The first host of the popular American game show Password was Allen Ludden.
Ludden was a familiar face on television, having previously gained recognition as the host of the G.E. College Bowl. His engaging demeanor and quick wit made him a natural fit for Password, where two teams, each comprising a celebrity and a contestant, would try to guess a secret word using one-word clues.
A Legacy in Game Show Hosting
Allen Ludden's tenure as the original host established the foundation for Password's enduring appeal. The format proved so successful that the show saw multiple revivals, each building upon the original's legacy. While Ludden hosted the initial run, later versions introduced new hosts and updated twists on the classic game.
The evolution of Password includes several notable iterations:
- Password Plus (1979 – 1982): This revival aired on NBC, bringing back the word association game with a new competitive edge.
- Super Password (1984 – 1989): Also airing on NBC, this version continued the show's popularity with a slightly modified format.
- Million Dollar Password (2008 – 2009): A primetime version that aired on CBS, offering larger stakes and a refreshed look for a new generation of viewers.
Allen Ludden's foundational role as the inaugural host of Password is a significant part of game show history, influencing the many versions that followed.
