R.I.P Alex Trebek
July 4th, 2021 at 11:01:30 AM
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Bill Cosby’s now available.
Sanitized for Your Protection
July 17th, 2021 at 12:40:34 PM
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George Stephanopoulos has completed his time as Jeopardy! host to mixed reviews. Some felt he was "calming", "professional", with "good pacing" and a host who carefully read the clues. Others felt he needed to clear his throat and take a cough drop since his voice was ragged and distracting. With his political past, many viewers opted out for the week, and although he's stated he'll take the permanent host job if offered, the producers (and therefore punters) will have to consider the political baggage he'd bring to the podium.
In other Jeopardy! news...
In other Jeopardy! news...
The show tweeted an apology for a clue on the 6/21/21 show. I think it's a cleverly written clue but, in this day and age, obviously not.
In the 7/12/21 episode (shown in it's entirety above), almost an entire category is used to promote the PlayStation 5 and its games. The PS5 is built by Sony who also just happens to produce the Jeopardy! TV show. Here is an edited recap of the category...
On the 7/15/21 show, a rare inaccurate clue was delivered. Here's the Yahoo! News version...
Quote: Yahoo Entertainment
“Percival Lowell thought he saw these on the surface of Venus -- some think it was a reflection of the blood vessels in his eye,” Guest-host George Stephanopoulos said, reading the clue.
Defending champion Tyler Vandenberg, a marine from Washington DC, buzzed in to say, “what are canals?” It was deemed correct, he was awarded $1600, and the show moved on. But as it turns out, Lowell is actually well known in history books for discovering, and writing a lot about, the possibility of canals on Mars. And, as was accurately pointed out on Twitter, what he saw on Venus he described as “spokes,” which many believe he actually mistook his own eye for.
So while the clue was technically correct, the answer should have been “spokes.”
Have you tried 22 tonight? I said 22.
July 25th, 2021 at 6:35:28 PM
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Robin Roberts has completed her week as Jeopardy! host to mostly positive reviews. Fans thought her "cheerful", "smart" and "professional". They also seemed to enjoy the outfits she wore. Others were less impressed by her wardrobe, "This is not a fashion show. Robin does not have a clear enough voice. She is hard to hear or understand," observed one fan.
She also seemed to be nervous. Strange, considering she makes her living in front of the cameras. Still, there were the usual calls that she immediately be made permanent host.
Next up is the long awaited week of LeVar Burton.
She also seemed to be nervous. Strange, considering she makes her living in front of the cameras. Still, there were the usual calls that she immediately be made permanent host.
Next up is the long awaited week of LeVar Burton.
Have you tried 22 tonight? I said 22.
July 28th, 2021 at 1:06:51 PM
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I saw LeVar Burton's second day as host. He seemed fine. I was into the competition and wasn't thinking about Burton most of the time, which is a good thing for a moderator.
I did notice he tended to respond with "we were looking for…" or a restrained "yes!!".
He really shined in the international jobs category, when he had to speak several non-English words.
I correctly guessed the Final Jeopardy question because my mythical creature ken is limited, and was all I could think of. I should have picked up on "helio."
I did notice he tended to respond with "we were looking for…" or a restrained "yes!!".
He really shined in the international jobs category, when he had to speak several non-English words.
I correctly guessed the Final Jeopardy question because my mythical creature ken is limited, and
phoenix
July 31st, 2021 at 9:05:04 PM
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LeVar Burton has finished his week as Jeopardy! host. It's hard to fairly judge how fans feel about his performance. Of all the guest hosts, he's the most outspoken in his desire to get the permanent job. And, unlike most of the other hosts, he has a large fan base (many of whom are Star Trek fanatics) who are happy to flood social media with positive reviews.
At any rate, viewers described him as "positive" and "energetic". He also looks the part having aged into a wise sage appearance. Others, however, found his voice to be "grating". His first night was a poor performance. Regular Jeopardy! viewers seem resentful that his fans were declaring him the best host before he even began his week.
Perhaps his biggest criticism isn't actually a criticism but a trend that's been developing as this season progressed: Earlier hosts seem to have an advantage over later hosts. A typical comment for the last few weeks has been that the current host is fine but Host X appeared more knowledgeable, Host Y had a better smile, Host Z had a better wardrobe et al, and any of those three would be a better choice.
