be a celebrity square.
