Radar on Match Game

Match Game used a bunch of semi-regulars (hm, sounds a little suspicious) in its 1973-82 run. One of the most memorable was Radar O'Reilly from M*A*S*H, a.k.a. Gary Burghoff.

The show handed Burghoff the large task of replacing Charles Nelson Reilly for several months in 1974-75. Reilly was wasting time in Neil Simon's forgettable and forgotten God's Favorite. After a few overanxious missteps, Burghoff figured out that Match Game was an ensemble show. He started picking his spots more carefully and earning his keep.

His best bit might have been "coming on down" after Johnny Olsen's booming invitation. Burghoff also picked up, wouldn't you know, a wicked Reilly imitation. Gary used it to very funny effect when Charles came back from that play everybody has forgotten.

Burghoff chipped in more guest turns on Match Game after Reilly took back his usual top right seat. Wikipedia says he piled up 248 eps in all, and I'm not going to count them on the episode guide to check. Gary lists several other game shows on his resume, but Match Game was always his best gift to the genre.