Tragic Car Accident That Took the Life of 'What's My Line?' Larry Blyden

May 2024 · 2 minute read

Larry Blyden, who became the host of the syndicated revival version of the panel game show "What's My Line," died of injuries sustained in a car accident while vacationing in Morocco.

On May 31, 1975, Blyden's rental car reportedly went off the road and overturned while driving near Agadir, Morocco. As indicated by his agent Lionel Larner, the versatile theatrical performer endured injuries and underwent surgery.

Larry Blyden in 1962 | Photo: Wikimedia Commons

However, Blyden passed away from his injuries on June 6. His tragic demise came 17 days before his 50th birthday.

A week later, his body was flown back to the US, and a memorial was held on June 20. He was then buried at Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery in Houston.

His movie roles were rare because of his extremely temperate, clean-cut image which a few faultfinders considered as bland.

Carol Burnett and Larry Blyden in 1960 | Photo: Wikimedia Commons

At the time of his death, Blyden was at a high point in his career. He was about to start hosting a game show called "Showoffs," after his vacation in Morocco. Unfortunately, that would be the last vacation of his life.

Born on June 23, 1925, Blyden became keen on acting at a youthful age. When he was 14 years of age, he made his stage debut in a production. In 1948, he moved to New York City to pursue an acting career.

It was Broadway that gave Blyden marquee value. At first, he was a prominent presence in a television drama in the early 1950s. However, he discovered a more comfortable niche in comedy as his career advanced.

His movie roles were rare because of his extremely temperate, clean-cut image which a few faultfinders considered as bland.

Blyden was likewise a big game show aficionado. He became a well-known daytime face when he was picked to host the syndicated, "What's My Line?"

In 1955, he married dancer and choreographer Carol Haney. They were divorced in 1962, and after two years she died at 39 years old. They had two children — Joshua and Ellen Rachel.

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