First begun on the radio with programs like “Break the Bank” and “Information Please,” quiz shows took on a new light and increased cash and prize possibilities after breaking into television.

The quiz show scandal in 1958 initiated by contestant Charles Van Doren, who admitted the producers of the brainy show “Twenty-One” gave him questions in advance, almost knocked quiz shows off the air. Game shows eventually regained footing and continued, offering smaller prizes for less brainy questions.

A variety of popular quiz shows have followed: “What’s My Line?” presented a celebrity panel in pursuit of the contestant’s occupation, “Let’s Make a Deal” highlighted a costume-clad audience who traded cash for prizes behind doors # 1,2, or 3, “The Price is Right” had contestants guess the retail price of select items, “Family Feud” featured contestant families trying to guess popular answers to any given question, “Jeopardy” featured players with encyclopedic knowledge, and contestants of “The Wheel of Fortune” spun a wheel for $ amounts awarded for accurately guessed letters.

©Lori S. Anton