The History of the Game Show

The 1923 launch of the “Brooklyn Eagle Quiz on Current Events” marked the earliest known mass-media game show, beginning a genre that evolved from radio to television and streaming. Despite scandals, investigations, and predictions of decline, game shows endured and flourished. Producer Bob Boden explores their century-long history, from early radio quizzes and the 1950s quiz-show boom to enduring hits like Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune, revealing why they remain a beloved entertainment staple.