Hollywood Squares: A Show That Combines Humor and Trivia
Hollywood Squares began as a daytime television series in 1966 and has become one of the most popular and enduring game shows of all time. Combining Hollywood celebrities with funny banter and clever trivia questions, the series has delighted viewers for over 50 years and is recognized by many as an important part of television history. Here’s a look at what made the show so iconic and memorable.
History of Hollywood Squares
The concept of Hollywood Squares was created by comedian Peter Marshall, who was inspired by the classic tic-tac-toe game. The original series ran from 1966 to 1981, hosted by Peter Marshall, and it featured an ever-rotating cast of celebrities that answered questions posed by the host. The Hollywood Squares series has been revived and updated several times since being cancelled in 1981. The revived versions of the show have included different hosts, sets, formats, and themes, but the core of the show is still the same.
What Makes Hollywood Squares So Popular?
Hollywood Squares has become a classic game show because it offers something for everyone. It combines witty banter between the celebrities and the host, plenty of off-the-wall questions, and hilarious antics. The show also features a unique format, involving a tic-tac-toe-style game between two contestants and two teams of celebrity panelists.
Notable Celebrity Guests On Hollywood Squares
Over its several decades on the air, Hollywood Squares has featured a variety of celebrity guests, from popular actors to well-known comedians. Some of the most notable guests have included:
• Paul Lynde was a regular panelist from 1966 to 1981, providing some of the most memorable one-liners in the show’s history.
• Betty White, who appeared on the show from 1967 to 1980.
• Joan Rivers, who appeared from 1974 to 1980.
• Whoopi Goldberg, who joined the show in 1998.
• Neil Patrick Harris, who appeared from 2001 to 2004.
• Amy Poehler, who appeared in 2008 and 2009.
• Pee-Wee Herman, appearing in 1999 and 2000.
The Gameplay of Hollywood Squares
The format of the game is simple, but devilishly clever. Two contestants play an “Xs” and “Os” game of tic-tac-toe against two teams of celebrity panelists. Each celebrity panelist is presented with a question, and their answer denotes the position of the “X” or “O” in the game. Points are awarded to the contestant who successfully connects the three “Xs” or “Os” either vertically, horizontally, or diagonally. After nine rounds, the contestant with the most points wins the game.
The Challenges of Being a Contestant
The Hollywood Squares game is deceptively difficult. The questions and answers can be quite tricky, and the celebrities’ answers can be quite unpredictable. Additionally, the contestants have to pay close attention to the celebrities’ answers and the questions in order to make their decisions. It requires the contestants to think on their feet and make quick decisions.
A modern twist: Virtual Hollywood Squares
In 2017, the show added a new twist to the format. Rather than being limited to celebrity guests, the show offered fans the opportunity to play the game virtually. Participants sent in their questions and answers by video to be broadcast on the show. They were evaluated in the same way as the celebrity contestants, and the highest scoring fans could be featured on the show.
Hollywood Squares has been delighting viewers and challenging contestants for decades. Its unique combination of celebrity guests, smart trivia questions, and witty banter make it a classic that viewers of all ages can enjoy. The revival of the show, featuring the addition of virtual contestants, proves that this classic has staying power. Hollywood Squares will continue to entertain viewers for years to come.
