First female game show host?

[Twentington]

So who was the first female to host a game show? I know Betty White filled in for her husband on Password at least once, but I can't think of any "regular" de-facto hostesses before Sarah Purcell on Tbe Better Sex.

I have a feeling I'm missing some obvious one, though.

[JamesVipond]

I always thought Arlene Francis was the first woman to be a full-time game show host.

[Jimmy Owen]

Someone from the early days.  Either Arlene Francis or Vera Vague.

[DrBear]

Arlene Francis, 'Blind Date." Look it up in the EOTVGS.

[The Ol' Guy]

Radio seemed to be more open to female hosts than tv. Arlene Francis might have that title, as far as national goes. Maxene Fabe's book lists 1938's What's My Name? as being hosted by Wilbur Hulick and Arlene Francis. Not clear if they were co-hosts, or Arlene later superseded Hulick. Blind Date with Arlene started in 1943, as did Irene Beasley's music quiz Grand Slam. Arlene hosted the tv version which is listed as starting in 1949, so I'd lean her way. Kathy Godfrey (Arthur's sister) co-hosted a version of On Your Way with John Reed King in the early 50s.

[tvrandywest]

Arlene Francis, 'Blind Date." Look it up in the EOTVGS.

Correct, and confirmed by higher sources.  I extensively researched this issue when doing warm-up for Anne Robinson on Weakest Link. There's some footage on the net of Arlene hosting her signature NBC hit "Home." She was incredibly good. Even Ann Curry would admit it   ;-)


Randy
tvrandywest.com

[Twentington]

Arlene Francis, 'Blind Date." Look it up in the EOTVGS.

Note to self: buy copy of EOTVGS.