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Family Feud's Richard Dawson Dead

Game show host died of esophageal cancer, son says

By Polly Davis Doig,  Newser Staff

Posted Jun 3, 2012 9:44 AM CDT

(Newser) – Not a good morning for the small screen: Longtime Family Feud host Richard Dawson died late yesterday of complications from esophageal cancer, reports TMZ. He was 79. Known as "the Kissing Bandit" during his first run as host, from 1976 to 1985, Dawson later returned to host the show from 1994 to 1995. Dawson appeared on other game shows, but his biggest role was on Hogan's Heroes. "He was an amazing talent, a loving husband, a great dad, and a doting grandfather," posted son Gary Dawson on Facebook early today. "He will be missed but always remembered..."

In this Nov. 5, 1982 file photo, Family Feud host Richard Dawson gives President Reagan, played by Johnny Carson, a chance at the big money as Queen Elizabeth (Rose Carr) readies herself.
In this Nov. 5, 1982 file photo, "Family Feud" host Richard Dawson gives President Reagan, played by Johnny Carson, a chance at the big money as Queen Elizabeth (Rose Carr) readies herself.   (AP Photo/NBC-TV, File)
In this May 8, 1978 file photo, Richard Dawson hosts Family Feud when the casts of Eight is Enough, The Love Boat, Soap, and Three's Company compete.
In this May 8, 1978 file photo, Richard Dawson hosts "Family Feud" when the casts of "Eight is Enough," "The Love Boat," "Soap," and "Three's Company" compete.   (AP Photo, File)
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An old episode of family feud in which lady says a funny answer and Richard Dawson wont stop laughing about it..   (LatinaChick145)

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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 13 comments
penders900
Oct 14, 2012 11:16 AM CDT
Who
MattHelm
Jul 3, 2012 12:24 PM CDT
First Andy now Richard Dawson.  Both shows provided alot of much needed humour which the world soo needed then & now.
coolsmoothla
Jun 3, 2012 8:53 PM CDT
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bNoV_kSe7Dk
 

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