Wacky Wednesday Comedy Showcase: "Bound and Gagged" - A Candid Camera Classic

Candid Camera was a popular and long-running American hidden camera reality television series. Versions of the show appeared on television from 1948 until 2014. Originally created and produced by Allen Funt, it often featured practical jokes, and initially began on radio as The Candid Microphone on June 28, 1947. 

The show involved concealed cameras filming ordinary people being confronted with unusual situations, sometimes involving trick props, such as a desk with drawers that pop open when one is closed or a car with a hidden extra gas tank. When the joke was revealed, victims were told the show's catchphrase, "Smile, you're on Candid Camera." The catchphrase became a song with music and lyrics by Sid Ramin.

In this classic episode the Candid Camera team rigged an office to look like a robbery had just taken place. Allen Funt played the role of the victim who was bound and gagged. This prank was designed to explore social behavior, examining whether individuals choose to intervene or ignore someone seemingly in distress. What would you do if you walked into the office and witnessed the scene? Unbind him? Call the police? Or just walk away? 

Enjoy!