Allen Ludden, known for his distinctive horn-rimmed glasses, seemed more like an academic than a television host. However, his infectious enthusiasm made him one of the most popular game show hosts of the 1950s through the '70s. His wife, Betty White, attributes his charm to his genuine interest in everything.

Ludden was born on October 5, 1917, in Mineral Point, Wisconsin, and grew up in San Antonio. He attended the University of Texas, where he studied English. During World War II, he served as an Army officer before finding work with the CBS radio network. It was during this time that he married Martha McGloin and started their family.

Ludden's passion for education led him to host the TV game show G.E. College Bowl in 1953. He then went on to host the popular CBS series Password from 1961 to 1967. The show introduced the concept of celebrities teaming up with contestants, and it was during the first season of Password that Ludden met Betty White.

Tragedy struck in 1961 when McGloin passed away from cancer, leaving Ludden with three children. Despite proposing to her multiple times, White, who had been married twice before, finally accepted Ludden's proposal in 1963.

White revealed that she couldn't imagine living without him and didn't want to miss the opportunity to marry him.

In 1976, Ludden won his first Emmy as TV's top daytime announcer and continued hosting shows like Stumpers. However, his luck changed when he was diagnosed with terminal stomach cancer in the late 1970s. He and White built their dream home in Carmel, California, and Ludden's slow progression of the disease allowed him to spend his final days there.

After Ludden's passing on June 9, 1981, White reflected on their love. She never remarried, stating that she had found the love of her life. Today, their stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame remain side by side, symbolizing their everlasting bond.