"The $64,000 Question" was a popular American television quiz show that aired in the 1950s. Contestants answered increasingly difficult questions for escalating cash prizes, starting at $64,000. The show became famous for its suspenseful format and the dramatic tension surrounding the final questions. The program was created by Merv Griffin and was notable for its impact on American culture, inspiring other quiz shows. It also faced controversy when it was revealed that some contestants had been given answers in advance, leading to a scandal that affected the show's reputation and the quiz show genre as a whole.