After a three-year stint in the merchant marine , Dawson became a stand-up comedian and actor. Dawson parodied his own image in the dystopian film The Running Man Richard Dawson. Article Media. Info Print Cite. Submit Feedback. Thank you for your feedback.

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When he was 14, he joined the Merchant Marines and served for three years. During that time, he made money boxing. He had to lie about his age and remain tough so the older guys would not hassle him. In the late s, Richard met a British actress named Diana Dors. Richard and Diana's first child, a son named Mark Dawson , was born in , and a second son, Gary Dawson , was born in Richard and Diana separated in and eventually divorced in When Richard moved to the United States, he began acting on the well-known series, Hogan's Heroes , in
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Dawson began his career as comedian and actor in England, appearing on a variety of programs, including the Benny Hill Showcase. Dawson was one of the show regulars, appearing on more than 1, episodes. His outgoing personality and broad appeal led to a surprising agreement. Dawson immediately scheduled a meeting with Goodson and demanded an explanation. The host wowed in his audition, eventually beating Shatner out for the gig. Family Feud premiered on July 12,
The best TV game show hosts are the ones able to connect with the studio audience, viewers at home and, of course, contestants. He would especially do that on Family Feud. At least not back then. There might be some now that are more like Dawson, but he definitely stood out at the time. Everybody who worked for him said he was very different. That, unfortunately, would become a problem with his ego growing right along with his success and him treating many others as being beneath him.