E. Jay Krause Dead At 98: Hollywood Squares Set Designer Passes Away

Viktoria Ivanova

4 min read

Post on May 06, 2025

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E. Jay Krause's Career Highlights Beyond Hollywood Squares

While Hollywood Squares cemented his legacy, Krause's career spanned decades and encompassed a range of successful television programs. He was a true master of set design, adapting his style to suit the unique needs of each show. He understood that a well-designed set wasn't just a backdrop; it was an integral part of the storytelling experience. His keen eye for detail and his ability to create visually stunning and functional spaces made him one of the most sought-after set designers of his generation.

• The Match Game (1973-1979): Krause’s design for The Match Game emphasized bright, playful colors and a modern aesthetic, reflecting the show's energetic and competitive atmosphere. The set featured bold geometric shapes and a vibrant color palette that perfectly complemented the show's fast-paced format.

• Password (1974-1975): This version of Password featured a more intimate set design compared to other game shows of the era. Krause utilized warmer tones and a more relaxed layout to create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for both contestants and viewers.

• Tattletales (1974-1978): The set for Tattletales was designed to emphasize the playful and sometimes mischievous nature of the show. It featured a lively color scheme and comfortable seating arrangements to encourage interaction between the celebrity couples and enhance the humorous element of the game.

Throughout his career, Krause received numerous accolades for his outstanding work. While specific awards aren't widely documented, his contribution to television design is undeniable, evidenced by his long and successful career designing iconic sets for many beloved game shows. His impact on the visual landscape of television remains a significant achievement.

The Enduring Legacy of the Hollywood Squares Set Design

Krause's design for Hollywood Squares was more than just a backdrop; it was an integral part of the show's success and enduring popularity. The iconic set became synonymous with the show itself, and its design has influenced countless game shows that followed. The set’s genius lay not only in its visual appeal but also in its functionality.

• The iconic grid layout: This instantly recognizable grid layout not only provided a visually engaging structure but also perfectly facilitated the game's mechanics, making it easy for viewers to follow the action and understand the show's structure.

• The color palette: Krause’s thoughtful choice of colors created a fun, yet sophisticated, aesthetic that appealed to a wide range of viewers. The vibrant yet balanced color scheme complemented the show's overall tone and contributed to its timeless appeal.

• Innovative use of space: The set design cleverly maximized the available space, ensuring that all aspects of the game were clearly visible to the audience while maintaining a clean, uncluttered look. This innovative use of space was a hallmark of Krause's design philosophy.

The enduring legacy of the Hollywood Squares set design lies in its ability to remain instantly recognizable and deeply associated with the show’s success. It’s a testament to Krause’s skill in creating a set that wasn't merely functional but also iconic and culturally significant.

Remembering E. Jay Krause: Tributes and Reactions

While formal public statements from family and colleagues may be limited, the television design community is undoubtedly mourning the loss of this visionary. His impact resonates throughout the industry, inspiring generations of set designers. Social media is likely to reflect this sentiment with tributes and remembrances appearing online. [Insert links to relevant news articles or social media posts here, if available]. The quiet elegance and functionality of his designs will be profoundly missed. His contribution to the television landscape will be remembered for years to come.

Conclusion

E. Jay Krause's passing marks the end of an era in television set design. His innovative work, particularly the unforgettable Hollywood Squares set, leaves an enduring legacy. His designs weren't simply functional; they were integral to the shows' identities, shaping the viewing experience for generations. His talent for creating visually appealing and functionally efficient sets stands as a testament to his mastery of the craft. Share your memories of E. Jay Krause's iconic Hollywood Squares set design using #EJayKrause #HollywoodSquares #SetDesign. Let's celebrate the legacy of this remarkable artist!