Richard Dawson is a TV icon whose laughter echoed through decades. From his early days as Corporal Peter Newkirk in “Hogan’s Heroes” to the beloved host of “Family Feud,” Dawson enchanted audiences with his warmth and quick wit.
Dawson’s personal life became a source of curiosity, marked by two marriages that captivated fans. His genuine connection with the audience is built on shared laughs and moments.
In this article, we will get to know about Richard Dawson’s personal life and the captivating stories that keep fans curious.
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Table of Contents
- Quick Bio
- Early Life & Background
- Richard Dawson Married Twice In His Life
- Marriage To Diana Dors
- Who Is Diana Dors?
- Finding New Love: Gretchen Johnson
- Who Is Gretchen Johnson?
- Richard Dawson’s Children
- Richard Dawson’s Physical Attributes
- Richard Dawson’s Career Highlights
- Richard Dawson’s Health Struggles & Passing
- Richard Dawson’s Net Worth
Quick Bio
| Full Name | Richard Dawson |
| Gender | Male |
| Nationality | British-American |
| Ethnicity | British |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio |
| Profession | Actor, Comedian, Game-Show Host, Panelist |
| Famous for | “Hogan’s Heroes,” “Family Feud,” “Match Game” |
| Marital Status | Married (Twice) |
| Children | Shannon Dawson, Gary Dawson, & Shannon Dawson |
| Religion | N/A |
| Net Worth | N/A |
Early Life & Background
Richard Dawson, originally named Colin Lionel Emm, was born in England in 1932. Growing up during World War II in a working-class family, he faced challenges and even ran away at 14 to join the British Merchant Navy.
His early comedic success started with the stage name Dickie Dawson on the Benny Hill Showcase in 1954. After moving to California, he became famous for his role in the sitcom Hogan’s Heroes.
Changing his name to Richard Dawson marked a turning point, shaping his identity in the entertainment world. His experiences and diverse background made him a beloved personality, leaving a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.
Richard Dawson Married Twice In His Life
Richard Dawson got married two times in his life. His first wife was Diana Dors, a British actress, and they had two sons, Mark and Gary.
They got married in 1959 but later divorced in 1967. After that, Richard married Gretchen Johnson, whom he met on Family Feud in May 1981 when she was a contestant.
They officially became a couple in 1991 and had a daughter named Shannon Nicole Dawson in 1990. Richard and Gretchen stayed married until he passed away in 2012.
Marriage To Diana Dors
Richard Dawson’s first marriage was with British actress Diana Dors in 1959, and it brought both fame and family into his life. They had two sons, Mark and Gary, and Diana Dors became well-known for her roles in comedies during the ’50s and ’60s.
However, their marriage faced challenges, leading to a divorce in 1967. After the separation, Diana Dors married again and had a son named Jason, but sadly, she passed away from ovarian cancer in 1984 at the age of 52.
The end of this marriage marked a significant time for Richard Dawson, influencing how he viewed love and relationships in his life.
Who Is Diana Dors?
Diana Dors was born Diana Mary Fluck on October 23, 1931, in Swindon, Wiltshire, England. She started her acting journey at 15 when she joined the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art.
Her first movie, “The Shop at Sly Corner,” came out in 1946. Even though she got a 10-year contract with the Rank Organisation and joined the Rank Charm School, her screen career didn’t really take off, and her contract ended in 1950.
She changed her name to Diana Dors (after her grandmother) and had a brief appearance in “The Unholy Wife.”
Known for her glamorous image and often compared to Marilyn Monroe, Diana Dors had three marriages and three children. She passed away on May 4, 1984, at the Princess Margaret Hospital in Windsor.
| Full Name | Diana Mary Fluck |
| Born | October 23, 1931, in Swindon, Wiltshire, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio |
| Religion | Catholicism |
| Profession | English actress and singer |
| Famous For | Talented actress and comedienne |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Gender | Female |
| Sexual Orientation | Straight |
| Children | 3, including Mark Dawson |
| Death | May 4, 1984 |
| Net Worth | $1 million (at the time of her death) |
Finding New Love: Gretchen Johnson
Richard Dawson’s love story took a new turn in 1981 when he met Gretchen Johnson, an aspiring actress, on the show “Family Feud.”
They started dating and eventually got married in 1991. They became parents to a daughter, Shannon, in 1990. Richard Dawson retired from his TV career in 1985 to focus on family life with Gretchen.
