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What is the name of the TV quiz show where celebrities occupied the spaces on a Tic-Tac-Toe board?

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HOLLYWOOD SQUARES - entertainment illustration
HOLLYWOOD SQUARES — entertainment

The iconic game show that placed nine famous personalities inside a giant, three-tiered Tic-Tac-Toe board was titled Hollywood Squares. The game involved two contestants, one playing "X" and the other "O," who would choose a celebrity square. The host would ask the star a trivia question, and after hearing the celebrity's often-comical answer, the contestant had to either "agree" or "disagree" with the response to win the square. The objective, just like in the classic pen-and-paper game, was to get three squares in a row.

The true appeal of the show wasn't just the trivia, but the comedy that came from the celebrity interactions. The stars were often pre-briefed on their questions, allowing them to prepare witty bluffs and "zingers" that left audiences and contestants laughing. This format was perfected during the show's classic run, hosted by Peter Marshall. The most legendary panelist was comedian Paul Lynde, whose permanent spot in the center square was defined by his snarky, hilarious, and often-outrageous ad-libs.

The show's simple but effective format proved incredibly durable, leading to numerous revivals and syndicated versions over the decades with different hosts, such as Tom Bergeron, and new center-square personalities like Whoopi Goldberg. Its enduring legacy is a testament to its perfect blend of straightforward gameplay, general knowledge, and the unpredictable humor of its celebrity guests.