To Tell the Truth Television Show

The 1969-78 syndicated version of To Tell the Truth marked a significant departure from its predecessors. Original host Bud Collyer declined to participate, considering himself retired. Coincidentally, Collyer passed away on the premiere day of the new version. Goodson-Todman Productions then selected Garry Moore, the former host of I’ve Got a Secret, who had also retired in 1964. Moore accepted the role and hosted To Tell the Truth until throat cancer forced him to step down in 1976. Despite recovering, Moore chose to remain retired.

Bill Cullen, a frequent guest host during Moore’s tenure, was surprisingly passed over for the permanent hosting position. Joe Garagiola was ultimately chosen as host, while Cullen remained on the panel. Author Gil Fates, in his book What’s My Line?, noted that Cullen’s exceptional gameplay was sorely missed on the panel, highlighting his significant contributions to the show.

The 1969 version of To Tell the Truth uniquely addressed Cullen’s physical limitations. Unlike his previous shows, which often minimized his movements on camera, this version showcased Cullen walking to center stage to greet the host and panel members. While the camera would zoom in to reduce the visibility of his limp, it was still apparent, demonstrating a departure from typical television practices of the time. At the episode’s conclusion, Cullen would again walk to center stage for the closing credits.

This To Tell the Truth iteration is also notable for its distinctive “mod” set design, influenced by Peter Max’s artwork, and its rock-themed theme song, “It’s a lie, lie…you’re telling a lie…”, composed by Goodson-Todman director Paul Alter. This visually and aurally striking approach further differentiated it from earlier versions of the show.

Each season of To Tell the Truth consisted of 195 episodes, providing enough content for 39 weeks of broadcasting. According to a 1975 article, five episodes were taped daily on Tuesdays, spanning from mid-September to mid-June. This rigorous production schedule ensured a consistent flow of new content for viewers.

Bill Cullen recounted an incident where he had hiccups while taping five episodes in a single day. The resulting viewer response highlighted the impact of the show. Over 5,000 letters poured in with sympathy and remedies, showcasing the genuine connection audiences felt with Cullen and the To Tell the Truth program.

The show often featured contestants with compelling stories, careers, or pursuits. Due to its format, To Tell the Truth showcased individuals who had achieved a level of fame without widespread facial recognition. Notable contestants included The Exorcist author William Peter Blatty, MAD Magazine founder William M. Gaines, ice cream magnate Tom Carvell, and Bugs Bunny creator Bob Clampett.

Two years after this version concluded, a new iteration hosted by Robin Ward featured appearances by Cullen, Cass, and Carlisle, although never simultaneously. This further demonstrates the enduring legacy of the original cast and the lasting appeal of the To Tell the Truth format.

To Tell the Truth remains the most enduring of the Goodson-Todman panel shows, with six distinct versions and over twenty hosts throughout its history. Kitty Carlisle’s appearance on the 2000 version marked her sixth decade on the show’s panel, underscoring the program’s remarkable longevity.

The 1969-78 series is believed to be fully preserved and has aired on Game Show Network and Buzzr. Select episodes, including some never re-broadcast, are available for viewing at the Paley Center for Media. This availability ensures that fans can continue to enjoy this classic game show. Marshall Aker’s website, “To Tell The Truth on the Web,” provides further information and episode guides for several seasons.