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Entertainment • Television host

Alan Hamel

Alan Hamel is a Canadian television host, producer, writer, and entertainer from Toronto, Ontario.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Alan Hamel is a Canadian television host, producer, writer, and entertainer from Toronto, Ontario. He became known for hosting children's and game shows in Canada, including *Razzle Dazzle*, and later for *The Alan Hamel Show* on CTV. He was married to actress Suzanne Somers from 1977 until her death in 2023.

Early life and background

Alan Hamel was born in Toronto, Ontario, in 1936. He began his career in Canadian broadcasting and is identified as a Canadian entertainer and television personality.

Television career

Hamel became known for Canadian television work, including co-hosting the children's series *Razzle Dazzle* in the 1960s. He later hosted game shows such as *Wedding Party* and *Anniversary Game*. In the 1970s, he hosted *The Alan Hamel Show*, a daytime talk show on CTV.

Producing and other work

In addition to hosting, Hamel has been credited as a producer and actor on film and television projects. Available biographies list productions associated with him, including projects connected to Suzanne Somers.

Personal life

Hamel was previously married to Marilyn Shapiro. He married actress Suzanne Somers in 1977. Their marriage became a long-running public partnership in entertainment and business, lasting until Somers's death in 2023.

Key facts

  • Alan Hamel is a Canadian television host, producer, writer, and entertainer born in Toronto, Ontario.
  • He co-hosted the children's series *Razzle Dazzle* and hosted game shows like *Wedding Party* and *Anniversary Game*.
  • He hosted the CTV daytime talk show *The Alan Hamel Show* in the 1970s.
  • He was married to actress Suzanne Somers from 1977 until her death in 2023.
  • His career includes work as a producer and actor in addition to hosting.
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Canadian context

Alan Hamel is part of Canadian television history, with early work on CBC and later success on CTV. His career is relevant to Canadian readers as an example of a Toronto-born broadcaster who became nationally known in Canada before working in the United States.

Frequently asked questions

What is Alan Hamel known for?
He is known as a Canadian television host and entertainer, especially for *Razzle Dazzle* and *The Alan Hamel Show*.
Where was Alan Hamel born?
He was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
What shows did Alan Hamel host?
Sources list *Razzle Dazzle*, *Wedding Party*, *Anniversary Game*, and *The Alan Hamel Show* among his hosting credits.
Who was Alan Hamel married to?
He was married to actress Suzanne Somers from 1977 until her death in 2023.
What is Alan Hamel's profession?
He is a television host, producer, writer, entertainer, and actor.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alan_Hamel
    Supports: Canadian entertainer, producer, and television host; born June 30, 1936; Toronto origin
  2. Wikipedia (Simple English) — https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alan_Hamel
    Supports: Toronto birthplace; hosting credits including Razzle Dazzle, Wedding Party, Anniversary Game, and The Alan Hamel Show
  3. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0357519/
    Supports: Birthplace; occupation as producer and actor; credits and spouses
  4. YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RW2m4D3HYkY
    Supports: Career overview including early broadcast work, Canadian television career, and partnership with Suzanne Somers