Shecky Greene, the legendary standup comedian known for his long tenure as a Las Vegas headliner and for working with Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, died Dec. 31 at his home in the city. He was 97.
Greene’s wife of 41 years, Marie Musso Greene, confirmed his death to the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
Greene was a regular on the TV talk show and guest star circuit in his 1960s and ’70s heyday, when he often sported a comb-over haircut and wide-lapel suits. Earlier in his career, he came to represent the epitome of the Rat Pack-adjacent comedian in a tux, delivering lightly risque or edgy anecdotal stories and zingers on stage.
Greene was known for his many appearances on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” and for working as the opening act for Sinatra in Miami and Presley in Las Vegas. During the 1962-63 season, he played a recurring character on the...
Greene’s wife of 41 years, Marie Musso Greene, confirmed his death to the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
Greene was a regular on the TV talk show and guest star circuit in his 1960s and ’70s heyday, when he often sported a comb-over haircut and wide-lapel suits. Earlier in his career, he came to represent the epitome of the Rat Pack-adjacent comedian in a tux, delivering lightly risque or edgy anecdotal stories and zingers on stage.
Greene was known for his many appearances on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” and for working as the opening act for Sinatra in Miami and Presley in Las Vegas. During the 1962-63 season, he played a recurring character on the...
- 12/31/2023
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
It seems as though the past few years have brought a resurgence of game shows, which were once a staple of both daytime and primetime television viewing. As a kid, I relished snow days and sick days when I could miss school and curl up on the sofa to watch all my favorites – “Pyramid,” “Family Feud” and “Password” were just a few. Every day after school I rushed through my homework so that I’d have time to watch “Tattletales” and “Tic Tac Dough.”
Game shows go all the way back to the days of radio, with one such program becoming the first game show to air on broadcast television – “Truth or Consequences” debuted on July 1, 1941, and before long the genre became a popular form of entertainment. All “Big Three” networks carried a variety of game shows on both daytime and primetime schedules until their popularity began to fizzle in the ’80s and ’90s.
Game shows go all the way back to the days of radio, with one such program becoming the first game show to air on broadcast television – “Truth or Consequences” debuted on July 1, 1941, and before long the genre became a popular form of entertainment. All “Big Three” networks carried a variety of game shows on both daytime and primetime schedules until their popularity began to fizzle in the ’80s and ’90s.
- 12/12/2023
- by Susan Pennington, Chris Beachum and Misty Holland
- Gold Derby
Tom Bergeron‘s 2020 firing continues to divide DWTS viewers. However, in a new interview, the television personality sheds new light on his departure from the celebrity competition series, claiming he “screwed” producers before leaving the series for good.
Ex-‘DWTS’ host Tom Bergeron says he ‘screwed’ producers after ‘they screwed him’
Tom Bergeron, who hosted DWTS from seasons one through 28, was a constant on the ever-evolving ABC series. From day one, he provided light banter while moving the live show along and, ultimately, became as integral a part of the series as its celebrities and dancers.
Bergeron remained DWTS‘ stalwart. He hosted alongside Lisa Canning in season one, Samantha Harris from seasons two through nine, Brooke Burke from seasons 10 through 17, and Erin Andrews from seasons 18 through 28.
ABC announced Bergeron and Andrews’ surprise exit in July 2020, stating that the show was heading in “a new creative direction.” Tyra Banks replaced Bergeron...
Ex-‘DWTS’ host Tom Bergeron says he ‘screwed’ producers after ‘they screwed him’
Tom Bergeron, who hosted DWTS from seasons one through 28, was a constant on the ever-evolving ABC series. From day one, he provided light banter while moving the live show along and, ultimately, became as integral a part of the series as its celebrities and dancers.
Bergeron remained DWTS‘ stalwart. He hosted alongside Lisa Canning in season one, Samantha Harris from seasons two through nine, Brooke Burke from seasons 10 through 17, and Erin Andrews from seasons 18 through 28.
ABC announced Bergeron and Andrews’ surprise exit in July 2020, stating that the show was heading in “a new creative direction.” Tyra Banks replaced Bergeron...
- 10/24/2023
- by Lucille Barilla
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Comedian and rapper Jacky Oh, real name Jacklyn Smith, died suddenly at 32 years old on May 31 in Miami. Now the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner’s Office has revealed that the MTV “Wild ‘N Out” star’s death was due to complications from cosmetic surgery.
Smith was part of the comedic rap battles show’s cast for five seasons, starting in 2014. She later pivoted to cosmetics, launching a lip gloss line and selling real estate. She was also the long-term partner of another “Wild ‘N Out” cast member, YouTuber DC Young Fly — they first met in 2015.
He continues to work on the show and is currently on tour, with dates announced through early next year. DC Young Fly is also set to host a “Hollywood Squares” reboot, “Celebrity Squares,” launching Oct. 17 on VH1.
Smith is survived by three children she shared with DC Young Fly: Nala, Nova and Prince. She also appeared on “Marc + Jenni,...
Smith was part of the comedic rap battles show’s cast for five seasons, starting in 2014. She later pivoted to cosmetics, launching a lip gloss line and selling real estate. She was also the long-term partner of another “Wild ‘N Out” cast member, YouTuber DC Young Fly — they first met in 2015.
He continues to work on the show and is currently on tour, with dates announced through early next year. DC Young Fly is also set to host a “Hollywood Squares” reboot, “Celebrity Squares,” launching Oct. 17 on VH1.
Smith is survived by three children she shared with DC Young Fly: Nala, Nova and Prince. She also appeared on “Marc + Jenni,...
- 9/30/2023
- by Mike Roe
- The Wrap
This post contains spoilers for the first episode of "The Twilight Zone."
The first episode of Rod Serling's anthology series "The Twilight Zone" aired on October 2, 1959. The episode was called "Where Is Everybody?," and it starred Earl Holliman as a man with no memories, walking down a dirt road. He arrives in a small town. No one is there. He cries out for anyone, but no one answers. He tries the public telephone, but there is no operator. He sees a woman in a car, but she turns out to be a mere mannequin. He helps himself to some diner food, which is still fresh. Machines seem to operate on their own, as when our hero goes to a movie theater and the picture starts automatically. What is happening? Is everyone hiding? Where is everybody? The solitude slowly begins to drive him into a panic.
The twist ending: the...
The first episode of Rod Serling's anthology series "The Twilight Zone" aired on October 2, 1959. The episode was called "Where Is Everybody?," and it starred Earl Holliman as a man with no memories, walking down a dirt road. He arrives in a small town. No one is there. He cries out for anyone, but no one answers. He tries the public telephone, but there is no operator. He sees a woman in a car, but she turns out to be a mere mannequin. He helps himself to some diner food, which is still fresh. Machines seem to operate on their own, as when our hero goes to a movie theater and the picture starts automatically. What is happening? Is everyone hiding? Where is everybody? The solitude slowly begins to drive him into a panic.
The twist ending: the...
- 9/26/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
VH1 is bringing back the classic game show Hollywood Squares for a rebooted version titled Celebrity Squares, hosted by actor and comedian DC Young Fly. The new version with a modern twist on the classic format will focus on Black pop culture trivia, and comes with a new name according to Deadline, who broke the story. From Jesse Collins Entertainment and Kevin Hart‘s Hartbeat, Celebrity Squares takes elements of the former favorite and presents them in a new and exciting way for an updated audience. The series will bring together cultural icons for “20 fun and spontaneous half-hour episodes.” Among the celebrity guests set to feature are Babyface, Bobby Brown, Tiffany Haddish, Kirk Franklin, Bresha Webb, Luenell, Taye Diggs, and many more. The show is set to debut on VH1 beginning Tuesday, October 17 at 8/7c. Celebrity Squares brings two contestants together to play Tic-Tac-Toe, as they work to collect cash and prizes along the way.
- 9/25/2023
- TV Insider
Daytime drama actor, Andrea Evans, has died at the age of 66.
The actress, who rose to soap opera fame in the ’70s and ’80s thanks to her role as Tina Lord on the ABC series “One Life To Live”, passed away on Sunday from cancer.
Evans’ death was announced by casting director, Don Carroll.
