Born Name:  Raymond Neil Combs Jr.

Born Date:  April 3, 1956

Born Place:  Hamilton, Ohio

Died Date:  June 2, 1996

Died Place:  Glendale, California

Occupations:  Comedian, actor, game show host

Brief Biography:  Raymond Neil Combs Jr. was best known for hosting the revival of the game show Family Feud from 1988 to 1994. Known for his "everyman" charm and quick wit, Combs was highly popular on the stand-up comedy circuit before transitioning to television.

Early Life and Career:
Missionary Work: He served a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Arizona.
Comedy Roots: He started in stand-up at the Red Dog Saloon in Cincinnati, Ohio, often doing comedy routines with audience sing-alongs of sitcom themes.
Move to LA: In 1982, he moved to Los Angeles, working as a furniture salesman before getting jobs as an audience warm-up comedian for shows like The Golden Girls.
Breakthrough: In 1986, he became the first person to receive a standing ovation on his first appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.

Family Feud and Television:
Family Feud Host: On July 4, 1988, he was introduced as the new host of Family Feud, hosting the CBS daytime and syndicated versions until 1994.
Other Projects: He appeared in the 1987 film Overboard, made a guest appearance on The Facts of Life, and appeared at WrestleMania VIII in 1992. He later hosted Family Challenge (1995–1996).

Personal Life:
Setbacks: Following his departure from Family Feud, his life took a downward turn, including a 1994 car accident that caused significant, chronic back pain and financial difficulties related to his comedy clubs.