Nicholas Parsons

If it hadn't been for a BBC talent scout, Nicholas Parsons might have continued his engineering studies and never become a successful comedian, actor and TV quiz-show host. Parsons started acting in the 1940s with small roles in West End stage productions, and soon migrated to film and television. In 1957, Parsons joined the cast of the popular sketch comedy series "The Arthur Haynes Show" as the straight man to Haynes' manic characters. His ability to maintain composure, no matter how ridiculous or hilarious the scenario, earned him widespread acclaim and led him to join the classic British comedy series "The Benny Hill Show." Parsons landed one of his most famous roles in 1971 when he accepted hosting duties on the popular and long-running primetime quiz series "Sale of the Century," which offered contestants the chance to purchase gifts in addition to earning cash prizes for each correct answer. After leaving the show in 1983, he became a regular guest on game shows like the "Hollywood Squares"-inspired "Punchlines!," and "You Bet!," where celebrities wagered on challenges performed by the public. Parsons scored another primetime hit in 1994 when he became host of the TV adaptation of the popular BBC Radio 4 series "Just a Minute," which gave participants one minute to speak about a subject without stopping or changing subjects. He has since become honorary Chairman of the International Quizzing Association and been elected Rector of the University of St. Andrews.