Comedian, actor and writer Groucho Marx had a successful film and vaudeville career as part of the Marx Brothers, but his radio career didn’t take off until 1947, when producer John Guedel convinced him to host a new quiz program called "You Bet Your Life." The game itself was fairly straightforward: three couples were brought onstage, asked four questions and given $20 to wager as they chose. There was also a “secret word,” which could net contestants extra money, and a jackpot question for the most successful couple. Groucho Marx's quick-witted remarks were a key to the show's success. Rarely at a loss for words, Marx freely engaged in unrehearsed banter with the contestants and announcer George Fenneman.
Radio Hall of Fame: You Bet Your Life
November 2, 2020 marks the 100th anniversary of the first commercial radio broadcast. To celebrate this special anniversary, we’re shining a spotlight on 100 key moments in radio's history.
We hope you’ll join us in celebrating your favorite radio memories throughout 2020. Use the hashtag #Radio100 across social media to share these moments with the world. Here’s to 100 wonderful years of radio, and to at least 100 more!
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