Zoom Meetings Aren’t New: Hollywood Squares or Brady Bunch Anyone?

In the realm of virtual communication, Zoom has become a household name. With its widespread use for remote work, online classes, and even virtual social gatherings, it has revolutionized the way we connect in the digital age. But have you ever stopped to think about how Zoom Meetings compare to some classic pop culture references? In this blog post, we will explore the similarities between Zoom Meetings and two iconic television shows: Hollywood Squares and the Brady Bunch (intro).

Hollywood Squares

Remember the game show called Hollywood Squares, which aired from 1966 to 2004? It featured a tic-tac-toe board of nine celebrities, each occupying a square, and contestants had to decide whether the celebrity’s answer to a question was true or false. Zoom Meetings echo this format in the sense that participants are displayed on a grid, much like the squares in Hollywood Squares. Instead of celebrities, we have colleagues, friends, or family members occupying each square, contributing their insights and opinions to the conversation.

Just like in Hollywood Squares, Zoom Meetings also bring together a diverse group of individuals, each with their unique perspectives and experiences. The virtual grid allows for simultaneous interaction and engagement, creating an engaging and dynamic environment for discussion. And just as contestants relied on the knowledge and wit of the celebrities in Hollywood Squares, participants in Zoom Meetings benefit from the collective wisdom and expertise of their fellow gridmates.

The Brady Bunch

Now let’s turn our attention to the iconic Brady Bunch introduction, which features a grid of nine small windows, each showcasing a member of the Brady family. As the theme song plays, the characters look at each other, providing a sense of connection despite being physically separated. This concept aligns closely with the way Zoom Meetings operate.

Just as the Brady family members exchange glances and smiles in the introduction, participants in Zoom Meetings can utilize non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and gestures, to communicate and connect with others in the virtual space.

The Brady Bunch intro highlights the personalities and quirks of each family member, giving viewers a glimpse into their lives. Similarly, Zoom Meetings allow participants to share their personal stories, experiences, and insights, enabling a deeper understanding of one another. This sharing of perspectives fosters empathy, collaboration, and a sense of camaraderie, much like the Brady Bunch introduction sought to do.

Enjoy your next Zoom Meeting!

While Zoom Meetings may be a product of the digital age, it wasn’t the first to share the concept of a grid of people collaborating. Zoom Meetings looks a lot like the two beloved pop culture references: Hollywood Squares and the Brady Bunch. From the grid-like layout to the diverse range of participants and the ability to foster connection and share experiences, Zoom Meetings capture the essence of these classic elements in their own unique way. There is a good chance you will think of one of these shows when you join your next Zoom call. You’re welcome! :)