Contestants on 'Family Feud' Underwent Herpes Testing During Richard Dawson's Tenure: Book

According to a new book, "Family Feud" contestants during Richard Dawson's tenure as host were allegedly required to take herpes tests due to his habit of kissing female players on the mouth. The show endorsed the policy, and both male and female contestants had to undergo a mouth test with a magnifying glass. The assessments were implemented after complaints from competitors and a published letter criticizing the show for "promiscuous kissing." The book challenges the notion that such behavior was acceptable at the time, highlighting the complaints received. Dawson explained that he started kissing contestants to ease tension, but the new revelations shed light on the controversy surrounding his actions.