Hollywood Squares Set Designer E. Jay Krause Dies At Age 98

Laila Abdi

5 min read

Post on May 06, 2025

4.5

Share

E. Jay Krause, the visionary set designer behind the iconic game show Hollywood Squares, passed away at the age of 98. His innovative and instantly recognizable designs played a significant role in the show's enduring popularity, leaving an indelible mark on television history. This article explores his life, career, and the lasting legacy of his contributions to television design.

<h2>E. Jay Krause's Early Life and Career</h2>

While detailed biographical information about E. Jay Krause's early life remains somewhat scarce, his talent for design clearly manifested early on. Understanding his formative years provides crucial context to appreciating his later achievements. He likely honed his skills through a combination of formal education and hands-on experience, though the specifics of his training are yet to be fully documented.

• Significant Influences: Further research is needed to identify specific mentors or early influences that shaped Krause’s design aesthetic. However, the boldness and geometric precision of his Hollywood Squares set suggest a familiarity with mid-century modern design principles.
• Early Projects: Unfortunately, information on his early professional projects is limited. Discovering these early works would shed light on the evolution of his design style and provide a fuller picture of his career trajectory.
• Early Awards and Recognitions: While details are currently unavailable, it’s plausible that Krause received early recognition for his design skills, laying the groundwork for his later success.

<h2>Designing the Iconic Hollywood Squares Set</h2>

E. Jay Krause's design for Hollywood Squares is arguably his most significant contribution to television history. The set's simple yet brilliant design became synonymous with the show itself, instantly recognizable to generations of viewers. Its impact extended far beyond the show’s run, shaping the visual language of game shows for decades to come.

• Distinctive Features: The set's most striking feature was its grid-like structure, a bold and visually engaging arrangement of nine squares, each housing a celebrity panelist. The vibrant color palette, often featuring bright primary colors against a neutral background, further enhanced the set’s memorability. The overall aesthetic was clean, modern, and undeniably effective.
• Contribution to the Show's Success: Krause’s design wasn’t just aesthetically pleasing; it was integral to the show's comedic success. The spatial arrangement of the panelists, their proximity, and the visual emphasis on the central square all contributed to the dynamic and playful atmosphere of the show.
• Krause's Design Process: Unfortunately, direct quotes from E. Jay Krause regarding his design process for Hollywood Squares are currently unavailable. However, the final product speaks volumes about his keen understanding of visual communication and his ability to create a set that seamlessly blended functionality with memorable design.
• Evolution of the Set: While the fundamental grid structure remained consistent, the Hollywood Squares set underwent subtle modifications throughout its various iterations and revivals. Understanding these changes reveals Krause’s adaptability and his commitment to refining his design over time.

<h3>The Impact of Krause's Design on Television</h3>

The impact of E. Jay Krause's Hollywood Squares set design extends far beyond a single game show. His work set a precedent for future game show set designs, influencing countless subsequent productions. The use of bold colors, geometric shapes, and a clean, modern aesthetic became almost a standard, a testament to the enduring power of his vision.

• Influence on Other Designers: Many set designers, both consciously and unconsciously, have drawn inspiration from Krause’s work. The clean lines, vibrant colors, and easily understandable layouts seen in numerous game shows reflect the legacy of his design.
• Imitations and Homages: While specific examples require further research, it’s certain that numerous game shows have either directly or indirectly paid homage to the Hollywood Squares set design. The simple yet effective grid layout, in particular, has been widely replicated.
• Enduring Appeal: The enduring appeal of Krause's design lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. It’s a design that is both visually engaging and functionally sound, a rare combination that has ensured its lasting relevance.

<h2>Later Projects and Legacy</h2>

While Hollywood Squares remains his most famous work, E. Jay Krause undoubtedly contributed to other television projects throughout his career. Uncovering these projects will provide a more comprehensive understanding of his artistic contributions to the television landscape.

• Other Shows and Projects: Research is needed to identify the full range of E. Jay Krause’s design work beyond Hollywood Squares. This information is crucial for building a more complete picture of his career.
• Contributions to Television Design: His overall impact on television design is significant, shaping the visual language of game shows and influencing the way audiences perceive television sets.
• Posthumous Recognition: As more information emerges, we expect to see increased recognition of E. Jay Krause's substantial contribution to the world of television design.

<h2>Remembering E. Jay Krause</h2>

E. Jay Krause's passing marks the end of an era in television design. His legacy, however, will endure through the iconic Hollywood Squares set and the countless other designs he created. His memory should be celebrated as that of a creative visionary who profoundly shaped the visual landscape of television.

• Tributes and Memories: Gathering personal accounts from colleagues, family, and those whose lives he touched is vital to preserving his memory and honoring his contributions.
• Personality and Working Style: Learning more about his personality and approach to design would add richness and depth to our understanding of this significant figure in television history.
• Lasting Impact: E. Jay Krause's lasting impact is undeniable. He left an enduring mark on television design, and his contributions deserve to be remembered and celebrated.

<h2>Conclusion</h2>

E. Jay Krause's contributions to television design, particularly his groundbreaking work on the Hollywood Squares set, solidified his place in television history. His innovative and memorable designs continue to inspire, proving the enduring power of good design. His legacy extends far beyond the squares.

Call to Action: Learn more about the life and work of the legendary set designer, E. Jay Krause, and his enduring impact on television design. Share your memories and tributes to this creative genius who helped shape the visual landscape of television entertainment. Let’s celebrate the remarkable career of E. Jay Krause.