Steve Allen

Steve Allen (December 26, 1921 – October 30, 2000) was an American television and radio personality, comedian, musician, composer, writer, and actor. He achieved national fame as the co-creator and first host of The Tonight Show, the first late-night television talk show. Allen's career spanned both radio and television, but he is best known for his extensive work on network television. He hosted numerous game and variety shows, including The Steve Allen Show, I've Got a Secret, and The New Steve Allen Show. Allen also had a successful career as a composer and pianist, writing more than 8,500 songs. He was a regular panel member on CBS's What's My Line? and hosted the award-winning public broadcasting show Meeting of Minds.