However, their journey faced a tough challenge when Dawson was diagnosed with esophageal cancer in 2012. Despite the hardships, Gretchen stood by his side until he passed away, showing the strength of their enduring love.
Who Is Gretchen Johnson?
Gretchen Johnson, born on September 22, 1955, in Manhattan Beach, California, USA, is a National Geographic Explorer, Early Career Leader, AAUW Fellow, and Just-Julian Fellow.
Her journey with Richard Dawson began when she participated as a contestant on Family Feud in May 1981. They eventually married in 1991 and had a daughter named Shannon Nicole Dawson in 1990.
Following Richard Dawson’s death in 2012, Gretchen Johnson opted for a more private lifestyle, choosing to remain single and away from the media’s attention.
| Full Name | Gretchen Z. Johnson |
| Occupation | National Geographic Explorer |
| Research Expertise | Specializes in psychosocial risks, cultural, and historical sites |
| Affiliation | Associated with Visitor Services at The Florida Holocaust Museum |
| Nationality | American |
| Famous For | Widely known as the second wife of the late Richard Dawson |
| Gender | Female |
| Sexual Orientation | N/A |
| Net Worth | N/A |
Richard Dawson’s Children
Richard Dawson had three children. Mark Dawson, born on February 4, 1960, is the oldest from his first marriage to Diana Dors.
Gary Dawson, born in 1962, is the second child from the same marriage. Shannon Dawson, born in 1990, is the daughter of Richard Dawson and his second wife, Gretchen Johnson.
Mark Dawson
Mark Dawson, the eldest son of Richard Dawson and Diana Dors, carved a diverse career in entertainment. Starting with early appearances on Family Feud, he transitioned to roles behind the scenes.
He worked as an assistant to producer Mark Goodson and a writer for popular game shows. Mark’s creative journey continued as a consultant for the second run of Family Feud and as an associate producer for You Bet Your Life.
Beyond television, he explored the music industry, leading The Midnight He band and pursuing a solo career. Mark also showcased his passion for music as a syndicated host of “Making Noise With Mark Dawson” on various radio stations.
Gary Dawson
Gary Dawson leads a private life. Though specifics about his early years are scarce, Gary has made a mark in both entertainment, working as a producer, and the jewelry industry. Specializing in personalized jewelry services, he caters to the unique needs of his clients.
Shannon Dawson
Shannon Dawson was born on April 5, 1977, in Danville, Kentucky. She is the daughter of actor and game show host Richard Dawson and his second wife, Gretchen Johnson.
Although specific details about her early life and career are limited, Shannon has opted for a private life and hasn’t pursued a career in entertainment, unlike her father and half-siblings, Mark and Gary.
Richard Dawson’s Physical Attributes
| Physical Attribute | Measurement |
| Height | 5 feet 9 inches (1.75 meters) |
| Weight | 69 kg (159 pounds) |
| Hair Color | Grey |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Skin | N/A |
Richard Dawson’s Career Highlights
Richard Dawson’s career was diverse, starting with stand-up comedy at 21 using the name Dickie Dawson. He gained early TV exposure in the BBC program “Benny Hill Showcase” in 1954.
His acting journey kicked off in the 1960s, notably with “Hogan’s Heroes.” However, he truly shone as the original host of “Family Feud” from 1976 to 1985, presiding over thousands of episodes with charm.
Retiring in 1985, Dawson left a lasting mark, known for his infectious laughter and genuine warmth. His TV legacy reflects a remarkable journey from comedy and acting to becoming an iconic game show host.
Richard Dawson’s Health Struggles & Passing
In the later years of his life, Richard Dawson went through tough times because of his health. In 2012, he found out he had esophageal cancer, and it was a result of smoking a lot throughout his life.
He battled the cancer for only three weeks, with support from his wife Gretchen Johnson, their daughter Shannon, and his two sons. Sadly, on June 2, 2012, Richard passed away at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles.
His struggle with health issues showed how important it is to think about the consequences of our habits. Even though he faced challenges, Richard Dawson’s impact on TV and the love of his fans will always be remembered.
Richard Dawson’s Net Worth
Richard Dawson’s net worth, estimated to be around $100,000 at the time of his death in 2012, was predominantly earned through his successful television career. His contributions as an actor, comedian, and game show host played a pivotal role in accumulating his financial wealth.
