If you've ever watched Family Feud, you probably remember Richard Dawson, the charming host who became famous for kissing contestants. That tradition started almost by accident, according to his son, Mark Dawson. "It all began when a contestant was so nervous that my dad decided to give her a little kiss for good luck," Mark tells Closer Weekly. "That one little act of kindness turned into a beloved tradition that people came to expect from him."

A Heartwarming Legacy

Richard Dawson wasn’t just a TV personality; he was a man with a heart full of empathy and charm. His ability to connect with people, whether it was through a quick kiss or his quick wit, made him a household name. But beyond the screen, Richard was also a devoted father to his three children—sons Mark and Gary, and daughter Shannon. For them, he wasn’t just a famous TV dad but a man who truly cared and inspired those around him.

Growing Up with Richard Dawson

"If I could design the perfect father, I couldn't have done better than him," Mark shares with genuine admiration. "He was more than just a dad—he was my best friend and my life coach. He was there for everything, and he always made time for us, no matter how busy his life got." Richard grew up in a modest British town where he worked odd jobs, from a bus conductor to a waiter. "Even after he became famous, he never lost sight of his roots," Mark recalls. "Most of his friends had regular jobs, and he always believed that celebrities often cared more about themselves than others."

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Breaking into Show Business

Richard Dawson’s journey into entertainment began as a stand-up comedian, but it was his role in Hogan’s Heroes that brought him to the attention of American audiences. Running from 1965 to 1971, the show coincided with a significant personal change—his divorce from British actress Diana Dors. "During that time, he could have easily let the kids go with her, but he fought hard to keep us," Mark remembers. "He was starting to make a name for himself, but he prioritized his family above all else."

A Champion for Equality

Richard’s time on Family Feud wasn’t just about the game—it was about breaking barriers. "Some people were upset because he kissed women of all races," Mark explains. "There was even talk of a major sponsor pulling their ads. But Dad didn’t back down. Instead, he asked the audience to vote, and they overwhelmingly supported him." This moment wasn’t just about a TV show; it was about standing up for what’s right. "My father believed in shining a light on injustice, and he taught me the importance of that," Mark says.

A Father's Philosophy

When it came to raising his kids, Richard preferred to guide rather than punish. "He would discipline us by saying, 'You’ve really disappointed me,' and that was more impactful than any physical punishment," Mark explains. Richard also imparted valuable life advice. "He told me, 'Go through life unscathed,'" Mark recalls. "What he meant was, life is too short to waste on negativity. Enjoy every moment, have fun, and make the most of it. That’s a lesson I carry with me every day."

For more heartwarming stories about Richard Dawson and his family, grab the latest issue of Closer Weekly, available now at newsstands!