The Aurora, Illinois-native starred as Tina until 1981 when she left to take on the role of Patty Williams on CBS’ “The Young and the Restless” from 1983 to 1984. Then, in 1985, she returned to “One Life” and was later nominated for a Daytime Emmy in 1988.
Evans went on to play Tawny Moore on CBS’ “The Bold and the Beautiful”, Rebecca Hotchkiss on NBC’s “Passions” and Patty Walker on Amazon Prime’s “The Bay”.
Read More: Brett Hadley, ‘The Young And The Restless’ Star, Dead At 92
Early in her career, she performed in beauty pageants and regional theatre...
The actress, who rose to soap opera fame in the ’70s and ’80s thanks to her role as Tina Lord on the ABC series “One Life To Live”, passed away on Sunday from cancer.
Evans’ death was announced by casting director, Don Carroll.
The Aurora, Illinois-native starred as Tina until 1981 when she left to take on the role of Patty Williams on CBS’ “The Young and the Restless” from 1983 to 1984. Then, in 1985, she returned to “One Life” and was later nominated for a Daytime Emmy in 1988.
Evans went on to play Tawny Moore on CBS’ “The Bold and the Beautiful”, Rebecca Hotchkiss on NBC’s “Passions” and Patty Walker on Amazon Prime’s “The Bay”.
Read More: Brett Hadley, ‘The Young And The Restless’ Star, Dead At 92
Early in her career, she performed in beauty pageants and regional theatre...
- 7/10/2023
- by Melissa Romualdi
- ET Canada
Andrea Evans, the popular soap opera star known for her turns as Tina Lord on ABC’s One Life to Live and Rebecca Hotchkiss on NBC/DirecTV’s Passions, has died. She was 66.
Evans died Sunday at her home in Pasadena after a battle with breast cancer, casting director Don Carroll told The Hollywood Reporter.
Evans came to fame by playing Tina — People magazine nicknamed her “Daytime’s Diva of Dirt” — on One Life to Live from 1979-81 and from 1985-90. However, she had to abruptly quit the soap after a stalker accosted her in the lobby of the show’s Manhattan studio in 1987 and later sent her death threats, some of them written in blood.
The fear “forever changed me. There’s no way it could not,” she told People in 2008.
Evans returned to the world of daytime as Tawny Moore on CBS’ The Bold and the Beautiful in...
Evans died Sunday at her home in Pasadena after a battle with breast cancer, casting director Don Carroll told The Hollywood Reporter.
Evans came to fame by playing Tina — People magazine nicknamed her “Daytime’s Diva of Dirt” — on One Life to Live from 1979-81 and from 1985-90. However, she had to abruptly quit the soap after a stalker accosted her in the lobby of the show’s Manhattan studio in 1987 and later sent her death threats, some of them written in blood.
The fear “forever changed me. There’s no way it could not,” she told People in 2008.
Evans returned to the world of daytime as Tawny Moore on CBS’ The Bold and the Beautiful in...
- 7/10/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It’s all fun and games until the Emmys start handing out awards. Then the real competition begins.
This year, the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards will present its first statue for outstanding game show. Previously, game shows were honored during the Daytime Emmys, where “Jeopardy” has claimed 11 of the last 20 years of awards.
But in 2021, the New York-based National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, which handles the Daytime Emmys, and the L.A.-based Television Academy, which handles the Primetime Emmys, decided to bring game shows into the primetime heat.
It’s not a shock considering a slew of rebooted classic games and wild new competitions have led to a resurgence in the genre. Coupled with the seemingly endless search for a new “Jeopardy” host that consumed the nation, game shows are all the rage again.
When confirming the category inclusion last August, the TV Academy broadly revealed what it takes to qualify,...
This year, the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards will present its first statue for outstanding game show. Previously, game shows were honored during the Daytime Emmys, where “Jeopardy” has claimed 11 of the last 20 years of awards.
But in 2021, the New York-based National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, which handles the Daytime Emmys, and the L.A.-based Television Academy, which handles the Primetime Emmys, decided to bring game shows into the primetime heat.
It’s not a shock considering a slew of rebooted classic games and wild new competitions have led to a resurgence in the genre. Coupled with the seemingly endless search for a new “Jeopardy” host that consumed the nation, game shows are all the rage again.
When confirming the category inclusion last August, the TV Academy broadly revealed what it takes to qualify,...
- 6/20/2023
- by Hunter Ingram
- Variety Film + TV
Whoopi Goldberg has her eyes on a new gig.
The actress and “The View” host threw her hat in as the next host of “Wheel of Fortune” on the latest episode of the daytime talk show, after longtime host Pat Sajak announced his retirement after 41 seasons.
Read More: Whoopi Goldberg Gives Sunny Hostin A Lap Dance On ‘The View’
While discussing the news of his retirement on the show, Alyssa Farah Griffin brought up the topic of replacing the host to their guest, “Jeopardy!” host Ken Jennings.
Goldberg was enthusiastic, however, and cut in with her answer.
“I want that job! I think it’d be lots of fun,” she shared, via People.
The other hosts loved the idea and offered to join as well with Joy Behar suggesting she take over for co-host Vanna White, so she could take “turns walking back and forth, pointing to the letters” with Sara Haines.
The actress and “The View” host threw her hat in as the next host of “Wheel of Fortune” on the latest episode of the daytime talk show, after longtime host Pat Sajak announced his retirement after 41 seasons.
Read More: Whoopi Goldberg Gives Sunny Hostin A Lap Dance On ‘The View’
While discussing the news of his retirement on the show, Alyssa Farah Griffin brought up the topic of replacing the host to their guest, “Jeopardy!” host Ken Jennings.
Goldberg was enthusiastic, however, and cut in with her answer.
“I want that job! I think it’d be lots of fun,” she shared, via People.
The other hosts loved the idea and offered to join as well with Joy Behar suggesting she take over for co-host Vanna White, so she could take “turns walking back and forth, pointing to the letters” with Sara Haines.
- 6/13/2023
- by Anita Tai
- ET Canada
In the 1950s daytime programming became extremely popular, with game shows and soap operas becoming a staple in American households. Although the Emmy Awards had been established in 1949, the categories were limited for the first few years, and performers from all genres, and from both daytime and nighttime programs, were lumped together in one or two acting categories, with daytime performers usually left out.
In 1962 Mary Stuart became the only soap opera actress nominated for a Primetime Emmy, for her role as Joanne Gardner on “Search for Tomorrow.” In 1968 a category for Best Achievement in Daytime Programming was attempted, but judges decided that no one was deserving. Outraged pioneers of the genre, such as writer Agnes Nixon and “General Hospital” star John Beradino, lobbied for recognition of daytime television. In 1972 the first Emmy Awards specifically honoring daytime programming were bestowed to “The Doctors” for Best Daytime Drama and to Mary Fickett...
In 1962 Mary Stuart became the only soap opera actress nominated for a Primetime Emmy, for her role as Joanne Gardner on “Search for Tomorrow.” In 1968 a category for Best Achievement in Daytime Programming was attempted, but judges decided that no one was deserving. Outraged pioneers of the genre, such as writer Agnes Nixon and “General Hospital” star John Beradino, lobbied for recognition of daytime television. In 1972 the first Emmy Awards specifically honoring daytime programming were bestowed to “The Doctors” for Best Daytime Drama and to Mary Fickett...
- 4/29/2023
- by Susan Pennington
- Gold Derby
Scott Satin, veteran television producer who recently worked on the comedy game show “Funny You Should Ask,” died on Thursday after a long battle with the neurogenerative disorder Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, according to a statement from Allen Media Group. He was 64 years old.
Satin began his TV producing career in the late 1980s with the PBS children’s TV series “Square One Television” and “Mathnet,” the latter being an educational parody of the ’60s police procedural “Dragnet.”
In the ’90s, Satin expanded to daytime TV with the Tom Bergeron-hosted revival of “Hollywood Squares,” “The Byron Allen Show” and “The Keenan Wayans Show.”
Also Read:
Howard Bragman, Veteran Hollywood Publicist and LGBTQ Activist, Dies at 66
Satin then made another genre shift to reality TV in the 2000s, producing shows like “Who Wants to Marry My Dad” and “Meet My Folks” for NBC, along with the Stan Lee-hosted “Who Wants to Be a Superhero?...
