Ralph Edwards, a renowned radio and television personality, was born on June 13, 1913, near Merino, Colorado. At the tender age of 12, he relocated with his family to Oakland, California, where he would later work his way through college at local radio stations. Edwards graduated from the University of California at Berkeley in 1935 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in drama.
He moved to New York in 1936 and became one of radio's busiest announcers, hosting an astonishing 45 network shows per week. In response to his hectic pace, Edwards created, produced, and hosted the groundbreaking audience participation show "Truth or Consequences" in 1940. The show's immense popularity led to his appearance in the 1942 film Seven Days' Leave, alongside Lucille Ball and Victor Mature.
Edwards relocated his production company and show to Hollywood in 1945, where he produced three more films for RKO, all featuring Frances Langford. Although his film career slowed down, he continued to thrive in television, bringing his long-running show "This Is Your Life" to the airwaves in 1952. The program initially aired on radio for two years before transitioning to NBC-TV, where it remained until 1961, earning two Emmy Awards.
Edwards' television career spanned several decades, with notable appearances in The New Truth and Consequences (1950) and I'll Cry Tomorrow (1955). He also launched the career of Bob Barker as host of the daytime version of "Truth or Consequences" in 1956. Edwards was an avid philanthropist and producer, earning him the reputation as one of TV's most prolific producers.
Sadly, Ralph Edwards passed away on November 16, 2005, in West Hollywood, California, due to congestive heart failure. He left behind a legacy that continues to entertain and inspire audiences to this day.
