6 ’70s Game Shows with Cringeworthy Hosts

The 1970s were full of creative and bizarre game shows, but not all of them were hits. Some stood out for reasons that had less to do with the gameplay and more with the awkward hosts. Their over-the-top antics or lack of charisma often left audiences baffled.

1. The Dating Game – Jim Lange

Jim Lange brought energy to the stage, but his overly rehearsed humor often felt flat. His banter with contestants sometimes bordered on uncomfortable, especially during awkward pauses. While the show had a great concept, Lange’s overly scripted delivery made it hard to take the interactions seriously.

Off-camera, Lange was a likable personality, but his performance felt like it came straight out of a training manual for TV hosts. The forced jokes and exaggerated reactions overshadowed the playful premise, leaving viewers cringing during many episodes.

2. Match Game – Gene Rayburn

Gene Rayburn’s long microphone and quirky style were memorable, but his hosting was divisive. He sometimes made inappropriate jokes, creating tense moments for contestants and panelists. While many loved his quirky charm, others found his offbeat humor hard to watch.

Rayburn’s on-screen personality often crossed the line between amusing and uncomfortable. Moments of forced laughter and awkward silences after his remarks made some episodes more about him than the game itself.

3. The Newlywed Game – Bob Eubanks

Bob Eubanks had a knack for stirring up drama between contestants, but his approach sometimes felt mean-spirited. He would poke fun at couples, often turning lighthearted moments into uncomfortable jabs. This style of hosting wasn’t everyone’s favorite.

Eubanks thrived on awkward moments, but at times it seemed he enjoyed making contestants squirm more than running the game. His focus on personal jokes and sarcastic commentary left many viewers wondering if the cringe was intentional.

4. The Gong Show – Chuck Barris

Chuck Barris embraced chaos, but his eccentric behavior often distracted from the performances. His unpredictable style included breaking into song or bizarre monologues, leaving contestants and viewers alike puzzled. His antics made the show feel more like his personal stage than a talent competition.

While Barris’ unconventional approach worked for some, others found his hosting overwhelming. The lack of structure and his offbeat energy often overshadowed the talents showcased, turning what could have been a fun contest into a confusing mess.

5. Let’s Make a Deal – Monty Hall

Monty Hall’s enthusiasm for the show was undeniable, but his rapid-fire delivery often left contestants struggling to keep up. His tendency to speed through explanations made the rules hard to follow, leading to chaotic gameplay at times.

Hall’s hosting style leaned heavily on improvisation, which sometimes worked but other times felt disorganized. Contestants often appeared bewildered as he quickly shifted from one deal to the next, creating more tension than excitement.

6. Tattletales – Bert Convy

Bert Convy brought charm to the show but sometimes seemed more interested in the celebrity couples than the gameplay. His flirty demeanor with guests occasionally crossed into awkward territory, making viewers feel like they were witnessing more than they bargained for.

Convy’s relaxed style sometimes worked against him, as it gave the show a disjointed feel. Moments that should have been playful instead felt forced, with his interactions creating more discomfort than entertainment.