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Gene Rayburn Biography

Birth Name:Eugene Rubessa

Birth Place:Christopher, Illinois, United States

Profession Actor

Fast Facts

  • Inducted into the Broadcasting and Cable Hall of Fame
  • Received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences in 1999
  • During the beginnings of Rayburn's entertainment career, he appeared on popular radio shows including "Anything Goes" with Jack Lescoulie and "Rayburn & Finch․"
  • Rayburn served in the U․S․ Army Air Force during World War II
  • Following a publicity stunt involving needlepoint on the program "Rayburn and Finch," it became a regular hobby for Rayburn
  • Made an uncredited cameo appearance in the 1959 film "It Happened to Jane․"
  • Had extensive knowledge of meteorology from his time in the Air Force

Awards

  • 1967Primetime Emmy-Program and Individual Achievements in Daytime Programming - Individuals: nominated
  • 1975Daytime Emmy-Outstanding Host in a Game Show or Audience Participation Show: nominated
  • 1977Daytime Emmy-Outstanding Host or Hostess in a Game or Audience Participation Show: nominated
  • 1978Daytime Emmy-Outstanding Host or Hostess in a Game or Audience Participation Show: nominated