Noshing With Mark Richards – March 3, 2022

Game Show Host and Aficionado

This week on Ira’s Everything Bagel Podcast, Ira sits down with Mark Richards, a well-known figure in the world of game shows. Mark Richards, who hosted “Starcade,” cable television’s first original game show, worked as a contestant coordinator for “Jeopardy”, and hosted a nightly 3-hour game show on a major Los Angeles radio station, shares his fascinating journey in the game show industry. In this “come-on-down” episode of Ira’s Everything Bagel, Mark talks about his early love for game shows, his encounters with industry legends, and his latest ventures in Las Vegas.

A Passion for Game Shows: Starting at Age 12

Mark Richards developed an intense passion for game shows at the young age of 12. His early fascination with game shows paved the way for his diverse career, including his memorable appearances on numerous shows like “To Tell The Truth” and “Wheel of Fortune.” This childhood passion was not just a passing phase; it was the foundation that led him to become a prominent figure in the game show world.

Competing with Alex Trebek and Joining “Jeopardy!”

One of the most interesting stories Mark Richards shares is his first encounter with the iconic Alex Trebek. They first met while competing in an audition for a game show. Surprisingly, Richards won that competition, which ultimately led to his role as a contestant coordinator on “Jeopardy!”. This experience allowed him to work behind the scenes, helping contestants and shaping some of the iconic moments that made “Jeopardy!” a household name.

Hosting “Starcade” – Cable TV’s First Original Game Show

“Starcade” was a groundbreaking moment in television history as it was the first original game show on cable TV. Mark Richards became synonymous with the show as its charismatic host. His involvement in “Starcade” helped set the standard for many game shows that followed, establishing his reputation as a trailblazer in the industry. Fans of the show can explore its legacy on the Starcade Official Website.

Meeting Game Show Legend Mark Goodson

In this episode, Richards also talks about his biggest thrill in his career: meeting the legendary Mark Goodson, a pioneer in the game show industry. This encounter was a pivotal moment that solidified Richards’ standing in the game show world, inspiring him to pursue various roles within the industry, from hosting to contestant coordination and beyond.

The Future of Game Shows

As a game show veteran, Mark Richards provides insights into his favorite game shows and quiz shows, discussing the unique elements that make them captivating for audiences. He also delves into the evolution of game shows, sharing his thoughts on how they have changed over the years. Despite the changing landscape, Richards believes that game shows have a bright future, especially with the integration of technology and audience interaction, which could redefine the genre in exciting new ways.

Moving to Las Vegas: Hosting, Karaoke, and Video Production

In 1990, Mark Richards relocated to Las Vegas, where he continued his work in entertainment. He hosted a nightly radio game show on KENO-AM and became a well-known figure in the local scene. His versatility was on full display as he took on the role of karaoke host at Harrah’s and produced three weekly half-hour television programs for channel 33/cable 6. He also warmed up audiences for the NBC daytime game show, “Caesars Challenge.”

Richards didn’t limit himself to television and radio; he was active in the main lounges of iconic casinos such as the Riviera, Sands, and the Las Vegas Hilton, hosting audience participation games during the house band’s hourly breaks. His diverse involvement in the Las Vegas entertainment scene showcased his adaptability and expertise in the game show and live entertainment sectors.

Game Show Pilots and Video Production

Mark Richards went on to produce and host two game show pilots, further cementing his legacy in the game show industry. His entrepreneurial spirit didn’t stop there; he started his own video production company specializing in videotaping weddings. This venture demonstrated his ability to diversify his skills and capitalize on opportunities in the entertainment industry.

Current Roles: Advertising and Gaming Innovation

For the past eight years, Richards has served as the advertising, marketing, and promotions director for the Crescent School of Gaming and Bartender, where he utilizes his marketing expertise to promote the school’s programs. Despite his busy schedule, he continues to videotape weddings on weekends, proving his enduring passion for entertainment and event production.

Recently, Mark Richards launched Out of the Box Gaming, focusin...