18 Celebrities Who Became Famous On Retro Game Shows
Retro game shows weren’t just a blast to watch—they were star-making machines in disguise! Long before these celebs were headlining movies, topping charts, or collecting Emmys, they were nervously adjusting their collars and flashing charming smiles on shows like The Dating Game, Match Game, and Password.
Who knew the awkward guy asking about dream vacations would go on to become an Oscar winner? Or that the quick-witted contestant matching wits with Betty White would someday headline a hit sitcom? These game shows were a quirky training ground, mixing cheesy music with unexpected talent.
And while the prizes were usually a blender or a trip to Cleveland, the real win was national exposure. So grab your imaginary buzzer and prepare to be amazed as we take a hilarious and heartwarming look back at 18 stars who got their humble start by spinning wheels, answering goofy questions, and charming audiences one retro moment at a time.
1. Farrah Fawcett – The Dating Game
Farrah Fawcett, long before her iconic role as a Charlie’s Angel, was winning hearts on The Dating Game. Picture this: the late ’60s, a set adorned with psychedelic colors, and Farrah, with that iconic feathered hair, choosing from mystery bachelors. Her charm was undeniable, and she picked her date with a mischievous smile.
That hair! It was as much a celebrity as she was. The bachelorette round was less of a game and more of a Farrah fan club meeting. Each question she asked had the bachelors on the edge of their seats, hoping to win a date with the future star.
Spoiler alert: the hair was still the star of the show. Even as she made her choice, it was clear that Farrah was destined for much more than just a date. She was on the fast track to stardom.
2. Steve Martin – The Dating Game
Steve Martin, the wild and crazy guy we all know and love, was once a contestant on The Dating Game. Yes, before the comedy albums and movies, Steve was charming a studio audience and a mystery date. His humor was infectious even back then.
Imagine a young Steve with his unmistakable silver hair, already delivering zingers that had everyone in stitches. The bachelors beside him never stood a chance. His wit was razor-sharp, and his charisma, undeniable.
The audience couldn’t get enough, and neither could his date. It’s no wonder Steve became a comedy legend. If laughter was the best medicine, then Steve’s appearance on The Dating Game was a full prescription. Who wouldn’t say yes to a date with someone so funny?
3. Sally Field – What’s My Line?
Sally Field, post-Gidget and pre-Oscar, was a mystery guest on What’s My Line? The panelists had to guess her identity, but for the audience, it was hard to miss her infectious smile and sweet demeanor.
Picture a young Sally, trying to disguise her voice as the panelists asked questions. Her playful spirit shone through, even as she tried to remain incognito. It was a delightful game of cat and mouse.
Despite the mystery, Sally’s charm was evident. The audience adored her, and the panelists were stumped, showcasing her talent to entertain even without a script. Sally’s appearance on What’s My Line? was a stepping stone to the illustrious career she enjoys today.
4. Arnold Schwarzenegger – The Dating Game
Before he was the Terminator, Arnold Schwarzenegger was flexing his muscles on The Dating Game. A super-jacked mystery man hoping to win a date, Arnold was as charming as he was fit.
Imagine a young Arnold, with that thick Austrian accent, answering questions with charisma and a smile. He was a bachelor who stood out, not just because of his physique, but because of his personality.
The ladies were swooning, and the audience couldn’t get enough. It was Mission: accomplished for Arnold, who was clearly destined for more than just a date. His appearance on The Dating Game was just the beginning of a storied career in Hollywood.
5. Tom Selleck – The Dating Game
Tom Selleck, before he became Magnum, P.I., was charming audiences on The Dating Game. With his trademark mustache and a smile that could light up a room, Tom was the epitome of a dashing bachelor.
Imagine him answering questions with that smooth voice, making the audience and the bachelorettes swoon. His charisma was undeniable, and his presence, magnetic.
Tom Selleck may not have won every round, but he won hearts. It was clear from the start that Tom was headed for stardom. The Dating Game was just a stepping stone for this future TV icon.
6. John Ritter – Password
Long before he was cracking us up in Three’s Company, John Ritter was a natural on Password. His charm and wit were evident, making him a crowd favorite from the get-go.
Picture a young John, with that infectious smile and quick thinking, engaging with the host and audience. He was a natural, delivering clever responses that had everyone laughing.
John’s appearance on Password was a glimpse into the comedic brilliance that would define his career. He was a total natural on camera, and it was clear he was meant for the spotlight.
7. Michael Jackson – The Dating Game
In the days of the Jackson 5, a young Michael Jackson appeared on The Dating Game, and it was pure adorableness. Alongside one of his brothers, young MJ was a charming contestant.
Picture a tiny Michael, full of energy and ready to steal the show. His presence was electric, and his talent, undeniable. Even as a young contestant, he had the audience in the palm of his hand.
The Dating Game was just one of many stages for Michael, but his appearance hinted at the superstar he would become. Extra adorable and immensely talented, MJ was destined for greatness.
8. Kirstie Alley – Match Game
Before she was making us laugh on Cheers, Kirstie Alley was a sassy contestant on Match Game. Her bold answers and quick wit made her a standout.