Satin began his TV producing career in the late 1980s with the PBS children’s TV series “Square One Television” and “Mathnet,” the latter being an educational parody of the ’60s police procedural “Dragnet.”
In the ’90s, Satin expanded to daytime TV with the Tom Bergeron-hosted revival of “Hollywood Squares,” “The Byron Allen Show” and “The Keenan Wayans Show.”
Also Read:
Howard Bragman, Veteran Hollywood Publicist and LGBTQ Activist, Dies at 66
Satin then made another genre shift to reality TV in the 2000s, producing shows like “Who Wants to Marry My Dad” and “Meet My Folks” for NBC, along with the Stan Lee-hosted “Who Wants to Be a Superhero?...
- 2/12/2023
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
Scott Satin, a television producer with credits on “Funny You Should Ask” and “Most Outrageous Moments,” died Thursday after a years-long battle with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). He was 64 years old.
Satin created the NBC clip show “Most Outrageous Moments.” Narrated by John Cramer, the series ran for four seasons from 2005 to 2009.
In more recent years, Satin partnered with Byron Allen on the comedy series “The First Family” and “Mr. Box Office,” on which he served as both writer and executive producer. Satin also earned credits on “World’s Funniest Weather” and “Funny You Should Ask,” which remains in syndication with over 200 episodes.
Satin first collaborated with Allen on “The Byron Allen Show” in the 1990s. After beginning his career with “Square One Television” and “Mathnet,” Satin rounded into form with his work with Allen, along with credits on programs such as “Hollywood Squares,” “Big Deal,” “The Keenan Ivory Wayans...
Satin created the NBC clip show “Most Outrageous Moments.” Narrated by John Cramer, the series ran for four seasons from 2005 to 2009.
In more recent years, Satin partnered with Byron Allen on the comedy series “The First Family” and “Mr. Box Office,” on which he served as both writer and executive producer. Satin also earned credits on “World’s Funniest Weather” and “Funny You Should Ask,” which remains in syndication with over 200 episodes.
Satin first collaborated with Allen on “The Byron Allen Show” in the 1990s. After beginning his career with “Square One Television” and “Mathnet,” Satin rounded into form with his work with Allen, along with credits on programs such as “Hollywood Squares,” “Big Deal,” “The Keenan Ivory Wayans...
- 2/12/2023
- by J. Kim Murphy
- Variety Film + TV
Beloved comedian Gilbert Gottfried, who died Tuesday, was as well known for his edgy and irreverent comedy routines as he was for lending his distinctive voice to family films like “Aladdin.” Some would call his humor tasteless, others wildly offensive but that was just the way his mind worked, the comedian said in “The Aristocrats” documentary.
His most famous joke was undoubtedly the Aristocrats, and his priceless rendition of the joke was included in documentary of the same name in which 100 comedians told the same filthy tale. He didn’t write the joke, but his version, which he first told after bombing a 9/11 joke at Hugh Hefner’s roast, is known as one of the “grossest and most wide-reaching” renditions, wrote Vulture.
Here are some of the funniest and filthiest routines from Gottfried’s career.
Hollywood Squares
His appearance on the “Hollywood Squares” gameshow, since it was on broadcast TV,...
His most famous joke was undoubtedly the Aristocrats, and his priceless rendition of the joke was included in documentary of the same name in which 100 comedians told the same filthy tale. He didn’t write the joke, but his version, which he first told after bombing a 9/11 joke at Hugh Hefner’s roast, is known as one of the “grossest and most wide-reaching” renditions, wrote Vulture.
Here are some of the funniest and filthiest routines from Gottfried’s career.
Hollywood Squares
His appearance on the “Hollywood Squares” gameshow, since it was on broadcast TV,...
- 4/12/2022
- by Pat Saperstein and Meredith Woerner
- Variety Film + TV
Gilbert Gottfried, the comedian, “Aladdin” star and owner of the most recognizable voice in Hollywood, has died after battling a long illness, his family announced Tuesday. He was 67.
His publicist told the Washington Post that he died of myotonic dystrophy type 2, a form of muscular dystrophy.
“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved Gilbert Gottfried after a long illness. In addition to being the most iconic voice in comedy, Gilbert was a wonderful husband, brother, friend and father to his two young children. Although today is a sad day for all of us, please keep laughing as loud as possible in Gilbert’s honor,” his family wrote on Twitter.
Many people in Hollywood, including comedians Jason Alexander, Dane Cook and more, paid tribute to Gottfried after the shocking news of his death. “Gilbert Gottfried was never not funny,” wrote Cook. “He was a lovely guy, always friendly and made many people happy.
His publicist told the Washington Post that he died of myotonic dystrophy type 2, a form of muscular dystrophy.
“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved Gilbert Gottfried after a long illness. In addition to being the most iconic voice in comedy, Gilbert was a wonderful husband, brother, friend and father to his two young children. Although today is a sad day for all of us, please keep laughing as loud as possible in Gilbert’s honor,” his family wrote on Twitter.
Many people in Hollywood, including comedians Jason Alexander, Dane Cook and more, paid tribute to Gottfried after the shocking news of his death. “Gilbert Gottfried was never not funny,” wrote Cook. “He was a lovely guy, always friendly and made many people happy.
- 4/12/2022
- by Jordan Moreau
- Variety Film + TV
Scoey Mitchell, the actor best known for his work on the one-season run of the sitcom “Barefoot in the Park,” died on March 19 in Torrance, Calif., his brother, Billy Mitchell, confirmed to Variety. He was 92.
In a Facebook post Monday, Mitchell’s brother wrote, “He sacrificed much in the struggle to get Blacks behind the camera, into production and into positions that are taken for granted today. It’s important to remember those few that opened up the doors for so many.”
Born as Roscoe Mitchell Jr. on March 12, 1930, in New York, he began his career as a stand-up comedian in nightclubs. One of his first jobs was on “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour” in 1967, which was followed by dozens of comedic television appearances, including on “The Ed Sullivan Show,” “The Tonight Show” and “The Carol Burnett Show.” Before making the switch to acting, Mitchell had a spot on the...
In a Facebook post Monday, Mitchell’s brother wrote, “He sacrificed much in the struggle to get Blacks behind the camera, into production and into positions that are taken for granted today. It’s important to remember those few that opened up the doors for so many.”
Born as Roscoe Mitchell Jr. on March 12, 1930, in New York, he began his career as a stand-up comedian in nightclubs. One of his first jobs was on “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour” in 1967, which was followed by dozens of comedic television appearances, including on “The Ed Sullivan Show,” “The Tonight Show” and “The Carol Burnett Show.” Before making the switch to acting, Mitchell had a spot on the...
- 3/24/2022
- by Sasha Urban
- Variety Film + TV
"I have so many things I want to tell you..." Screen Media Films has unveiled an official trailer for a comedy called Family Squares, which is a fun name riffing on the classic "Hollywood Squares" TV game show. It's also a reference to this being a Zoom collective film, featuring segments shot remotely by each of the actors. It's a story inspired by director Stephanie Laing's own mother's passing in 2019, eventually made during the pandemic. The film is about a family matriarch, Grandma Mabel, who passes away suddenly but in her last days tries to bring her dysfunctional family together. Digitally. The ensemble cast includes June Squibb, with Ann Dowd, Judy Greer, Billy Magnussen, Casey Wilson, Henry Winkler, Sam Richardson, Margo Martindale, Timothy Simons, Zoe Chao, Scott MacArthur, Elsie Fisher, Jessica Miesel, and Maclaren Laing. Narration by Rob Reiner. Of course it's rated R only for the language. It doesn't look so bad,...
- 2/8/2022
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Sometimes, game shows are at their best when things don’t go according to plan.
James Holzhauer lost his 33rd game of “Jeopardy!” after wagering an uncharacteristically modest $1,399 in his final “Final Jeopardy” round on June 3. He was expected to beat Ken Jennings’ all-time highest winnings record of $2.5 million that day, but lost in a shocking turn of events to opponent Emma Boettcher. Holzhauer, a professional gambler, explained why he bet so low, telling The Action Network, “I knew I could only win if Emma missed Final Jeopardy, as there was no way she wouldn’t bet to cover my all-in bet. So my only concern was getting overtaken by third place, and I bet just enough to make sure of locking him out.”
