High Finance (game show)

High Finance was an American game show that aired on CBS from 1956 to 1957. The show was hosted by Dennis James.

Format

The game involved contestants answering progressively more difficult general knowledge questions. The cash prize increased with each correct answer, similar to other "quiz show" formats of the era. The distinguishing feature of High Finance was the potential for contestants to win very large sums of money, a characteristic that made it a subject of controversy during the quiz show scandals.

Quiz Show Scandals

High Finance became embroiled in the quiz show scandals of the late 1950s. The show was accused of being rigged, with contestants allegedly receiving answers in advance. These accusations, along with similar claims against other high-stakes quiz shows, led to congressional investigations and significant reforms in the broadcasting industry. The show was cancelled amidst the investigations. The scandals raised serious questions about the integrity of television programming and the ethics of manipulating game shows for higher ratings.