Queen for a Day facts for kids
Queen for a Day was a popular radio and television game show. It was one of the first TV shows to give away really big prizes! The show started on radio on April 30, 1945, and ran until 1957. Later, it moved to NBC television, running from 1956 to 1964. Some people even think it was an early type of "reality show" because it showed real people and their lives. It was so popular that NBC made the TV show longer, from 30 minutes to 45 minutes.
How the Show Worked
The idea behind Queen for a Day was quite simple. Four women would come on the show as contestants. Each woman would share a personal story about a challenge she was facing. For example, a contestant might talk about needing help for a family member, or needing an important item for her home.
The audience would then choose the winner. They would clap for their favorite contestant. The show used an "applause meter" to measure how loud the clapping was. The woman who received the most applause was crowned "Queen for a Day."
The Prizes and the Crown
The winner was treated like royalty!
- She was crowned with a special tiara.
- She was escorted to a throne by attendants.
- She received the specific item or help she had asked for.
- She also won many other exciting prizes, like fancy home appliances, stylish clothes, and even amazing vacation trips!
The show was hosted by Jack Bailey. He was the person who interviewed the contestants and helped guide the show.