Bob Barker Is a True Professional, Exhibit A: The host dealt with a dopey “Price Is Right” contestant who prematurely reveals the correct answer.
It’s...
James Holzhauer lost his 33rd game of “Jeopardy!” after wagering an uncharacteristically modest $1,399 in his final “Final Jeopardy” round on June 3. He was expected to beat Ken Jennings’ all-time highest winnings record of $2.5 million that day, but lost in a shocking turn of events to opponent Emma Boettcher. Holzhauer, a professional gambler, explained why he bet so low, telling The Action Network, “I knew I could only win if Emma missed Final Jeopardy, as there was no way she wouldn’t bet to cover my all-in bet. So my only concern was getting overtaken by third place, and I bet just enough to make sure of locking him out.”
Bob Barker Is a True Professional, Exhibit A: The host dealt with a dopey “Price Is Right” contestant who prematurely reveals the correct answer.
It’s...
- 6/18/2021
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
It seems as though the past few years have brought a resurgence of game shows, which were once a staple of both daytime and primetime television viewing. As a kid, I relished snow days and sick days when I could miss school and curl up on the sofa to watch all my favorites – “Pyramid,” “Family Feud” and “Password” were just a few. Every day after school I rushed through my homework so that I’d have time to watch “Tattletales” and “Tic Tac Dough.”
Game shows go all the way back to the days of radio, with one such program becoming the first game show to air on broadcast television – “Truth or Consequences” debuted on July 1, 1941, and before long the genre became a popular form of entertainment. All “Big Three” networks carried a variety of game shows on both daytime and primetime schedules until their popularity began to fizzle in the ’80s and ’90s.
Game shows go all the way back to the days of radio, with one such program becoming the first game show to air on broadcast television – “Truth or Consequences” debuted on July 1, 1941, and before long the genre became a popular form of entertainment. All “Big Three” networks carried a variety of game shows on both daytime and primetime schedules until their popularity began to fizzle in the ’80s and ’90s.
- 2/17/2021
- by Susan Pennington and Chris Beachum
- Gold Derby
Betty White turns 99 today, a life milestone that few people ever reach, let alone performers who are still in the public eye.
In September, White reflected on her 70 years in television in an interview with Variety.
She knew the medium was here to stay when she saw the impact of her first TV series, “Hollywood on Television.” In the early 1950s, she spent five hours a day on live TV, talking about the day’s headlines, interviewing guests, spinning records and doing commercials alongside popular L.A. deejay Al Jarvis.
“I think once people got used to entertainment coming right into their living rooms…Well, there we were, and we weren’t going anywhere,” White observed.
Earlier this month, White offered her observations on living nearly a century in an interview with People magazine.
“I am blessed with good health, so turning 99 is no different than turning 98,” White said. Another...
In September, White reflected on her 70 years in television in an interview with Variety.
She knew the medium was here to stay when she saw the impact of her first TV series, “Hollywood on Television.” In the early 1950s, she spent five hours a day on live TV, talking about the day’s headlines, interviewing guests, spinning records and doing commercials alongside popular L.A. deejay Al Jarvis.
“I think once people got used to entertainment coming right into their living rooms…Well, there we were, and we weren’t going anywhere,” White observed.
Earlier this month, White offered her observations on living nearly a century in an interview with People magazine.
“I am blessed with good health, so turning 99 is no different than turning 98,” White said. Another...
- 1/17/2021
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Veteran TV actress Abby Dalton, who co-starred on the ’80s primetime soap Falcon Crest, has died at the age of 88, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Dalton passed away on Nov. 23 in Los Angeles following a long illness, her family said in a statement.
Dalton was a television staple in the 1960s: She played nurse Martha Hale on CBS’ Hennesey, starring opposite Jackie Cooper and earning an Emmy nomination for the role in 1961, and also played Rat Packer Joey Bishop’s wife on his self-titled NBC sitcom. Plus, she made frequent appearances through the years on game shows like Hollywood Squares,...
Dalton was a television staple in the 1960s: She played nurse Martha Hale on CBS’ Hennesey, starring opposite Jackie Cooper and earning an Emmy nomination for the role in 1961, and also played Rat Packer Joey Bishop’s wife on his self-titled NBC sitcom. Plus, she made frequent appearances through the years on game shows like Hollywood Squares,...
- 11/30/2020
- by Dave Nemetz
- TVLine.com
Abby Dalton, an Emmy-nominated actress known for her early roles on such series as comedy-drama Hennessey and The Joey Bishop Show who reenergized her career in the 1980s as a star of the primetime hit soap Falcon Crest, died November 23 in Los Angeles following a long illness. She was 88.
Her death was announced by her spokesperson Sue Procko.
Born in Las Vegas, Dalton began her acting career with writer-producer Roger Corman in 1957, debuting in the beatnik film Rock All Night. During the next few years, she appeared in numerous Corman films including Teenage Doll, Carnival Rock, Stakeout on Dope Street and more.
Dalton landed a role in 1959 on Jackie Cooper’s Hennesey series, playing Cooper’s girlfriend on the comedy-drama set at a naval hospital. The role earned her an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in 1961.
In 1962, she was cast a Joey Bishop’s wife on The Joey Bishop Show.
Her death was announced by her spokesperson Sue Procko.
Born in Las Vegas, Dalton began her acting career with writer-producer Roger Corman in 1957, debuting in the beatnik film Rock All Night. During the next few years, she appeared in numerous Corman films including Teenage Doll, Carnival Rock, Stakeout on Dope Street and more.
Dalton landed a role in 1959 on Jackie Cooper’s Hennesey series, playing Cooper’s girlfriend on the comedy-drama set at a naval hospital. The role earned her an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in 1961.
In 1962, she was cast a Joey Bishop’s wife on The Joey Bishop Show.
- 11/30/2020
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Norm Crosby, the Borscht Belt comedian who was known for his frequent malapropisms, died Saturday in Los Angeles. He was 93.
His wife told the Hollywood Reporter he died of heart failure. Crosby was a frequent talkshow guest, first appearing on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” in 1964 and going on to guest more than 50 times.
His specialty was malaprops — words that sound correct but are completely wrong.
“He might describe a major league ballclub struggling with controversy as ‘riddled with distinction.’ When he goes to a tailor, it’s because his pants need ‘an altercation,’ When people can’t read or write, you get a problem with ‘illegitimacy.,'” the Los Angeles Times wrote about him.
His many other talkshow appearances included “The Ed Sullivan Show,” “It’s Garry Shandling’s Show” and “Late Night With Conan O’Brien.” A guest star on several series, his appearances included “Roseanne,” “The Love Boat,...
His wife told the Hollywood Reporter he died of heart failure. Crosby was a frequent talkshow guest, first appearing on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” in 1964 and going on to guest more than 50 times.
His specialty was malaprops — words that sound correct but are completely wrong.
“He might describe a major league ballclub struggling with controversy as ‘riddled with distinction.’ When he goes to a tailor, it’s because his pants need ‘an altercation,’ When people can’t read or write, you get a problem with ‘illegitimacy.,'” the Los Angeles Times wrote about him.
His many other talkshow appearances included “The Ed Sullivan Show,” “It’s Garry Shandling’s Show” and “Late Night With Conan O’Brien.” A guest star on several series, his appearances included “Roseanne,” “The Love Boat,...
- 11/8/2020
- by Pat Saperstein
- Variety Film + TV
A series based on “Fried Green Tomatoes” is in the works at NBC, with Reba McEntire attached to star and with Norman Lear executive producing, Variety has learned exclusively.
The hour-long drama project is described as a modernization of the novel and movie that explores the lives of descendants from the original work. When present-day Idgie Threadgoode (McEntire) returns to Whistle Stop after a decade away, she must wrestle with a changed town, estranged daughter, faltering cafe and life-changing secret.
McEntire will executive produce in addition to starring, with Jennifer Cecil attached to write and executive produce. Lear, who was an executive producer on the “Fried Green Tomatoes” film, and his producing partner Brent Miller will executive produce under their Act III Productions banner. Fannie Flagg, author of the original novel and co-writer of the film’s screenplay, will also executive produce. Universal Television will serve as the studio.
