Richard Dawson
- Born:
- Colin Lionel Emm, November 20, 1932, Gosport, Hampshire, England
- Died:
- June 2, 2012, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Nationality:
- British-American
- Profession(s):
- Actor, Comedian, Game Show Host
Early Life and Education
- Born Colin Lionel Emm in England, he later adopted the stage name Richard Dawson.
- Served in the British Merchant Navy.
Career and Major Achievements
- Began his entertainment career as a stand-up comedian and actor in the United Kingdom.
- Gained prominence as Corporal Peter Newkirk on the television sitcom Hogan's Heroes (1965-1971).
- Hosted Family Feud from 1976 to 1985 and again from 1994 to 1995. His tenure significantly boosted the show's popularity.
- Won a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Game Show Host in 1978 for his work on Family Feud.
- Appeared as a panelist on Match Game (1973-1978).
Notable Works
| Year | Title | Role | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1965-1971 | Hogan's Heroes | Corporal Peter Newkirk | Television Series |
| 1973-1978 | Match Game | Panelist | Television Game Show |
| 1976-1985, 1994-1995 | Family Feud | Host | Television Game Show |
| 1987 | Running Man | Damon Killian | Film |
Legacy and Impact
Richard Dawson is best known as the charismatic and often controversial host of Family Feud. His unique style of humor and interaction with contestants redefined the game show genre. He is remembered as one of the iconic figures to take on the role of being among the previous family feud hosts biography section.