Stephen Valentine Patrick William "
Steve"
Allen (December 26, 1921 – October 30, 2000) was an American television personality, musician, composer, actor, comedian, and writer. Though he got his start in radio, Allen is best known for his television career. He first gained national attention as a guest host on
Arthur Godfrey's Talent Scouts. He graduated to become the first host of
The Tonight Show, where he was instrumental in innovating the concept of the television talk show. Thereafter, he hosted numerous game and variety shows, including
The Steve Allen Show,
I've Got a Secret, and
The New Steve Allen Show, and was a regular panel member on CBS'
What's My Line?