Richard Dawson: The Original Charmer
Richard Dawson set the standard as the original Family Feud host from 1976 to 1985 and made a brief return in 1994. Known for his humor and the controversial kisses he planted on female contestants, Dawson left an indelible mark on the show. He passed away on June 2, 2012, due to esophageal cancer.
Ray Combs: The Comedic Successor
After a hiatus, Ray Combs took over the hosting duties in 1988. With his comedic background, he quickly won over skeptics and revitalized the show's popularity. Combs hosted until 1994, and his untimely death on June 2, 1996, was a loss to the comedy and television community.
Louie Anderson: The Comedian's Touch
Louie Anderson stepped in as the host in 1999, bringing his comedic flair to the stage. Despite his best efforts, the show struggled with ratings during his tenure, which ended in 2002. Anderson later appeared as a contestant in 2017 and passed away on January 21, 2022.
Richard Karn: The Home Improvement Star
In 2002, actor Richard Karn, known for "Home Improvement," became the host of Family Feud. His down-to-earth personality and rapport with contestants gave the show a fresh feel. He hosted until 2006 and continued to act in various TV series and movies.
John O'Hurley: The Suave Host
John O'Hurley, an actor and TV personality, took the reins in 2006. While it took time for him to settle into the role, he eventually became a fan favorite. O'Hurley's tenure as the host lasted until 2010, when he stepped down, citing the show's shift from family-friendly content.
Steve Harvey: The Current Face of Family Feud
Steve Harvey became the host of Family Feud in 2010 and has since become synonymous with the show. His quick wit and comedic timing have breathed new life into the program, making it more popular than ever. Harvey's multifaceted career includes acting, producing, and hosting his own talk show.