What's My Line?

Definition

What's My Line? is a classic American television game show that originally aired from 1950 to 1967, featuring a panel of celebrities who attempt to guess the occupation of a mystery guest through a series of yes-or-no questions. The show became a cultural phenomenon during its run and is noted for its innovative format, engaging gameplay, and the use of humor and wit by the panelists. Its influence can be seen in many subsequent game shows and it played a significant role in shaping television entertainment during the Golden Age.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. What's My Line? was created by producer Mark Goodson and writer Bill Todman, making it one of the earliest successful television formats.
2. The show featured many famous mystery guests, including celebrities and notable public figures, which contributed to its popularity.
3. One unique aspect of the show was its inclusion of a 'mystery guest' segment where the panel had to guess the guest's identity while blindfolded.
4. The program was praised for its sophisticated tone and intellectual challenge compared to other game shows at the time, appealing to a wide audience.
5. What's My Line? won multiple Emmy Awards and is recognized as one of the longest-running game shows in American television history.

Review Questions

• How did What's My Line? influence the format and style of later television game shows?
  • What's My Line? set a precedent for future game shows with its unique combination of celebrity involvement, intellectual challenge, and humor. Its format encouraged interactive participation from the audience and inspired similar shows to include mystery elements. The show's success demonstrated that game shows could appeal to a more sophisticated audience while maintaining entertainment value, paving the way for diverse programming in the genre.
• In what ways did the celebrity panel enhance viewer engagement and contribute to the show's lasting appeal?
  • The celebrity panel on What's My Line? played a crucial role in attracting viewers, as audiences enjoyed watching well-known figures interact with each other and engage in witty banter. This element of star power created a sense of familiarity and connection with the audience. The humor and camaraderie displayed among panelists not only entertained but also encouraged viewers to participate mentally by guessing along, fostering a loyal fan base that contributed to the show's enduring popularity.
• Evaluate the impact of What's My Line? on American culture during its airing years and its legacy in contemporary television.
  • What's My Line? significantly impacted American culture by redefining game show entertainment through its sophisticated format and engaging content. During its airing years, it became a staple in family viewing and showcased cultural icons, reflecting societal interests and norms of the time. Its legacy persists in modern television with many contemporary shows borrowing elements from its structure and approach to audience engagement, proving that thoughtful programming can coexist with popular entertainment.

Related terms

Game Show: A television program in which contestants participate in games or quizzes to win prizes, often involving elements of chance and skill.

Panel Show: A type of game show featuring a group of celebrities or experts who discuss topics, answer questions, or provide commentary, often in a humorous format.

Mystery Guest: A special guest whose identity is concealed from the panelists and audience until revealed, used as a central element in various game shows.