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Today in 1964, a game show premiered that would forever raise the bar for fast-paced fun and audience excitement.
Jeopardy! debuted on March 30, 1964. The series quickly set a new standard for smart, fast-paced competition that continues to define game shows today.
According to the Museum of Play, the series was developed by talk show host Merv Griffin. He reportedly shared his dismay with his wife, Julann, about the lack of game shows that had question and answer responses.
Networks had moved away from that format after the 1950s, after many shows were accused of giving contestants the answers before the show. According to PBS, “The scandal did trigger amendments passed to the Communications Act in 1960. One amendment made it illegal for the outcomes of any contests of skill or knowledge, including quiz shows, to be put forward in any way that was pre-arranged. Another amendment required stations to make it clear on the air when money or other consideration has been received for broadcast material.”
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Julann had an idea for a new type of quiz show that gave contestants the answers, and they had to respond with the question. This element put a spin on the format and made it difficult for any type of cheating.
Griffin then took that idea and created a gameboard with 10 categories. The original name was What’s the Question?
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However, NBC executives were reportedly not enthused. According to the Museum of Play, Ed Vane told Griffin, “The game needs more jeopardies.” Thus, the series’ current name was born.
Hosts of Jeopardy! included Art Fleming, Alex Trebek, Mike Richards, Mayim Bialik, and the series current host, Ken Jennings.
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According to the official Jeopardy! Leaderboard, Jennings is the leader in consecutive game wins with 74. He is also at the top when it comes to highest winnings for regular season play at $2,520,700.
Jeopardy! airs weeknights in syndication.