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In other Jeopardy! news...
At any rate, viewers described him as "positive" and "energetic". He also looks the part having aged into a wise sage appearance. Others, however, found his voice to be "grating". His first night was a poor performance. Regular Jeopardy! viewers seem resentful that his fans were declaring him the best host before he even began his week.
Perhaps his biggest criticism isn't actually a criticism but a trend that's been developing as this season progressed: Earlier hosts seem to have an advantage over later hosts. A typical comment for the last few weeks has been that the current host is fine but Host X appeared more knowledgeable, Host Y had a better smile, Host Z had a better wardrobe et al, and any of those three would be a better choice.
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In other Jeopardy! news...
The Wall Street Journal ran a story speculating that the guest host idea may backfire. The story argues that the guest hosts are dividing the community into factions. While one faction might champion a particular host, another faction will throw its support for another. Both will then claim that all the other hosts are a travesty to Trebek's memory and threaten to stop watching if their favorite is not selected. Ah well, no one thought replacing Trebek would be easy.
Full story at WSJ (but behind a paywall).
Full story at WSJ (but behind a paywall).
If you haven't heard, Monday's show (posted above) also featured a new record for "lowest Jeopardy! score of all time". Patrick Pearce, a product specialist from Fountain View, California, broke the record previously held by Stephanie Hull since March 2015. Pearce scored -$7,400, overtaking Hull’s -$6,800.
Fans had a laugh but were mostly sympathetic. One Reddit user wrote...
Fans had a laugh but were mostly sympathetic. One Reddit user wrote...
Quote:Patrick just manifested my worst nightmare. Finally get on the show, board isn’t to your strengths, get behind early, panic buzz, snowball, big RED. I feel for him.
Have you tried 22 tonight? I said 22.
August 6th, 2021 at 10:46:22 PM
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Wow, lots of Jeopardy news this week. Let's start with the host...
David Faber has completed his week of hosting to overwhelmingly positive reviews. So overwhelming in fact that I can't find any bad comments about him. Viewers found him “smooth", "professional”, "confident", "well spoken" and "most personable like Alex". In addition to the usual calls to make immediately make him permanent host, he has quickly found his way onto (at the very least) most fan's short list.
The only negative for the CNBC financial host seems to be that few people have ever heard of him.
Like other hosts, Faber has a Jeopardy! connection having participating in and winning the 2012 Power Players Tournament. You might start thinking that Faber is a possible Cinderella story, coming to the game late and winning the prize. It seems, however, that's not the case (see news below).
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In other Jeopardy! news...
Rumors are spreading like wild fire that Jeopardy! executive producer Mike Richards has been selected as permanent host and is already in advanced contract negotiations with Sony. If true, it wouldn't be too surprising. Richards, who guest hosted after Ken Jennings, was one of the fan favorites during this most unusual season. (It’s also rumored that Bialik and Cohen were among the standouts who had also been strongly considered for the permanent job.)
But hold the phone...
Outraged LeVar Burton fans are flooding social media with their anger over their guy not getting the gig and are vowing to never watch the show again. (See "Unintended Host Consequences" in previous post). This Burton storm is something the show could no doubt weather, unfortunately an older problem (from 10 years ago) has resurfaced.
Needless to say that, in this day and age, firing a prize model for getting pregnant and insulting pregnant women in general has (when piled on top of the Burton fanatics) dialed the outrage meter up to 11. It's assumed that Sony's sudden silence on the subject means they're rethinking the situation.
David Faber has completed his week of hosting to overwhelmingly positive reviews. So overwhelming in fact that I can't find any bad comments about him. Viewers found him “smooth", "professional”, "confident", "well spoken" and "most personable like Alex". In addition to the usual calls to make immediately make him permanent host, he has quickly found his way onto (at the very least) most fan's short list.
The only negative for the CNBC financial host seems to be that few people have ever heard of him.
Like other hosts, Faber has a Jeopardy! connection having participating in and winning the 2012 Power Players Tournament. You might start thinking that Faber is a possible Cinderella story, coming to the game late and winning the prize. It seems, however, that's not the case (see news below).
