Whoopi Goldberg is gearing up to release her new book, Bits and Pieces: My Mother, My Brother, and Me. The highly-anticipated future NY Times best-seller will reveal some dark stories from The View host’s past, including a nearly fatal cocaine addiction.
Since the 1980’s, Whoopi Goldberg has appeared in hundreds of TV shows and movies. The iconic actress became a household name when she starred in Star Trek, Ghost, Sister Act, and more hit 90’s movies.
Bits And Pieces – My Mother, My Brother, And Me Hits Shelves
Whoopi transitioned to cameos and hosting gigs in the 90’s when she began appearing on the hit show Hollywood Squares, hosted by Tom Bergeron.
After winning countless awards and nominations, Whoopi Goldberg began appearing on The View in 2007 when she replaced Rosie O’Donnell.
After nearly two decades on the View, Goldberg has been very transparent with the audience and is never shy...
Since the 1980’s, Whoopi Goldberg has appeared in hundreds of TV shows and movies. The iconic actress became a household name when she starred in Star Trek, Ghost, Sister Act, and more hit 90’s movies.
Bits And Pieces – My Mother, My Brother, And Me Hits Shelves
Whoopi transitioned to cameos and hosting gigs in the 90’s when she began appearing on the hit show Hollywood Squares, hosted by Tom Bergeron.
After winning countless awards and nominations, Whoopi Goldberg began appearing on The View in 2007 when she replaced Rosie O’Donnell.
After nearly two decades on the View, Goldberg has been very transparent with the audience and is never shy...
- 5/9/2024
- by Amanda Austin
- Celebrating The Soaps
////////Below, you'll find a list of CBS recent/current/upcoming primetime TV shows and their current status. To see a series' ratings, click the links in the middle column (where applicable).
Shows include 48 Hours, 60 Minutes, The Amazing Race, Big Brother, Big Brother Reindeer Games, Blue Bloods, Bob ♥ Abishola, Buddy Games, Cold Shoulder, Come Dance with Me, CSI: Vegas, East New York, Elsbeth, The Equalizer, FBI, FBI: International, FBI: Most Wanted, Fire Country, For Heaven’s Sake, Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage, Ghosts, The Greatest #AtHome Videos, Guilty Party, The Harper House, Hollywood Squares, House Calls with Dr. Phil, Interrogation, Kids Say the Darndest Things, The Lincoln Lawyer, Lingo, Lotería Loca, Love Island, Matlock, NCIS, NCIS: Hawaii, NCIS: Los Angeles, NCIS: Origins, NCIS: Sydney, NCIS: The Cases They Can't Forget, The Neighborhood, The Never Game, Raid the Cage, The Real CSI: Miami,The Real Love Boat, Secret Celebrity Renovation, Seal...
Shows include 48 Hours, 60 Minutes, The Amazing Race, Big Brother, Big Brother Reindeer Games, Blue Bloods, Bob ♥ Abishola, Buddy Games, Cold Shoulder, Come Dance with Me, CSI: Vegas, East New York, Elsbeth, The Equalizer, FBI, FBI: International, FBI: Most Wanted, Fire Country, For Heaven’s Sake, Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage, Ghosts, The Greatest #AtHome Videos, Guilty Party, The Harper House, Hollywood Squares, House Calls with Dr. Phil, Interrogation, Kids Say the Darndest Things, The Lincoln Lawyer, Lingo, Lotería Loca, Love Island, Matlock, NCIS, NCIS: Hawaii, NCIS: Los Angeles, NCIS: Origins, NCIS: Sydney, NCIS: The Cases They Can't Forget, The Neighborhood, The Never Game, Raid the Cage, The Real CSI: Miami,The Real Love Boat, Secret Celebrity Renovation, Seal...
- 5/8/2024
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
CBS today announced its 2024-2025 primetime programming lineup of CBS Originals, featuring three new dramas, two new comedies, a new alternative series, a reimagined classic game show, special event programming, and 18 returning series.
New drama series for fall include NCIS: Origins, starring Austin Stowell as a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs and narrated by flagship NCIS series star Mark Harmon, and Matlock, a reimagining of the classic television series, starring Emmy and Academy Award winner Kathy Bates as a brilliant, wily lawyer with unusual and unexpected tactics.
