Discussion » Questions » Games » Game Shows. Why can’t the Game Show Network buy the rights to the original version of “Family Feud”? ~
Randy D

Game Shows. Why can’t the Game Show Network buy the rights to the original version of “Family Feud”? ~

Richard Dawson hosted the show on two separate stints, from 1976 to 1985, and then again from 1994 to 1995.

The Game Show Network, which broadcasts reruns of old game shows, only airs the Steve Harvey years of “Family Feud”, which are considered by some people to be some of the worst programming on television for the intended demographic to whom it is aimed (due to its often raunchy, filthy, and/or adult-themed content).

Of course, the simplest answer is that filth gets ratings, but beyond that, there is still good, wholesome and nostalgic programming that attracts viewers. 

Posted - February 7, 2021
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Responses


  • 10637
    Probably for the same reason they don't show old episodes of Hollywood Squares or Lets make a Deal.... money.

    Networks make a bulk of their money from advertising.  If no one watches a show, they can't see the ads, and therefore probably won't buy the product (based on the ad).  Ads cost a LOT of money to make, plus companies have to purchase airtime to run the ads.

    Ads usually target a certain age group.  Its very doubtful younger viewers won't be rushing out to buy the latest version of Depends.  Likewise, "older" folks probably won't be rushing out to purchase or ask their doctor about contraceptives.

    While the "older" folks want to see old shows, networks must decide which shows will generate the most income.  MeTV, for example, shows a lot of the shows from the 60's to the 80's.  Their ads are aimed specifically for the folks who originally watched those shows (ones who are now in their 50s to 80s), so they're mostly for. Depends, age related medications, senior assistance, lawyers, and such.  While a few younger people may watch these shows, most won't.  BUt just to be sure they throw in a few ads for middle generations (phone companies) now and then.  

    Yes, you're right, the young generations seem to like raunch (especially sexulal innuendos).  While the old shows certainly had their share of these (eg. Newlywed Game, Hollywood Squares), the people on them are ..well... old.  (Most yoger people wouldn't even  recognize anyone on the old Hollywood Squares).  Each generation likes to see people they can relate to.  Yes, Dawson's Feuds were funny, especially to the generation that saw them.  To the newer ones... not so much.  Remember, they're trying to make money, so they are going to target the biggest audience they can.  Shows from 30 to 50 years ago might have a following, but then again a lot of them are now dead ... and statistics indicate that 100% of dead people don't watch TV. 


    Might I suggest looking for some of those old FF episodes on Youtube?
      February 8, 2021 10:57 AM MST
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  • 17595
    I agree that the Steve Harvey Family Feud is just horrid. Seriously, it seems it was created to create stupid. 
      February 8, 2021 9:15 PM MST
    1