Imagine a young Kirstie, with her striking features and confident demeanor, facing the panel. Her sass was unmatched, and the audience loved every minute.
Kirstie’s appearance on Match Game was more than just a game; it was an introduction to a star. Her boldness and charisma were evident, and it was clear she was destined for the spotlight.
9. Joey Fatone – Nick Arcade
Long before he was part of NSYNC, Joey Fatone was competing on Nick Arcade. The early ’90s show was a kid’s dream, and Joey was living it.
Picture a young Joey, full of enthusiasm, taking on video game challenges with gusto. His charisma was evident, even as a kid, and he was clearly a natural performer.
Joey’s time on Nick Arcade was just the beginning of his journey to stardom. Look closely at reruns, and you might just spot the future pop star, full of energy and charm.
10. Dr. Phil – Hollywood Squares
Dr. Phil, before he was Oprah’s TV-famous bestie, appeared on Hollywood Squares. Not a contestant, but as a celeb square, Dr. Phil’s presence was unmistakable.
Imagine him, with that iconic mustache, engaging with other celebrity squares and delivering his insights. His wisdom and humor shone through, even in a game show setting.
Though not a contestant, Dr. Phil’s appearance on Hollywood Squares was a precursor to his future TV career. The mustache was strong, and so was his charisma.
11. David Letterman – The Gong Show
A young David Letterman took the stage on The Gong Show, cracking jokes and hoping to avoid getting gonged. It was a comedic battle, and Dave was in his element.
Picture a fresh-faced Letterman, delivering jokes with his trademark dry wit. The audience was entertained, even as the gong loomed.
Though he got gonged, David would have the last laugh. The Gong Show was just a stepping stone to his legendary career in late-night television. Dave’s comedy was timeless, and the world was about to find out.
12. LeVar Burton – To Tell the Truth
Before Roots and Reading Rainbow, LeVar Burton appeared on To Tell the Truth. The panel had to figure out which of three people was the real LeVar.
Imagine a young LeVar, full of charisma, standing confidently as the panelists asked questions. His presence was engaging, and his smile, captivating.
The show was a challenge, but LeVar’s talent was undeniable. His appearance on To Tell the Truth was a hint at the impactful career he would go on to have. The world was ready to meet the real LeVar Burton.
13. Vanna White – The Price Is Right
Before she was turning letters on Wheel of Fortune, Vanna White was a contestant on The Price Is Right. With her bright smile and enthusiasm, Vanna was ready to win.
Picture a young Vanna, full of energy, bidding her heart out. Though she didn’t win big, her charm was evident.
Vanna’s appearance on The Price Is Right was a prelude to her future fame. The audience loved her, and it was clear she was destined for more than just a game show stage.
14. Billy Crystal – The Hollywood Squares
Billy Crystal, before his big break in stand-up and film, was making his mark on The Hollywood Squares. A fresh-faced comic, Billy was already a pro at engaging audiences.
Imagine him in one of the squares, delivering quick-witted responses and charming everyone. His humor was infectious, and his talent, undeniable.
Billy’s appearance on The Hollywood Squares was just a taste of the brilliance he would bring to comedy. The audience loved him, and it was clear he was a star in the making.
15. Andy Kaufman – The Dating Game
Andy Kaufman was a contestant on The Dating Game, and it was everything you would expect: awkward, uncomfortable, and hilarious.
Picture Andy, with his unique comedic style, delivering lines that had the audience both confused and amused. His performance was classic Kaufman, unpredictable and unforgettable.
Though he didn’t follow the usual script, Andy’s appearance on The Dating Game was a reflection of his genius. He broke the mold, and the world was better for it.
16. Suzanne Somers – The Dating Game
Pre-Three’s Company, Suzanne Somers tried her luck on The Dating Game. A young hopeful, Suzanne was ready to win the heart of a mystery bachelor.
Imagine her with a radiant smile, answering questions with charm and wit. Her presence was magnetic, and the audience could feel it.
Suzanne’s appearance on The Dating Game was a glimpse into the star she would become. Her charisma was undeniable, and it was clear she was destined for bigger things.
17. Aaron Paul – The Price Is Right
Though technically post-’60s/’70s, Aaron Paul’s appearance on The Price Is Right is too good to skip. A young Aaron, full of energy, lost his mind as a contestant.
Picture him jumping and cheering, his excitement off the charts as he placed his bids. The audience couldn’t get enough of his enthusiasm.
Aaron didn’t win big, but his appearance was unforgettable. It was clear he had the charisma and presence of a star. The Price Is Right was just the first of many stages for Aaron Paul.
18. Mark Harmon – The Dating Game
Long before NCIS fame, Mark Harmon made multiple appearances on The Dating Game. With striking eyes and a charming presence, Mark was a standout.
Imagine him answering questions with a smile, his charisma lighting up the stage. The audience and contestants were captivated by his charm.
Mark’s appearances on The Dating Game were a prelude to his Hollywood career. Those eyes were working overtime, and it was clear he was destined for greatness.