1. The Price Is Right – The Perfect Bid
Ted Slauson stunned audiences when he nailed the exact price of a showcase, a rare feat in the show’s long history. His deep knowledge of prices made him a game show legend, and it remains one of the most talked-about moments in The Price Is Right history.
2. Family Feud – The Infamous “Turkey” Answer
During Family Feud, a contestant answered “Turkey” five times in a Fast Money round, leaving both the host and audience in stitches. This moment has lived on in game show lore as one of the funniest and most bizarre responses ever.
3. Who Wants to Be a Millionaire – John Carpenter’s Cool Confidence
John Carpenter became the first U.S. contestant to win $1 million, famously using his Phone-a-Friend lifeline to call his dad—not for help, but to tell him he was about to win. His calm demeanor and confidence made this a standout moment in the show’s history.
4. Jeopardy! – Ken Jennings’ Streak Ends
Ken Jennings’ record-breaking 74-game winning streak on Jeopardy! ended in dramatic fashion when he was stumped by the Final Jeopardy! clue about H&R Block. His unprecedented run transformed him into a household name and remains a highlight in game show history.
5. Wheel of Fortune – The “New Baby Buggy” Guess
Contestant Emil de Leon shocked viewers by solving a nearly impossible Wheel of Fortune puzzle with just two letters revealed, guessing “New Baby Buggy.” His remarkable guess is still celebrated as one of the most impressive in the show’s history.
6. Press Your Luck – Michael Larson’s Strategy
Michael Larson memorized the patterns on Press Your Luck’s game board, exploiting them to win over $110,000. His clever strategy stunned producers and has since become one of the most infamous moments in game show history.
7. The Gong Show – The “Gene Gene the Dancing Machine” Phenomenon
The Gong Show was full of wacky moments, but none were as beloved as “Gene Gene the Dancing Machine.” His surprise dance routines brought joy and unpredictability, cementing his status as a fan favorite.
8. Match Game – Charles Nelson Reilly’s Wit
Known for his quick wit and flamboyant personality, Charles Nelson Reilly provided countless memorable moments on Match Game. His humorous banter and clever responses helped make the show a classic of the 1970s.
9. To Tell the Truth – The Betty White Impostor
A memorable episode of To Tell the Truth featured Betty White as a contestant claiming to be someone else. Her playful deception and the panel’s surprise made for an unforgettable game show moment.
10. Let’s Make a Deal – The Zonks
The unpredictable “Zonks” on Let’s Make a Deal led to some of the wildest and funniest moments on the show. Contestants would go from elation to dismay upon realizing they’d traded for a joke prize, adding an unforgettable twist to the game.
11. $64,000 Question – The Scandal
In the 1950s, The $64,000 Question became embroiled in a scandal when it was revealed that some contestants were given answers in advance. This controversy shook the game show world and led to a wave of stricter regulations in the industry.
12. Truth or Consequences – Bob Barker’s Early Days
Before hosting The Price Is Right, Bob Barker was known for his time on Truth or Consequences. We didn’t know at the time, but we were watching part of a great, TV-defining career unfold and build right before our eyes, and it perfectly showed off his good humor and set the tone for his long career in game shows.
13. Double Dare – The Slime Explosion
Double Dare was famous for its messy physical challenges, and one of the most memorable moments came when a contestant triggered an epic slime explosion. The sheer chaos and fun of it embodied the show’s playful spirit.
14. Hollywood Squares – Paul Lynde’s One-Liners
Paul Lynde’s quick-witted and often risqué one-liners as the center square on Hollywood Squares became legendary. His sharp humor and memorable quips made him a standout, ensuring that his moments are still celebrated today.
Game shows have always been a unique blend of humor, strategy, and unexpected surprises. These moments remind us of the joy, drama, and laughter that only classic game shows could deliver, leaving lasting memories for generations of viewers.
