The name of the Kirward Derby (the legendary hat that makes its wearer the smartest person in the world) is a spoof on the name of TV host Durward Kirby, who reportedly was none too pleased by the honor, and considered suing the show.
Boris Badenov disguises himself as "Moose on the Street" radio interviewer Art Looklater, a spoof on radio and television personality Art Linkletter, host of "House Party" (1945-1967 on radio, also The Linkletter Show (1952) on TV) and "People are Funny" (1943-1960 on radio, also People Are Funny (1954) on TV).