Phyllis Diller was transitioning from housewife to nightclub performer when she went on "You Bet Your Life". She was noticed by George Fenneman during her 89-week run at the legendary Purple Onion in San Francisco, and he recommended that she be on the show. It was her first television appearance, which was a big break for her. She was soon a nationally known star, and Groucho always took great pride in her success.