The Dating Game

Game Show by Chuck Barris Productions which debuted on ABC in 1965 with host Jim Lange. It was the first Game Show to enter Reality TV territory, in that the winning couple actually went on a date after the show. It was so popular in its original run that it inspired a flavor of ice cream.

A young woman asked provocative questions of three bachelors who sat on stools behind a large wall. After questioning, the "bachelorette" chose one of the bachelors for her date, based only on how they answered her questions. On occasion, the role would be reversed (one bachelor, three bachelorettes).

Syndicated revivals were moderated by Elaine Joyce, Jeff MacGregor, Brad Sherwood, and Chuck Woolery.

The UK version, Blind Date, had a hugely popular run from 1985-2003 and was hosted by Cilla Black.

The following Game Show tropes appear in The Dating Game:

• All or Nothing: Somewhat, at least for the three potential suitors -- either you get the girl/boy, or you don't.
• Carried by the Host: Averted, hard. They could've done the show without a host and there would have been virtually no ill effect.
• Personnel:
  • The Announcer: Johnny Jacobs is probably the best-known.
  • Game Show Host: Jim Lange. Elaine Joyce hosted from 1986-87, followed by Jeff MacGregor from 1987-89. Brad Sherwood hosted the first season of the 1990s revival, followed by Chuck Woolery.
  • Studio Audience

Tropes used in The Dating Game include:

• Getting Crap Past the Radar: The game became very raunchy as its popularity grew, with virtually all the questions (and answers) being veiled innuendos.
• Real Song Theme Tune: Herb Alpert's "Spanish Flea", "Lollipops and Roses" and "Whipped Cream" were all used as music cues.
• Spiritual Successor: Love Connection was basically this, but much more host-driven. Singled Out was similar, but had the contestant picking from 50 potential dates.