Actor · Announcer

John Reed King

1914–1979 · Wilmington, Delaware

In the golden age of radio and early television, few personalities were as versatile and engaging as John Reed King. A charismatic host who bridged the gap between radio and television broadcasting, King became a prominent figure in American entertainment during the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s. His career exemplified the dynamic and rapidly evolving world of mid-20th century media, making him a quintessential entertainer of his era.

Early Life and Radio Beginnings

Born on October 25, 1914, in Wilmington, Delaware, John Reed King entered the broadcasting world during a transformative period in media history. The 1930s were a pivotal time for radio, and King quickly established himself as a talented announcer and host. His early career was marked by an exceptional ability to connect with audiences, a skill that would define his professional trajectory. King's radio career took off in New York City, where he hosted one of the top-rated radio shows of the 1930s, Missus Goes A-Shopping. This program showcased his natural rapport with listeners and his emerging talent for audience engagement. During this period, he also worked as an announcer for several notable radio programs, demonstrating his versatility and growing reputation in the broadcasting industry.

Pioneering Television Game Shows

As television began to emerge as a new medium, John Reed King was among the first broadcasters to successfully transition from radio. On August 1, 1944, he hosted the television version of Missus Goes A-Shopping, and on January 29, 1946, he hosted It's a Gift, making these among the earliest television game shows ever aired. The late 1940s and early 1950s saw King become a prominent television game show host. His The John Reed King Show was a popular audience-participation quiz show that began on one network and moved to another in February 1950. During this period, he hosted multiple game shows, including There's One In Every Family and Give and Take, solidifying his reputation as a leading television personality.

Versatility Across Media Platforms

King's career was characterized by remarkable adaptability. Beyond game shows, he worked in various broadcasting roles. In the 1960s, he was a morning news anchor for a radio station and hosted a daily television talk show. By 1970, he had become a news anchor at a major television station, further demonstrating his wide-ranging talents. His versatility extended to other media as well. In 1949, he even published John Reed King's Quiz and Game Book, showcasing his expertise in the game show format. King also made occasional acting appearances, including a guest role in a television episode in 1962.

Personal Life and Legacy

Despite his professional success, King maintained a relatively private personal life. He was married to Jean Elizabeth Abbot, and they had two daughters and a son. Throughout his career, King was known for his warm personality and ability to make audiences feel connected and entertained. John Reed King passed away on July 8, 1979, in Woodstown, New Jersey, at the age of 64. He left behind a significant legacy as a pioneering broadcaster who helped shape the early landscape of radio and television entertainment.

Works and Appearances

Radio Shows (Host/Announcer)

Missus Goes A-Shopping (1934-1944)
Give and Take (1945-1953, CBS)
Chance of a Lifetime (1949-1952)

Television Shows (Host)

It's a Gift (1946, CBS)
The John Reed King Show (1949)
There's One In Every Family (1952-1953, CBS)
Give and Take (1952-1953, CBS)

Books

John Reed King's Quiz and Game Book (1949)

Other Media

Television guest appearance in , episode "Old Comrade" (1962)

John Reed King represents a fascinating chapter in American broadcasting history, embodying the innovation and excitement of mid-20th century media entertainment.