The midseason lineup will introduce Watson, starring Morris Chestnut as a modern version of one of history’s greatest detectives solving medical mysteries.
The new multi-camera comedies for fall are Poppa’s House, starring Damon Wayans as happily divorced “Poppa” who finds himself still parenting his adult son, Damon Wayans Jr, and Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage, the sequel to Young Sheldon, following Georgie (Montana Jordan...
New drama series for fall include NCIS: Origins, starring Austin Stowell as a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs and narrated by flagship NCIS series star Mark Harmon, and Matlock, a reimagining of the classic television series, starring Emmy and Academy Award winner Kathy Bates as a brilliant, wily lawyer with unusual and unexpected tactics.
The midseason lineup will introduce Watson, starring Morris Chestnut as a modern version of one of history’s greatest detectives solving medical mysteries.
The new multi-camera comedies for fall are Poppa’s House, starring Damon Wayans as happily divorced “Poppa” who finds himself still parenting his adult son, Damon Wayans Jr, and Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage, the sequel to Young Sheldon, following Georgie (Montana Jordan...
- 5/2/2024
- by Mirko Parlevliet
- Vital Thrills
Who imagined it would feel so good to receive news about the upcoming fall schedule?
CBS is the first network to announce its plans for the 2024-25 season, and it’s brimming with good stuff.
The lineup features three new dramas, two new comedies, a new alternative series, a reimagined classic game show, special event programming, and 18 returning series. Wow!
Most of this is news we’ve already shared, but there are also some surprises.
Let’s get the full scope of what CBS just announced.
New drama series for fall include NCIS: Origins, starring Austin Stowell as a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs and narrated by flagship NCIS series star Mark Harmon; and Matlock, a reimagining of the classic television series, starring Emmy and Academy Award winner Kathy Bates as a brilliant, wily lawyer with unusual and unexpected tactics.
Midseason will introduce Watson, starring Morris Chestnut as a modern version...
CBS is the first network to announce its plans for the 2024-25 season, and it’s brimming with good stuff.
The lineup features three new dramas, two new comedies, a new alternative series, a reimagined classic game show, special event programming, and 18 returning series. Wow!
Most of this is news we’ve already shared, but there are also some surprises.
Let’s get the full scope of what CBS just announced.
New drama series for fall include NCIS: Origins, starring Austin Stowell as a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs and narrated by flagship NCIS series star Mark Harmon; and Matlock, a reimagining of the classic television series, starring Emmy and Academy Award winner Kathy Bates as a brilliant, wily lawyer with unusual and unexpected tactics.
Midseason will introduce Watson, starring Morris Chestnut as a modern version...
- 5/2/2024
- by Carissa Pavlica
- TVfanatic
CBS on Thursday became the first broadcast network to unveil its schedule for the Fall TV season. What shows are on the move, where did new ones land, and what’s on hold until midseason?
♦ Tracker, TV’s most-watched show, will now air Sundays at 8/7c, leading into Season 5 of The Equalizer. Morris Chestnut medical drama Watson will be held for spring, once the NFL season is over, and launch Sundays at 10 pm.
More from TVLineCast of Cancelled NCIS: Hawai'i Gathers at Sunset to Celebrate OhanaNBC Fall Schedule: Reba McEntire Kicks Off 2nd Comedy Block, Found and The Irrational...
♦ Tracker, TV’s most-watched show, will now air Sundays at 8/7c, leading into Season 5 of The Equalizer. Morris Chestnut medical drama Watson will be held for spring, once the NFL season is over, and launch Sundays at 10 pm.
More from TVLineCast of Cancelled NCIS: Hawai'i Gathers at Sunset to Celebrate OhanaNBC Fall Schedule: Reba McEntire Kicks Off 2nd Comedy Block, Found and The Irrational...
- 5/2/2024
- by Ryan Schwartz
- TVLine.com
CBS announced not only its fall schedule, but a full lineup for the 2024-2025 broadcast season at a Los Angeles press briefing on Thursday.
