Allen Ludden Biography

Fast Facts

• For exemplifying dedication, purpose and perseverance, he won the 1961 Horatio Alger Award
• Graduated from the University of Texas as a member of Phi Beta Kappa in the 1940s with a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in English
• Served in the Army as officer in charge of entertainment in the Pacific theater during World War II
• A popular game show host, he rose to fame as the host of "Password," a game show based on word association
• For many years, horn-rimmed glasses and a crewcut composed his trademark look
• A walkway at the Los Angeles Zoo and a man-made lake in his hometown were named after him
• Wrote three books of advice to young people, "Plain Talk for Men Under 21," "Plain Talk for Women Under 21" and "Plain Talk About College," as well as a novel called "Roger Thomas, Actor․"