Television and Radio Announcer. Born in Windom, Minnesota, he obtained his first job at a radio station in 1928. In 1944 his career had advanced to the networks, and he became the announcer for several quiz shows. By the late 1940s, Olson moved to television. In 1958 he was chosen as the announcer for the final year of the original "Name That Tune." He emceed many well-known game shows, including "To Tell the Truth" and "What's My Line." He also worked as the announcer for "The Jackie Gleason Show." In 1972 Olson was chosen as the announcer for the revival of the game show "The Price Is Right," a position he held from the first episode until his death. In this role he became a sidekick to the show's host, Bob Barker, and Olson was often given camera exposure as he bantered with Barker. Olson's call to the contestants "Come on down" became a well-known catch phrase. In 1973, Olson began a nine-year stint with the revival of the "Match Game" show, creating a second catch phrase "Get ready to match the stars." On one occasion Olson had to fill in as a panelist for Gary Burghoff, who failed to arrive in time for the show's taping. In his off time, Olson enjoyed living at his beloved farm near Lewisburg, West Virginia. Upon his death he was taken back to this area for burial. In 2009 Olson became the subject of a biography titled "Johnny Olson: A Voice in Time" by Randy West.
Television and Radio Announcer. Born in Windom, Minnesota, he obtained his first job at a radio station in 1928. In 1944 his career had advanced to the networks, and he became the announcer for several quiz shows. By the late 1940s, Olson moved to television. In 1958 he was chosen as the announcer for the final year of the original "Name That Tune." He emceed many well-known game shows, including "To Tell the Truth" and "What's My Line." He also worked as the announcer for "The Jackie Gleason Show." In 1972 Olson was chosen as the announcer for the revival of the game show "The Price Is Right," a position he held from the first episode until his death. In this role he became a sidekick to the show's host, Bob Barker, and Olson was often given camera exposure as he bantered with Barker. Olson's call to the contestants "Come on down" became a well-known catch phrase. In 1973, Olson began a nine-year stint with the revival of the "Match Game" show, creating a second catch phrase "Get ready to match the stars." On one occasion Olson had to fill in as a panelist for Gary Burghoff, who failed to arrive in time for the show's taping. In his off time, Olson enjoyed living at his beloved farm near Lewisburg, West Virginia. Upon his death he was taken back to this area for burial. In 2009 Olson became the subject of a biography titled "Johnny Olson: A Voice in Time" by Randy West.
Bio by: Ernest
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