As “Young Sheldon” is currently wrapping up its final season on Thursdays at 8 p.m., a headline of the slate is spinoff series “Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage” taking over that spot, leading into “Ghosts” at 8:30 p.m. Additionally, “Tracker” — not only the No. 1 new series of the 2023-2024 season, but the most-watched series overall — is getting an earlier position, moving from Sundays at 9 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Several CBS traditions remain intact. Tuesdays remain “FBI” night with the flagship series airing at 8 p.m. followed by “FBI: International” at 9 p.m. and “FBI: Most Wanted” at 10 p.m. On Mondays, “NCIS” holds onto its 9 p.m. timeslot, and after the cancellation of “NCIS: Hawai’i,” it’s 9:30 p.m. position will be taken...
As “Young Sheldon” is currently wrapping up its final season on Thursdays at 8 p.m., a headline of the slate is spinoff series “Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage” taking over that spot, leading into “Ghosts” at 8:30 p.m. Additionally, “Tracker” — not only the No. 1 new series of the 2023-2024 season, but the most-watched series overall — is getting an earlier position, moving from Sundays at 9 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Several CBS traditions remain intact. Tuesdays remain “FBI” night with the flagship series airing at 8 p.m. followed by “FBI: International” at 9 p.m. and “FBI: Most Wanted” at 10 p.m. On Mondays, “NCIS” holds onto its 9 p.m. timeslot, and after the cancellation of “NCIS: Hawai’i,” it’s 9:30 p.m. position will be taken...
- 5/2/2024
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
Drew Barrymore will serve as the centerpiece of an updated version of “Hollywood Squares,” which CBS has picked up to air in January. The Eye network announced the reimagined “Hollywood Squares,” with Barrymore as the center square, on Thursday as it unveiled its schedule for the 2024-2025 TV season. CBS Entertainment president Amy Reisenbach and CBS president/CEO George Cheeks revealed the news at a news conference with reporters.
The gamer will run on Wednesdays at 10 p.m. Et starting in January, paired with “The Price is Right at Night” at 8 p.m. and a new season of “Raid the Cage,” hosted by Damon Wayans, Jr. and co-host Jeannie Mai, at 9 p.m. The three shows will air during a midseason break for CBS’ regular Wednesday schedule of “Survivor” and “The Summit” (fall) and “The Amazing Race” (spring).
Jesse Collins (for Jesse Collins Entertainment) and Barrymore (via her Flower Films...
The gamer will run on Wednesdays at 10 p.m. Et starting in January, paired with “The Price is Right at Night” at 8 p.m. and a new season of “Raid the Cage,” hosted by Damon Wayans, Jr. and co-host Jeannie Mai, at 9 p.m. The three shows will air during a midseason break for CBS’ regular Wednesday schedule of “Survivor” and “The Summit” (fall) and “The Amazing Race” (spring).
Jesse Collins (for Jesse Collins Entertainment) and Barrymore (via her Flower Films...
- 5/2/2024
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
CBS is bringing back Hollywood Squares.
The network announced Thursday that the reboot of the classic game show will launch in January, kicking off the midseason broadcast schedule.
Drew Barrymore is set to be the famed “center square” answering questions for the contestants.
Hollywood Squares involves two contestants who play tic-tac-toe to win money and prizes. The “board” for the game is a vertical stack of open-faced cubes, each occupied by a celebrity seated at a desk and facing the contestants. The celebrities are asked questions and the contestants judge the legitimacy of their answers to win the game.
Hollywood Squares is produced by Jesse Collins for Jesse Collins Entertainment and Drew Barrymore and Flower Films.
The original show aired on NBC in the 1960s. The series piloted in 1965 and debuted in its entirety on the same network in 1966.
The network announced Thursday that the reboot of the classic game show will launch in January, kicking off the midseason broadcast schedule.
Drew Barrymore is set to be the famed “center square” answering questions for the contestants.
Hollywood Squares involves two contestants who play tic-tac-toe to win money and prizes. The “board” for the game is a vertical stack of open-faced cubes, each occupied by a celebrity seated at a desk and facing the contestants. The celebrities are asked questions and the contestants judge the legitimacy of their answers to win the game.
Hollywood Squares is produced by Jesse Collins for Jesse Collins Entertainment and Drew Barrymore and Flower Films.
The original show aired on NBC in the 1960s. The series piloted in 1965 and debuted in its entirety on the same network in 1966.
- 5/2/2024
- by Katie Campione
- Deadline Film + TV
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
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