1 9 5 9 – 1 9 6 1 (UK)
30 minute episodes
This early British gameshow from ABC was based on the US show of the same name which debuted in 1958 with Bill Nimmo hosting.
Contestants were offered the choice of taking the offered prize or gambling on winning cash – a sum ranging from nine shillings to 9,999 shillings (just short of £500) with the amount decided by a “flying shilling sign” which moved randomly along a display of four nines.
While Bob Monkhouse is the best-remembered and longest-serving host, other hosts included Keith Fordyce, Dickie Henderson and Des O’Connor. Monkhouse developed the comedy technique for which he became famous during the run of For Love or Money – sprinkling jokes throughout the series, creating a frivolous atmosphere that didn’t stretch or disturb the viewers.
Host
Bob Monkhouse
Keith Fordyce
Jimmy Jewel
Des O’Connor
Ben Warriss
Dickie Henderson
Hostess
Ann Taylor
Announcer
Barry Faber
Prize Girl
Nicky Allen