Family Feud, a game show staple since its inception in 1976, owes much of its enduring appeal to the charismatic personalities who have taken on the role of Family Feud Host. Created by the prolific Mark Goodson, also known for iconic shows like The Price Is Right and Match Game, Family Feud has seen a resurgence in popularity, particularly with Steve Harvey at the helm. Today, the show’s blend of family fun and humorous banter keeps audiences hooked, and for those wanting a nostalgic trip, classic episodes are readily available on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime, Buzzrplay, and Twitch.
Vintage Family Feud Ticket
While the core format of Family Feud has remained largely unchanged, the faces guiding the family face-offs have evolved over the decades. Let’s take a look at the esteemed gentlemen who have served as family feud host, captivating studio audiences and viewers alike for over 40 years.
Richard Dawson (1976–85; 1994–95): The Kissing Host
Richard Dawson Family Feud Host
Richard Dawson holds the distinction of being the original family feud host. His tenure, spanning from 1976 to 1985 and a return season in 1994-95, was marked by his signature charm and, notably, his penchant for kissing female contestants. Interestingly, Family Feud played a significant role in Dawson’s personal life; he met his second wife, Gretchen Johnson, when she appeared as a contestant in 1981. Her family won $12,659, and nine years later, they married. Dawson’s warm and engaging style set the tone for the show and solidified its early success.
Ray Combs (1988–94): The Energetic Comedian
Ray Combs Family Feud Host
Following a three-year hiatus after Dawson’s initial run, Ray Combs stepped into the role of family feud host in 1988. Combs, a comedian known for his energetic stage presence, brought a different flavor to the show. Prior to Family Feud, he gained recognition for a memorable stand-up performance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in 1986, which earned him a standing ovation. Combs’ enthusiasm and comedic timing kept the show lively during his six-year run.
Louie Anderson (1999–2002): The Gentle Giant
Louie Anderson Family Feud Host
Louie Anderson, a beloved comedian known for his gentle humor and later for his role in the FX series Baskets, took over as family feud host in 1999. Anderson’s hosting style was characterized by his warmth and affability. During his three-year stint, a notable highlight was a charity episode following the 9/11 attacks, where the New York Fire Department and New York Police Department competed, raising $75,000 for recovery efforts. Anderson’s compassionate approach resonated with audiences during a sensitive time.
Richard Karn (2002–2006): From Tool Time to Feud Time
Richard Karn Family Feud Host
Richard Karn, widely recognized as Al Borland from the hit sitcom Home Improvement, became the family feud host in 2002. Karn brought his affable and slightly goofy persona to the show, endearing himself to viewers. Adding a quirky pop culture moment to his tenure, Karn also appeared in The Strokes’ “Someday” music video in 2002, which humorously featured the band competing on a fictional episode of Family Feud. His familiar face and approachable demeanor made for a smooth transition in hosts.
John O’Hurley (2006–2010): The Sophisticated Showman
John O'Hurley Family Feud Host
John O’Hurley, known for his role as J. Peterman on Seinfeld, brought a touch of sophistication to the family feud host position starting in 2006. O’Hurley, with his background in soap operas and his passion for golf, presented a suave and polished hosting style. His quick wit and theatrical flair added a unique dimension to the show, appealing to fans of his previous work and new viewers alike.
Al Roker (2008): Celebrity Family Feud Pioneer
Al Roker Celebrity Family Feud Host
Before the celebrity editions became a regular fixture, Al Roker, the beloved weatherman from the Today Show, hosted the very first Celebrity Family Feud in 2008. While a one-off event at the time, Roker’s foray into family feud host duties was a precursor to the successful celebrity spin-offs we see today. Roker himself is no stranger to game shows, having appeared on Jeopardy!, Wheel of Fortune, and Hollywood Squares, and hosting MSNBC’s Remember This? His warm and familiar presence made the celebrity edition an instant hit.
Steve Harvey (2010–Present): The Viral King
Steve Harvey Family Feud Host
Steve Harvey has become synonymous with Family Feud since taking over as family feud host in 2010. Nearing Richard Dawson’s record for longest tenure, Harvey’s hosting style is characterized by his sharp wit, expressive reactions, and fashionable attire. His hilarious reactions to contestants’ sometimes outlandish answers have become viral sensations, propelling Family Feud to new heights of popularity. Many consider Steve Harvey to be the definitive family feud host for a modern audience.
Steve Harvey (2015–Present): Celebrity Family Feud Reign Continues
Building on the success of the initial celebrity edition, Steve Harvey also helms the relaunched Celebrity Family Feud, starting in 2015. His comedic approach and rapport with celebrities have made this version equally entertaining and successful. Harvey’s ability to play off the personalities of celebrity contestants has resulted in countless laugh-out-loud moments, further solidifying his status as a premier family feud host and a key figure in the show’s continued popularity.
From Richard Dawson’s charming beginnings to Steve Harvey’s contemporary comedic reign, the family feud host has been pivotal in the show’s enduring success. Each host has brought their unique talents and personality to the stage, contributing to the rich history of Family Feud and ensuring its place in television history.