The...
The hour-long drama project is described as a modernization of the novel and movie that explores the lives of descendants from the original work. When present-day Idgie Threadgoode (McEntire) returns to Whistle Stop after a decade away, she must wrestle with a changed town, estranged daughter, faltering cafe and life-changing secret.
McEntire will executive produce in addition to starring, with Jennifer Cecil attached to write and executive produce. Lear, who was an executive producer on the “Fried Green Tomatoes” film, and his producing partner Brent Miller will executive produce under their Act III Productions banner. Fannie Flagg, author of the original novel and co-writer of the film’s screenplay, will also executive produce. Universal Television will serve as the studio.
The...
- 10/14/2020
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Tom Kennedy, a longtime game show host, died this past week at the age of 93, according to a social media post by close friend Steve Beverly.
Born Jim Narz in Louisville, Kentucky, Kennedy got his start in broadcasting via a radio job while study at the University of Missouri. After a decade in radio and a marriage to his college sweetheart Betty Gevedon, he moved to Hollywood and decided to follow in his brother Jack’s footsteps in television. To distinguish himself from his brother, he changed his name to Tom Kennedy and got his start as a game show host in 1958 with the short-lived NBC game show, “The Big Game.”
After several years of jumping from one show to the next, Kennedy got his big break in 1963 with the NBC show “You Don’t Say!,” a “Password”-esque show where contestants try to get a celebrity guest to identify...
Born Jim Narz in Louisville, Kentucky, Kennedy got his start in broadcasting via a radio job while study at the University of Missouri. After a decade in radio and a marriage to his college sweetheart Betty Gevedon, he moved to Hollywood and decided to follow in his brother Jack’s footsteps in television. To distinguish himself from his brother, he changed his name to Tom Kennedy and got his start as a game show host in 1958 with the short-lived NBC game show, “The Big Game.”
After several years of jumping from one show to the next, Kennedy got his big break in 1963 with the NBC show “You Don’t Say!,” a “Password”-esque show where contestants try to get a celebrity guest to identify...
- 10/11/2020
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
Veteran TV game show host Tom Kennedy, who emceed the likes of Name That Tune and Split Second, died on Oct. 7 at the age of 93, according to a friend, Steve Beverly. The cause of death is unknown, though Beverly shared on Facebook that Kennedy “had not been well in recent months.”
Born Jim Narz, Kennedy broke into the business with 1958’s The Big Game and Dr. I.Q., which aired throughout the 1958-59 season. His first major success was NBC’s You Don’t Say!, which ran from 1963 to 1969; the series was later revived by ABC six years later. In...
Born Jim Narz, Kennedy broke into the business with 1958’s The Big Game and Dr. I.Q., which aired throughout the 1958-59 season. His first major success was NBC’s You Don’t Say!, which ran from 1963 to 1969; the series was later revived by ABC six years later. In...
- 10/11/2020
- by Nick Caruso
- TVLine.com
For more than 10 years, Tom Bergeron has been one of the most famous faces in TV hosting. Over the years, he has hosted several popular game and competition shows such as Hollywood Squares and America’s Funniest Home Videos. At this point in his career, most people will recognize him as the co-host of Dancing with the Stars, a position he held from 2005 until recently when the show announced that he and Erin Andrews would no longer be hosting the show. Tom hasn’t announced his next move yet, but there’s no doubt he’ll bounce back and be back in
10 Things You Didn’t Know about Tom Bergeron...
10 Things You Didn’t Know about Tom Bergeron...
- 8/15/2020
- by Camille Moore
- TVovermind.com
If anyone has the talent to pull off playing Paul Lynde, the campy queer icon beloved for “Bewitched” and “Hollywood Squares,” it’s Billy Eichner, one of the most prominent out gay comedians in the business. Eichner has just been tapped to star as Lynde in “Man in the Box,” a biopic based on the actor’s life on the screen. While Lynde was never officially “out,” his sexuality was well-known in front of and behind the camera throughout a run on television beginning in the ’50s up until his death in 1982.
The project was first reported by Deadline, to whom Eichner gave a wide-ranging interview about the struggles for out and closeted gay actors in Hollywood, and how he hopes to de-stigmatize major roles for queer stars with the Lynde film.
“There’s some overlap, between Paul and I, in that we both had our breakthrough in the industry,...
The project was first reported by Deadline, to whom Eichner gave a wide-ranging interview about the struggles for out and closeted gay actors in Hollywood, and how he hopes to de-stigmatize major roles for queer stars with the Lynde film.
“There’s some overlap, between Paul and I, in that we both had our breakthrough in the industry,...
- 7/21/2020
- by Ryan Lattanzio
- Indiewire
Exclusive: Actor-comedian Billy Eichner and producer Tom McNulty are developing Man in the Box, a biopic based on the life of groundbreaking TV icon Paul Lynde. Eichner plans to star. They’ve optioned a script by Edwin Cannistraci, and Eichner and McNulty are currently meeting with creatives to round out the rest of the production team.
After his breakout turn in Bye Bye Birdie, Lynde became a big TV star with his guest turns as Uncle Arthur on Bewitched, and in his role on the long-running game show Hollywood Squares. While Lynde was never publicly “out,” he never lied about his sexuality either, as most famous gay actors of that era did. His unique comic persona often and overtly nodded to his “barely-closeted” lifestyle in a way that still feels groundbreaking for his time. But he was not on the same lists for roles as straight actors. One of the...
After his breakout turn in Bye Bye Birdie, Lynde became a big TV star with his guest turns as Uncle Arthur on Bewitched, and in his role on the long-running game show Hollywood Squares. While Lynde was never publicly “out,” he never lied about his sexuality either, as most famous gay actors of that era did. His unique comic persona often and overtly nodded to his “barely-closeted” lifestyle in a way that still feels groundbreaking for his time. But he was not on the same lists for roles as straight actors. One of the...
- 7/21/2020
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Dancing With the Stars is parting ways with longtime host Tom Bergeron, who says he will not return to the ABC competition series for Season 29.
“Just informed @DancingABC will be continuing without me,” Bergeron announced on Twitter late Monday afternoon. “It’s been an incredible 15 year run and the most unexpected gift of my career. I’m grateful for that and for the lifelong friendships made. That said, now what am I supposed to do with all of these glitter masks?”
More from TVLineDWTS Shake-Up: Erin Andrews Follows Tom Bergeron Out the Door as ABC Takes Show in 'New Creative...
“Just informed @DancingABC will be continuing without me,” Bergeron announced on Twitter late Monday afternoon. “It’s been an incredible 15 year run and the most unexpected gift of my career. I’m grateful for that and for the lifelong friendships made. That said, now what am I supposed to do with all of these glitter masks?”
More from TVLineDWTS Shake-Up: Erin Andrews Follows Tom Bergeron Out the Door as ABC Takes Show in 'New Creative...
- 7/14/2020
- by Vlada Gelman
- TVLine.com
Alan Zweibel clearly knows funny. He’s accrued multiple Emmy wins and nominations for his time on the comedy writing teams of “Saturday Night Live” and “It’s Garry Shandling’s Show,” the latter of which he co-created, plus writing credits on several hit films, books, theater works and comedy/variety specials for mega-talents such as Paul Simon, Gilda Radner, Billy Crystal and Steve Martin.
In his book “Laugh Lines: My Life Helping Funny People Be Funnier” (Abrams Press), which was published April 14, Zweibel’s life lessons, tricks of the trade and insights on how to chart the path from your brain to someone’s laugh center are all revealed. Don’t be deceived: Zweibel makes it sound easy, but that’s after nearly 50 years toiling at funny bone tickling. He was first in the pages of Variety in 1973, when one of his jokes for Borscht Belt comic Freddie Roman got quoted in a review.
In his book “Laugh Lines: My Life Helping Funny People Be Funnier” (Abrams Press), which was published April 14, Zweibel’s life lessons, tricks of the trade and insights on how to chart the path from your brain to someone’s laugh center are all revealed. Don’t be deceived: Zweibel makes it sound easy, but that’s after nearly 50 years toiling at funny bone tickling. He was first in the pages of Variety in 1973, when one of his jokes for Borscht Belt comic Freddie Roman got quoted in a review.
