Image via Netflix
Ah, the infamous “before they were stars” deep dive. Thanks to the beauty of the internet, we have been able to unearth some diamonds in the rough of some of our favorite celebrities. The Dating Game, the iconic vintage game show, featured contestants picking a date from a trio of hidden eligible bachelors by asking a series of random, often comedic questions. Back in 1973, the sequel edition of the series, The New Dating Game, hosted by Jim Lange, flipped the script as it was a bachelor seeking a date with a bachelorette. But this was not any ordinary bachelor. It was Mr. Olympia — also known as Arnold Schwarzenegger. Though most fans know the actor for his legendary action films and bodybuilding history, Schwarzenegger showcased his comedy chops in this now iconic appearance. If you thought he was hilarious on FUBAR, his stint on The New Dating Game is just as funny.
Arnold Schwarzenegger Learns About ‘Hanky Panky’
It was the “Night of Titles” as both games featured current reigning champions. Billed as the current Mr. Olympia, former Mr. Universe, and Mr. World, Schwarzenegger arrived with his signature Austrian accent. He appeared in the same episode as Amanda Jones, Miss USA 1973, who later went on to represent the United States in the Miss Universe pageant, where she placed as first runner-up. His eligible bachelorettes were all “titleholders” themselves. And by that, it was Elena Casey, Miss Orange Juice; Kay Show, a homecoming princess; and Melody Williams, Miss Colorado University finalist turned Playboy bunny. At the time of his appearance, Schwarzenegger was studying business at UCLA, but Lange just loved to build up his bodybuilder past. Like the actor he is, the future Governor of California played into the bit. Schwarzenegger was a tad soft-spoken, referring to each contestant as “girl.” And yet, he tried very much to play into the game, responding with, “That sounds sexy,” when Casey suggested they should go to Venus. But when the actor, reading off the card, asked his questions in complete deadpan, that’s when the audience cracked up. “What does it mean ‘hanky panky’?” he asked Williams. When she told him it was like “playing around,” all he could say was, “Playing around with what?” Don’t play sly with us! He may not be known as an improviser, but he certainly accepted the “yes, and…” rule.
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They stole his mind. Now he wants it back.
Now, it may be inappropriate to share one’s measurements today, but Schwarzenegger certainly was not shy about revealing his. He hoped that his chest size matched one of the potential lucky ladies, though none would openly admit it. Though the game was short, he ultimately selected “lady number 2,” Kay Show, as he got “drunk” on her sexy voice. When she passed the sugar wall, they briefly locked lips as he held her tight. They won a date to Andres in “famous” Beverly Hills, California, and then jet-set off to Oahu, complete with their very own water skis. Not a bad first date! We can only hope that they took a “choppa” to Hawaii.
Arnold Schwarzenegger Has Always Been Funny
Albeit brief, his time on the game show helped launch him into the Hollywood star he is today. Although Schwarzenegger may be best known for his appearances in action and thriller films, including The Terminator, Predator, and Conan the Barbarian, his comedic skills are often overlooked. Sometimes even being seen as kitschy. But the former Governor of California is quite hilarious. During a recent appearance on The View, Schwarzenegger shared what it’s like having fans scream out and attempt to impersonate his infamous catchphrases and iconic accent. But he did admit that while he may be good at acting, he is not great at writing. There was a time when he tried to get James Cameron to adjust “I’ll be back” to “I will be back.” Thankfully, it didn’t work, and the rest is history! Schwarzenegger has a vast and expansive resume, complete with comedies that will tickle the funny bone. From classics like Kindergarten Cop and Jingle All the Way, his ability to mix the action hero persona with wit and comic timing makes him illustrious. Now, with the action comedy Netflix series FUBAR, Schwarzenegger continues to shine. Though it’s his first scripted television leading role, it seems like an old hat. As seen in Season 2, Schwarzenegger plays up the romantic lead opposite Carrie-Anne Moss. Perhaps his appearance on The New Dating Game was just a precursor to FUBAR because, from the looks of it, The Governator is a ladies’ man! The Dating Game is currently unavailable to stream.
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