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Do you remember the fun game show Password, hosted by the beloved Allen Ludden? That’s right - Password Allen Ludden! From 1961 to 1967 on CBS and 1971 to 1975 on ABC, this iconic television game show put two teams of celebrities against each other, who needed to guess the secret password before their opponents. This unique game show that tested the player’s ability to make a mental connection has won the hearts of millions of viewers both past and present. For many, “Password” is a favorite memory of their childhood. This article explores the life and legacy of Allen Ludden and his most-loved game show.
1. Who Was Allen Ludden?
Allen Ludden was an American television personality best known as the host of the television game show “Password”. He was born in Mineral Point, Wisconsin on October 5th, 1917, and attended the University of Texas in Austin, Texas where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in speech and English in 1940.
Before becoming the face of “Password” in 1961, Allen was a successful radio host and the host of The G.E. College Bowl from 1958-1960. He was also a regular panelist on GE True, a syndicated version of the popular game show,” What’s My Line”. Allen was well-liked by the public and won the respect of panelists like Steve Allen.
- Early Career
- Ludden’s Impact on TV
2. How Did Allen Ludden Create Password?
The Birth of Password
Allen Ludden, a popular television host, is credited as the inventor of the game we know today as Password. This game was part of his show “Password,” which ran from 1961 to 1967. To play the game, two contestants would take turns to guess a word or phrase based on a one-word clue given by their teammates.
The concept of Password was inspired by Ludden’s experience with a game called “Consequences.” This game was created in 1955 by Don Reid and John Cameron Swayze and spawned from the popular “Storytelling” game. In Consequences, two players would take turns writing down a single word on a piece of paper, and the resulting phrases would have to be guessed by the other player. Ludden saw the potential in this game and made some improvements to the format to create ”Password”.
Evolution of Password
Having seen the success of Password, NBC decided to bring the game to the wider public in 1975. This new version, called “Password Plus,” refined some of the original rules and added in some new elements, such as a Super Password and Bonus Round. This adaptation of the game was met with huge audience support and was even syndicated for six more seasons.
Password also spawned various spin-offs of the game, such as Family Feud. This version was adapted for families and made the game more accessible to everyone. To date, various versions of Password still exist, proving the longevity of Allen Ludden’s invention.
3. What Were the Personal Experiences That Shaped Allen Ludden’s Life?
The Early Years
Allen Ludden was born into a life of privilege and luxury in Mineral Point, Wisconsin. His father, an advertising executive, moved the family around the US and Mexico during Ludden’s childhood. Ludden was an incredibly talented student, performing well in music, art, and literature. He became the president of his high school student body and graduated with a degree in speech from the University of Texas.
The Army
In 1942, Ludden enlisted in the US Army as a lieutenant. He served in the South Pacific Theatre and was eventually assigned to the operations branch of a mortar battalion. Ludden was often recognized for his exemplary leadership and tactical prowess during this time. Afterward, he moved on to entertaining his fellow lieutenants with stories and impressions, foreshadowing his career in television. Upon being discharged from the army, he earned multiple medals that celebrated his courage and skill.
4. How Did Allen Ludden Inspire A Generation of TV Game Show Hosts?
Breaking Barriers and Inspiring a Nation
Allen Ludden was an enormously popular television personality known primarily for his role as the host of “Password.” His popularity was such that he elevated the game show industry to a whole new level and inspired a generation of future game show hosts.
He was the first host to make the game show an art form. With his affable wit and charm, he developed a unique style of hosting that allowed viewers to become part of the action. Whether it was cracking jokes with the contestants, or simply displaying his confidence and knowledge of the subject, Allen was able to make his show entertaining and engaging.
Furthermore, Allen led the charge to reconcile the racial and gender divide that had previously strangled the game show industry. He welcomed contestants of all backgrounds, ages, and genders, breaking down long-standing barriers that had previously kept certain groups from participating in game shows. His example of inclusiveness helped set a new standard, and soon thereafter women and people of color were becoming regular contestants on various game shows.
In his special way, Allen had made game shows respectful, diverse, and exciting. The hosts that he inspired took the baton and ran with it, creating beloved game shows that remain popular today.
Q&A
Q: Who was Password Allen Ludden?
A: Password Allen Ludden was an American television game show host and personality. He was best known for his popular game show “Password.” Ludden hosted the popular game show from 1961 to 1980.
Q: What type of game was Password?
A: Password Allen Ludden hosted the popular game show “Password”. The game show was based on two teams trying to guess each other’s secret passwords. The teams were given a one-word clue and took turns guessing the passwords.
Q: How did Allen Ludden become a game show host?
A: Allen Ludden was an actor who started working on television in 1950. He started hosting game shows in 1961 when he was chosen to be the host of “Password”. This game show went on to become one of the most popular television shows of the 1960s.
Q: What awards did Allen Ludden receive?
A: Allen Ludden was a very popular game show host. He received numerous awards for his work. He was honored with three Emmy Awards, the Hollywood Squares Salute Award, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Ludden also received the 1966 Peabody Award for excellence in broadcasting.
Conclusion
When it comes to password management and cybersecurity, Allen Ludden’s work is still proving invaluable today. Fortunately, there is a secure yet simple way to manage your passwords with confidence. is an excellent choice and a great way to ensure that your information is safe and secure. This FREE account features robust authentication tools that provide the industry’s highest levels of password security and management. With Allen Ludden in mind, feel confident in managing your passwords with LogMeOnce.
Sabrina, a graduate of the Polytechnic University with a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature, is a highly motivated instructor and content writer with over 11 years of experience. Her dedication to education extends across Asia, where she has successfully trained students and adult learners. Sabrina’s expertise lies in curriculum development and the implementation of effective learning strategies to achieve organizational goals. With her passion for teaching and wealth of experience, she continues to make a positive impact in the field of education.