- 5/28/2020
- by Steven Gaydos
- Variety Film + TV
Season 3 of “The Masked “Singer” has already seen four of the 18 contestants sent home: three from Group A and one from Group B (the Elephant who was Tony Hawk.)
Hawk was the first of the six celebrities competing in Group B to lose the audience vote. The remaining five contenders — Banana, Elephant, Frog, Kitty, Mouse and Taco — competed in the fifth episode, which aired on Wednesday, February 26. One of them will be eliminated at the end of the show while the other four will continue on in the competition in coming weeks.
Keep reading as we’ve got “The Masked Singer” spoilers for all of them, including our best guess as to the real identity of the Taco.
See ‘The Masked Singer’ spoilers: The Banana is …
Before he performed, we had the idea that the Taco was NBA all-star LeBron James. He currently plays for the Los Angeles Lakers, which would make tapings possible.
Hawk was the first of the six celebrities competing in Group B to lose the audience vote. The remaining five contenders — Banana, Elephant, Frog, Kitty, Mouse and Taco — competed in the fifth episode, which aired on Wednesday, February 26. One of them will be eliminated at the end of the show while the other four will continue on in the competition in coming weeks.
Keep reading as we’ve got “The Masked Singer” spoilers for all of them, including our best guess as to the real identity of the Taco.
See ‘The Masked Singer’ spoilers: The Banana is …
Before he performed, we had the idea that the Taco was NBA all-star LeBron James. He currently plays for the Los Angeles Lakers, which would make tapings possible.
- 2/26/2020
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
Philip McKeon, the former child actor who played young Tommy Hyatt on the 1976-1985 CBS sitcom Alice, died today in Texas after a long illness. The elder brother of Facts of Life actress Nancy McKeon was 55.
His death was announced by family spokesman Jeff Ballard.
“We are all beyond heartbroken and devastated over Phil’s passing,” Ballard said in a statement. “His wonderful sense of humor, kindness and loyalty will be remembered by all who crossed his path in life.”
McKeon would go on to appear in such TV series as The Love Boat, Amazing Stories and Favorite Son but is best known for his first role as the precocious son of the title character in Alice. Linda Lavin starried as a recently widowed mother who relocates with her son from New Jersey to Phoenix and makes ends meet as a waitress while trying to launch a singing career. The...
His death was announced by family spokesman Jeff Ballard.
“We are all beyond heartbroken and devastated over Phil’s passing,” Ballard said in a statement. “His wonderful sense of humor, kindness and loyalty will be remembered by all who crossed his path in life.”
McKeon would go on to appear in such TV series as The Love Boat, Amazing Stories and Favorite Son but is best known for his first role as the precocious son of the title character in Alice. Linda Lavin starried as a recently widowed mother who relocates with her son from New Jersey to Phoenix and makes ends meet as a waitress while trying to launch a singing career. The...
- 12/10/2019
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Rip Taylor, the animated comedian who always left behind a trail of confetti, died Sunday, The New York Times reports. He was 84.
Taylor’s publicist, Harlan Böll, confirmed Taylor’s death, saying the comedian suffered a seizure before he died at a Los Angeles hospital. An exact cause of death, however, was not given.
Taylor built a long, eclectic career with a mixture of over-the-top and self-deprecating humor. He was a frequent TV guest — Böll estimated he made more than 2,000 appearances during his 50-year career — as well as a hard-working stand-up comedian and entertainer.
Taylor’s publicist, Harlan Böll, confirmed Taylor’s death, saying the comedian suffered a seizure before he died at a Los Angeles hospital. An exact cause of death, however, was not given.
Taylor built a long, eclectic career with a mixture of over-the-top and self-deprecating humor. He was a frequent TV guest — Böll estimated he made more than 2,000 appearances during his 50-year career — as well as a hard-working stand-up comedian and entertainer.
- 10/7/2019
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
Comedian Rip Taylor, whose myriad TV credits include dozens of appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson and The Mike Douglas Show, died on Sunday at the age of 84.
Taylor was the self-proclaimed “King of Confetti.” He was known for dousing his audience with colorful streamers at all of his performances.
More from TVLineWho Is A Million Little Things' Mystery Man? Jason Ritter Weighs InThe Conners Sneak Peek: Watch Dan 'Rescue' Katey Sagal's Louise9-1-1 Sneak Peek: Buck's Search for Christopher Takes a Devastating Turn
He racked up over 2,000 (!) small-screen credits over a career that spanned six decades.
Taylor was the self-proclaimed “King of Confetti.” He was known for dousing his audience with colorful streamers at all of his performances.
More from TVLineWho Is A Million Little Things' Mystery Man? Jason Ritter Weighs InThe Conners Sneak Peek: Watch Dan 'Rescue' Katey Sagal's Louise9-1-1 Sneak Peek: Buck's Search for Christopher Takes a Devastating Turn
He racked up over 2,000 (!) small-screen credits over a career that spanned six decades.
- 10/6/2019
- TVLine.com
Rip Taylor, the flamboyant confetti-throwing comedian who was the host of “The $1.98 Beauty Show,” died at his Beverly Hills home on Sunday at the age of 84, according to his publicist.
Taylor was known for his over-the-top comic delivery and his penchant for excitedly throwing confetti to celebrate a game show contestant’s victory, something he regularly did during his appearances on “Match Game,” “Hollywood Squares,” “Super Password” and “The Gong Show.” Prior to his appearances on game shows and late night shows like “The Tonight Show,” Taylor served as an opening act for stars like Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr. and Judy Garland.
Also Read: Ginger Baker, Legendary Drummer With Band Cream, Dies at 80
But it was his appearance “The Gong Show” that earned him his biggest claim to fame. Impressed by his jokes as a judge, the show’s host and creator Chuck Barris offered Taylor a job as host of “The $1.98 Beauty Show.
Taylor was known for his over-the-top comic delivery and his penchant for excitedly throwing confetti to celebrate a game show contestant’s victory, something he regularly did during his appearances on “Match Game,” “Hollywood Squares,” “Super Password” and “The Gong Show.” Prior to his appearances on game shows and late night shows like “The Tonight Show,” Taylor served as an opening act for stars like Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr. and Judy Garland.
Also Read: Ginger Baker, Legendary Drummer With Band Cream, Dies at 80
But it was his appearance “The Gong Show” that earned him his biggest claim to fame. Impressed by his jokes as a judge, the show’s host and creator Chuck Barris offered Taylor a job as host of “The $1.98 Beauty Show.
- 10/6/2019
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
Ed Asner, eight time Emmy-winning actor affectionately known as Lou Grant and Up’s Carl Fredricksen, is turning 90 years old and is still as crotchety, funny and beloved as ever.
Cloris Leachman, Mark Hamill (Star Wars franchise), Lily Tomlin and Brad Garrett are coming out to honor and roast the legendary actor at the Ed Asner 90th Birthday Party on November 3, 2019 at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. The evening will benefit the new Ed Asner Family Center, dedicated to promoting mental health and enrichment programs to special needs children and their families. Additional roasters and talent will be announced shortly.
In addition to the roast, the headline attractions of the evening will be a special set by music legend Nancy Sinatra and by Steve Lukather of Toto. Hosting the event will be Tom Bergeron. The Ed Asner 90th Birthday Bash will also offer a “Fund-a-Mission” and a silent and live auction...
Cloris Leachman, Mark Hamill (Star Wars franchise), Lily Tomlin and Brad Garrett are coming out to honor and roast the legendary actor at the Ed Asner 90th Birthday Party on November 3, 2019 at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. The evening will benefit the new Ed Asner Family Center, dedicated to promoting mental health and enrichment programs to special needs children and their families. Additional roasters and talent will be announced shortly.
In addition to the roast, the headline attractions of the evening will be a special set by music legend Nancy Sinatra and by Steve Lukather of Toto. Hosting the event will be Tom Bergeron. The Ed Asner 90th Birthday Bash will also offer a “Fund-a-Mission” and a silent and live auction...
- 9/17/2019
- Look to the Stars
Harry Friedman, the record breaking game show producer, has decided to step down from his executive producer role on “Wheel of Fortune” and “Jeopardy!” after his contract expires in 2020.
