Was Richard Dawson, the charming host of Family Feud, truly the kissing bandit of daytime television? With estimates suggesting he locked lips with a staggering 20,000 women during his tenure on the show, the answer leans towards an emphatic yes. This, however, is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the life and legacy of this multifaceted entertainer.

Born Colin Lionel Emm on November 20, 1932, in Gosport, England, Richard Dawson's journey from a young boy in a seaside town to a beloved television personality is a testament to his resilience and charisma. Before gracing the small screen with his infectious smile and quick wit, Dawson's early life was shaped by diverse experiences. At the tender age of 14, he embarked on a three-year stint in the merchant marines, an experience that undoubtedly instilled a sense of discipline and broadened his horizons. His American father and English mother gave him dual citizenship, a background that shaped his future career path.

Category	Details
Full Name	Colin Lionel Emm (Richard Dawson)
Date of Birth	November 20, 1932
Place of Birth	Gosport, England
Date of Death	June 2, 2012
Cause of Death	Complications of Esophageal Cancer
Nicknames/Aliases	Richard Lee Dawson, Dick Dawson, Richard L. Dawson
Age at Death	79
Nationality	British-American
Spouse(s)	Diana Dors (m. 19591967), Gretchen Johnson (m. 19912012)
Children	Mark Dawson, Gary Dawson, Shannon Dawson
Early Career	Merchant Marine (age 14-17), Stand-up Comedian, Actor
Notable Roles	Corporal Peter Newkirk in Hogan's Heroes, Host of Family Feud, Panelist on Match Game
Years Active	1950s - 2012
Game Show Appearances	Match Game, Family Feud
Present Occupation	Dawson Graphic Services (Principal)
Final Film Role	Running Man
Website Reference	IMDB

Dawson's career trajectory took an unexpected turn, ultimately leading him to game show stardom. Before Family Feud, he honed his comedic timing and improvisational skills as a panelist on the 1970s version of Match Game. This experience proved invaluable, laying the groundwork for his future success. Match Game served as a kind of launchpad; the very foundation that would lead him to create and host Family Feud later.

The genesis of Family Feud can be traced back to the format of the final round on Match Game, which shared a similar concept. Dawson understood how to connect with the audience, and knew how to build a game show. The transition from panelist to host was a natural progression, and he quickly became the heart and soul of the show. His genuine interest in the contestants, his quick wit, and his signature on-screen persona made Family Feud an instant hit.

Dawson's tenure on Family Feud, which spanned from 1976 to 1985 and then again from 1994 to 1995, was marked by high ratings, memorable moments, and, of course, the kisses. While the kisses may have been controversial to some, they were, for many, a testament to Dawson's warmth, charm, and connection to the people playing the game. One kiss, however, stands out: the kiss that blossomed into a life-altering romance. He met Gretchen Johnson, a contestant, who ultimately became his second wife. The personal connection he fostered on camera was as important as the game itself.

Beyond the glitz and glamour of television, Dawson had other facets to his life. While his television career flourished, Dawson pursued other ventures, including Dawson Graphic Services. His personal life included two marriages. His first marriage was to British actress Diana Dors. Later, he married Gretchen Johnson, a connection that began when she was a contestant on his show. The couple remained married until his death.

Dawson's influence extends beyond the realm of entertainment. He was, in many ways, a pioneer of his time, seamlessly blending humor, human connection, and audience participation to create a unique television experience. He was also a skilled actor. His role in the Hogan's Heroes series had made him popular. His final film role came in the 1987 action film The Running Man.

The legacy of Richard Dawson is one of an entertainer who understood the power of connection, a comedian who could make you laugh in the moment, and a host who transformed the game show format. From the merchant marines to the small screen, Dawson's life was full of unexpected turns and remarkable achievements. Richard Dawson, a man who lived life to the fullest, passed away on Saturday, June 2, 2012, after a battle with esophageal cancer. The world lost a beloved entertainer, but the memories he created and the laughter he inspired will continue to resonate for generations to come.

While the "kissing bandit" label may have defined a part of his persona, Richard Dawson was far more complex. He was a man of diverse experiences, a dedicated entertainer, and a genuinely warm person who left an indelible mark on the world of television.

His story is a reminder that even in the fast-paced world of entertainment, genuine human connection can make all the difference. Richard Dawson's legacy is not just about the kisses, the games, or the fame. It's about the ability to connect with people, to bring joy to their lives, and to leave a lasting positive impact.

His legacy continues, he's even mentioned by other famous characters, for example, actress and producer Issa Rae said she views Pepe Le Pew, a cartoon skunk who forces kisses on an uncooperative cat, as the richard dawson of loon tunes.

Even today, the man who was born Colin Lionel Emm, will be remembered for decades to come. From his humble beginnings in Gosport, England, to his rise as a game show icon, Richard Dawson's life offers an inspiring glimpse into the impact of charisma, humor, and a genuine love for people.

He was the original host of the Family Feud game show from 1976 to 1985 and from 1994 to 1995, and a regular panelist on the 1970s version of Match Game on.

Its worth noting that there is a Dick Dawson who is an attorney at law located in Baytown, Texas. The law office of Dick Dawson is located at 501 Ward Rd.