Definition
Barris Industries was an American television production and distribution company that specialized in creating and syndicating game shows and other entertainment programming.
Overview
Founded by television producer and host Chuck Barris in the mid‑1960s, the company initially operated under the name Chuck Barris Productions before being reorganized as Barris Industries. It became a publicly traded entity in the early 1970s and produced a series of popular game shows, including The Dating Game, The Newlywed Game, and The Gong Show. The firm also handled syndication and distribution of its own and third‑party programming. In the late 1980s, Barris Industries was acquired by the Gannett Company and subsequently operated under the Gannett Television banner before its assets were eventually absorbed into other media entities.
Etymology/Origin
The name “Barris Industries” derives directly from its founder, Chuck Barris (born Charles Hirsch Barris), reflecting the common practice of naming production firms after their principal creator or owner.
Characteristics
- Industry sector: Television production and syndication, primarily focused on game shows and reality‑type formats.
- Corporate structure: Publicly held corporation after its 1971 stock offering; later a subsidiary of the Gannett Company.
- Key productions: The Dating Game (1965–1973), The Newlywed Game (1966–1974, later revivals), The Gong Show (1976–1978), among others.
- Business activities: Development of original formats, production of broadcast and syndicated series, and worldwide distribution of television content.
- Historical milestones:
- 1965 – Chuck Barris establishes Chuck Barris Productions.
- Early 1970s – Reorganization and public listing as Barris Industries.
- Late 1970s – Rebranding to Barris Television.
- 1989 – Acquisition by the Gannett Company, leading to integration into Gannett Television.
Related Topics
- Chuck Barris (television producer and former game‑show host)
- Game show television genre
- Gannett Company (media conglomerate)
- Television production companies in the United States
- The Gong Show, The Dating Game, The Newlywed Game (notable programs produced by the company)