The decision brings to an end a 25-year career for Friedman at Sony Pictures Television, which produces the two shows. Over the course of his five decades in the industry, Friedman has produced more than 6,270 hours of game shows and has become the most decorated game show producer in history with 14 Emmys to his name.
“I think all of you know how much I love these shows, and that I deeply respect how hard you’ve worked to make them so successful,” Friedman said when he made the announcement to his team on the “Jeopardy!” set. “We’ve celebrated a lot of milestones together, and now with my own personal 25th anniversary milestone just a few months away, it felt like...
The decision brings to an end a 25-year career for Friedman at Sony Pictures Television, which produces the two shows. Over the course of his five decades in the industry, Friedman has produced more than 6,270 hours of game shows and has become the most decorated game show producer in history with 14 Emmys to his name.
“I think all of you know how much I love these shows, and that I deeply respect how hard you’ve worked to make them so successful,” Friedman said when he made the announcement to his team on the “Jeopardy!” set. “We’ve celebrated a lot of milestones together, and now with my own personal 25th anniversary milestone just a few months away, it felt like...
- 8/1/2019
- by Will Thorne
- Variety Film + TV
An undisclosed number of employees were laid off Wednesday at Viacom’s Cmt cabler as part of the integration of the Nashville-based operation with the MTV group headed by Chris McCarthy.
Among the senior executives leaving the cabler in the restructuring are marketing chief Anthony Barton and Nashville office head Suzanne Norman. Most of the pinkslips went to employees working in marketing and functions that will be absorbed largely by existing staffers in the group that encompasses MTV, VH1, Logo and Cmt. Nina Diaz, group president of programming and development, will oversee programming for the cabler once known as the Nashville Network.
McCarthy’s plans for revitalizing Cmt include boosting the channel’s focus on the culture and personalities in Nashville, with programming and live events that reflect the spirit of the country music Mecca. Earlier this week the cabler ordered the game show “Nashville Squares,” a Music City spin on the “Hollywood Squares” format.
Among the senior executives leaving the cabler in the restructuring are marketing chief Anthony Barton and Nashville office head Suzanne Norman. Most of the pinkslips went to employees working in marketing and functions that will be absorbed largely by existing staffers in the group that encompasses MTV, VH1, Logo and Cmt. Nina Diaz, group president of programming and development, will oversee programming for the cabler once known as the Nashville Network.
McCarthy’s plans for revitalizing Cmt include boosting the channel’s focus on the culture and personalities in Nashville, with programming and live events that reflect the spirit of the country music Mecca. Earlier this week the cabler ordered the game show “Nashville Squares,” a Music City spin on the “Hollywood Squares” format.
- 3/13/2019
- by Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Cmt has ordered new game show “Nashville Squares,” which is a spinoff of VH1’s “Hip Hop Squares,” TheWrap has learned exclusively. Both are essentially music star-centric remakes of the old “Hollywood Squares.”
The former Country Music Television has greenlit 10 episodes of its new game show. “Nashville Squares,” which is a working title, is slated for summer.
“Nashville Squares” hails from Jesse Collins Entertainment, the same production company behind “Hip Hop Squares” (pictured below). On both shows, contestants rely on celebrity help to win money playing a giant tic-tac-toe game.
VH1
VH1
Also Read: 'Wife Swap' Revival Moves From Cmt to Paramount Network Ahead of Premiere
As evidenced by this order and other recent moves, Cmt is really leaning into the whole Nashville, Tennessee scene. The Viacom-owned cable channel is doubling down on music, and fans of that strategy can expect more content — including tentpole series — to be announced in the coming weeks.
The former Country Music Television has greenlit 10 episodes of its new game show. “Nashville Squares,” which is a working title, is slated for summer.
“Nashville Squares” hails from Jesse Collins Entertainment, the same production company behind “Hip Hop Squares” (pictured below). On both shows, contestants rely on celebrity help to win money playing a giant tic-tac-toe game.
VH1
VH1
Also Read: 'Wife Swap' Revival Moves From Cmt to Paramount Network Ahead of Premiere
As evidenced by this order and other recent moves, Cmt is really leaning into the whole Nashville, Tennessee scene. The Viacom-owned cable channel is doubling down on music, and fans of that strategy can expect more content — including tentpole series — to be announced in the coming weeks.
- 3/11/2019
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
Carol Channing, a Broadway legend who was known for her signature lead role in Hello, Dolly! and continued performing well into her 90s, has died of natural causes at her home in Rancho Mirage, CA. She was 97.
B Harlan Boll, Channing’s publicist, confirmed the news to multiple news outlets. “It is with extreme heartache that I have to announce the passing of an original Industry Pioneer, Legend and Icon – Miss Carol Channing,” Boll said in a statement to Broadway World. “I admired her before I met her, and have loved her since the day she stepped … or fell, rather … into my life.”
A native of Seattle, Channing’s distinctively gravelly enunciation, lanky, energetic frame and carefree laugh marked her many decades in show business. Along with her remarkable 4,500 performances in the title role of Hello, Dolly!, she appeared in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, The Vamp and Lorelei. On movie screens,...
B Harlan Boll, Channing’s publicist, confirmed the news to multiple news outlets. “It is with extreme heartache that I have to announce the passing of an original Industry Pioneer, Legend and Icon – Miss Carol Channing,” Boll said in a statement to Broadway World. “I admired her before I met her, and have loved her since the day she stepped … or fell, rather … into my life.”
A native of Seattle, Channing’s distinctively gravelly enunciation, lanky, energetic frame and carefree laugh marked her many decades in show business. Along with her remarkable 4,500 performances in the title role of Hello, Dolly!, she appeared in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, The Vamp and Lorelei. On movie screens,...
- 1/15/2019
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
Bob Einstein, a two-time Emmy winner who has recurred on HBO’s Curb Your Enthusiasm since its launch and created the wacky Super Dave Osborne character, died today in Indian Wells, CA. He was 76 and recently had been diagnosed with cancer.
Best known to today’s viewers for playing the serious, often surly but always hilarious Marty Funkhouser on Curb, Einstein was a foil for its creator-star Larry David. He appeared in nearly two dozen episodes of the series dating from 2004 to the most recent season.
Einstein’s younger brother, actor-director Albert Brooks, tweeted today, “R.I.P. My dear brother Bob Einstein. A great brother, father and husband. A brilliantly funny man. You will be missed forever.”
A comedian’s comedian, Einstein first made his name as a writer. His career dates to the 1960s, when he won his first Emmy as part of the writing team for The...
Best known to today’s viewers for playing the serious, often surly but always hilarious Marty Funkhouser on Curb, Einstein was a foil for its creator-star Larry David. He appeared in nearly two dozen episodes of the series dating from 2004 to the most recent season.
Einstein’s younger brother, actor-director Albert Brooks, tweeted today, “R.I.P. My dear brother Bob Einstein. A great brother, father and husband. A brilliantly funny man. You will be missed forever.”
A comedian’s comedian, Einstein first made his name as a writer. His career dates to the 1960s, when he won his first Emmy as part of the writing team for The...
- 1/2/2019
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
Every year, the Oscars, Emmys and Grammys must choose which notable performers and creators to memorialize in their In Memoriam segments, and the three organizations will have many talented entertainers to remember at 2019’s ceremonies.
The past year saw the loss of celebrated stars of the big screen, such “Smokey and the Bandit” star Burt Reynolds, who died Sept. 6. Reynolds, who was 82, earned an Oscar nom for “Boogie Nights” and also appeared on television in “Evening Shade.”
Among the other notable movie performers lost this year were “Superman” and “Smallville” actress Margot Kidder, who died May 13; “The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter” star Sondra Locke, who was also a film director and died Nov. 3; and Susan Anspach, who starred in “Five Easy Pieces” and “Blume in Love” and died April 2.
Several stars known for their work in the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s passed away in 2018, including Dorothy Malone, who starred...
The past year saw the loss of celebrated stars of the big screen, such “Smokey and the Bandit” star Burt Reynolds, who died Sept. 6. Reynolds, who was 82, earned an Oscar nom for “Boogie Nights” and also appeared on television in “Evening Shade.”
Among the other notable movie performers lost this year were “Superman” and “Smallville” actress Margot Kidder, who died May 13; “The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter” star Sondra Locke, who was also a film director and died Nov. 3; and Susan Anspach, who starred in “Five Easy Pieces” and “Blume in Love” and died April 2.
Several stars known for their work in the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s passed away in 2018, including Dorothy Malone, who starred...
- 12/24/2018
- by Pat Saperstein
- Variety Film + TV
MTV Studios is reviving another classic MTV series, Celebrity Deathmatch. The recently launched studio is developing a reimagined version of the cult-favorite claymation stop-motion satire that skewered celebrities, politicians and everyone in between during its famed original 1998-2002 run. Ice Cube is attached to star and will executive produce alongside his partner Jeff Kwatinetz through his Cube Vision production company. Series creator Eric Fogel will return to executive produce as well, with additional showrunners and talent to be named shortly.
The all-new Celebrity Deathmatch will be shopped as a weekly series to premium and streaming networks in 2019. The show is the first step in a plan for reinventing the franchise across consumer products, gaming, theatrical and more.
MTV in June announced the creation of MTV Studios with exploiting library IP as a main goal and an initial slate that included a reimagining of MTV’s animated comedy Daria, an update...
The all-new Celebrity Deathmatch will be shopped as a weekly series to premium and streaming networks in 2019. The show is the first step in a plan for reinventing the franchise across consumer products, gaming, theatrical and more.
MTV in June announced the creation of MTV Studios with exploiting library IP as a main goal and an initial slate that included a reimagining of MTV’s animated comedy Daria, an update...
- 12/5/2018
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Willie Tyler (right) gained fame in the '80s with his impressive ventriloquist skills -- alongside his comedic counterpart Lester (left) -- on shows like "American Bandstand," "ABC Weekend Specials," "Match Game" and "Hollywood Squares." Guess what they look like now!
- 11/30/2018
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Everyone knows TV veteran Tom Bergeron as the beloved host of shows like America's Funniest Home Videos, Hollywood Squares, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, and Dancing With the Stars. But did you know the 63-year-old is also an actor? In fact, in a new interview, Tom opened up about his showbiz career and candidly revealed that he'd like to do less hosting and more acting in the future. "I've said publicly that I've been hosting things for over 35 years or whatever and I see Dancing With the Stars as the last thing I'll host. But I do want to flex those different muscles — those acting muscles — which I have done occasionally, but not often," he recently told People. View this post on Instagram In honor of Week One of the NFL season, Writer-Director @bensheltonfilms and I are calling an audible; “The Messenger” is Online Now at Tombergeron.com A...
- 9/24/2018
- by Julia Birkinbine
- Closer Weekly
Many worthy people are still waiting and waiting for their induction into the Television Academy’s TV Hall of Fame. Each year a small committee makes the selection of just a few people to be inducted. You can visit their busts, statues and tributes at their plaza in North Hollywood, California. Our photo gallery above offers up 50 individuals who easily deserve to be include, so please take a look at these choices, esteemed committee members, and let’s induct even more this year.
The first induction was held in 1984 and it’s been an annual tradition almost every year. That class of legends consisted of actress/executive Lucille Ball, actor/comedian Milton Berle, writer Paddy Chayefsky, writer/producer Norman Lear, journalist Edward R. Murrow, CBS founder William S. Paley, and NBC founder David Sarnoff.
The most recent class from late 2017 featured the inductions of production designer Roy Christopher, producer/writer Shonda Rhimes,...
The first induction was held in 1984 and it’s been an annual tradition almost every year. That class of legends consisted of actress/executive Lucille Ball, actor/comedian Milton Berle, writer Paddy Chayefsky, writer/producer Norman Lear, journalist Edward R. Murrow, CBS founder William S. Paley, and NBC founder David Sarnoff.
The most recent class from late 2017 featured the inductions of production designer Roy Christopher, producer/writer Shonda Rhimes,...
- 8/29/2018
- by Chris Beachum
- Gold Derby
TV Reboots aren't going anywhere. Last season saw the re-arrival of Will & Grace and Roseanne, while this year's new addition is Last Man Standing. But then there are the true reboots (taking show concepts and bringing them back with updated premises and new casts), like Hawaii 5-0, MacGyver, and S.W.A.T., and this year's Magnum, P.I. and Charmed. Now comes word that one of the most beloved sitcoms from the 1960s — and one that is still enjoying life in reruns — is being given another shot at life, Bewitched. (Photo Credit: Getty Images) The premise of the show is that on her wedding night, Samantha Stevens (Elizabeth Montgomery) reveals to her new husband, Darrin (Dick York), that she is, in fact a witch. Initially feeling betrayed, Darrin ultimately realizes that he loves her deeply and they try to settle down into a normal domestic life. Fat chance! From 1964-72, Samantha promised not to use witchcraft,...
- 8/24/2018
- by Ed Gross
- Closer Weekly
Robin Leach, best known for hosting the hit TV series “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous,” died on Friday morning in Las Vegas, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal. He was 76.
The journalist had reportedly been hospitalized since Nov. 21 following a stroke.
“Sad to report the death of famed celeb reporter, friend and colleague #RobinLeach @ 1:50 a.m. in #LasVegas,” tweeted John Katsilometes, a columnist for the Las Vegas Review-Journal, where Leach worked. “He would have been 77 Wednesday. He suffered a second stroke Monday. He in hospice care. He’d been hospitalized since Nov. 21, after suffering a stroke in Cabo San Lucas.”
Sad to report the death of famed celeb reporter, friend and colleague #RobinLeach @ 1:50 a.m. in #LasVegas. He would have been 77 Wednesday. He suffered a second stroke Monday. He in hospice care. He'd been hospitalized since Nov. 21, after suffering a stroke in Cabo San Lucas.
— John Katsilometes...
The journalist had reportedly been hospitalized since Nov. 21 following a stroke.
“Sad to report the death of famed celeb reporter, friend and colleague #RobinLeach @ 1:50 a.m. in #LasVegas,” tweeted John Katsilometes, a columnist for the Las Vegas Review-Journal, where Leach worked. “He would have been 77 Wednesday. He suffered a second stroke Monday. He in hospice care. He’d been hospitalized since Nov. 21, after suffering a stroke in Cabo San Lucas.”
Sad to report the death of famed celeb reporter, friend and colleague #RobinLeach @ 1:50 a.m. in #LasVegas. He would have been 77 Wednesday. He suffered a second stroke Monday. He in hospice care. He'd been hospitalized since Nov. 21, after suffering a stroke in Cabo San Lucas.
— John Katsilometes...
- 8/24/2018
- by Maane Khatchatourian and Cynthia Littleton
- Variety Film + TV
Charlotte Rae, best known as the lovable house mother Mrs. Edna Garrett on the ’80s sitcom “The Facts of Life,” has died following a battle with cancer. She was 92.
Last April, Rae announced she had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer seven years earlier, saying in a statement at the time it was “a miracle that they found it because usually, it’s too late. My mother, sister, and my uncle died of pancreatic cancer.”
After six months of chemotherapy, she said she was cancer-free. But in 2017, doctors found cancer in her bones.
Also Read: 'Facts of Life' Star Charlotte Rae Diagnosed With Bone Cancer
“I lost my hair, but I had beautiful wigs. Nobody ever knew. So now, at the age of 91, I have to make up my mind,” she wrote. “I’m not in any pain right now. I’m feeling so terrific and so glad to be above ground.
Last April, Rae announced she had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer seven years earlier, saying in a statement at the time it was “a miracle that they found it because usually, it’s too late. My mother, sister, and my uncle died of pancreatic cancer.”
After six months of chemotherapy, she said she was cancer-free. But in 2017, doctors found cancer in her bones.
Also Read: 'Facts of Life' Star Charlotte Rae Diagnosed With Bone Cancer
“I lost my hair, but I had beautiful wigs. Nobody ever knew. So now, at the age of 91, I have to make up my mind,” she wrote. “I’m not in any pain right now. I’m feeling so terrific and so glad to be above ground.
- 8/6/2018
- by Rosemary Rossi
- The Wrap
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