---------------------------------------------
In other Jeopardy! news...
Rumors are spreading like wild fire that Jeopardy! executive producer Mike Richards has been selected as permanent host and is already in advanced contract negotiations with Sony. If true, it wouldn't be too surprising. Richards, who guest hosted after Ken Jennings, was one of the fan favorites during this most unusual season. (It’s also rumored that Bialik and Cohen were among the standouts who had also been strongly considered for the permanent job.)
But hold the phone...
Outraged LeVar Burton fans are flooding social media with their anger over their guy not getting the gig and are vowing to never watch the show again. (See "Unintended Host Consequences" in previous post). This Burton storm is something the show could no doubt weather, unfortunately an older problem (from 10 years ago) has resurfaced.
Quote: DeadlineDuring his stint as co-executive producer/executive producer on The Price Is Right, Richards was implicated in discrimination lawsuits by former models on the show, including in a 2010 complaint by Brandi Cochran who was awarded $8.5 million in damages; after an appeal, the case was ultimately settled. A later lawsuit with another model also was settled. (While featured in both complaints, Richards was only named as a defendant in the second lawsuit. It was later removed.)
Richards has yet to comment publicly on the resurfaced allegations that include insensitive comments about pregnant women attributed to him in Cochran’s suit.
Needless to say that, in this day and age, firing a prize model for getting pregnant and insulting pregnant women in general has (when piled on top of the Burton fanatics) dialed the outrage meter up to 11. It's assumed that Sony's sudden silence on the subject means they're rethinking the situation.
Meanwhile (as the guest host gimmick becomes a three-ring circus), contestant Matt Amodio has quietly won 13 games in a row with cash earnings totaling more that $430,000. He's suddenly ranked 5th on the Jeopardy! all-time winning list. He also has taken a few top 10 spots on the single-day cash earnings list, a list where James Holzhauer owned all 10 top spots.
If you haven't seen Amondio play you should check him out. He chews up the board and leaves his opponents in the dust. He's already known for two legendary plays. One involved a late round-2 Daily Double in a tight game where he wagered a do-or-die $13,000 to take an unbeatable lead into the final round (see video above). The other was a controversial Final Jeopardy decision to bet almost his whole stack to maximize his winnings in a "can't lose" situation. The decision cost him around $15,000. (Was it greedy? Cocky? A smart play under the circumstances?)
At any rate, Amondio already has one record that will probably never be surpassed: He's the only player to ever win under three separate hosts. In fact, depending on how the future chips fall, he could increase this total to 4 or even 5 hosts. The strange days we live in eh?
If you haven't seen Amondio play you should check him out. He chews up the board and leaves his opponents in the dust. He's already known for two legendary plays. One involved a late round-2 Daily Double in a tight game where he wagered a do-or-die $13,000 to take an unbeatable lead into the final round (see video above). The other was a controversial Final Jeopardy decision to bet almost his whole stack to maximize his winnings in a "can't lose" situation. The decision cost him around $15,000. (Was it greedy? Cocky? A smart play under the circumstances?)
At any rate, Amondio already has one record that will probably never be surpassed: He's the only player to ever win under three separate hosts. In fact, depending on how the future chips fall, he could increase this total to 4 or even 5 hosts. The strange days we live in eh?
Have you tried 22 tonight? I said 22.
August 7th, 2021 at 12:08:11 PM
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I've been perusing the various news stories on Mike Richards and yeah, there's some angry people out there. I should reiterate that nothing official has been announced but, if the rumors are true, if he is indeed replacing Alex Trebek, there seems to be four main groups of thought on the subject...
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Group #1: The Faction Argument
What the...? My guy lost?! But your guy sucks! Your guy isn't worthy to even walk on the sacred ground that the great Trebek has tread upon! Oh man! I am SO out of here!!!
Group #2: The PC Argument
So, after proclaiming your support of diversity and showcasing several guest hosts from various minority groups, you decide that the best replacement for Alex Trebeck is a hetero, Caucasian male who dislikes pregnant women? ...Uh huh... I am SO out of here!
Group #3: The Fix Was In Argument
Let me get this straight... Richards is the show's producer and executive producer and therefore has a HUGE say in who Trebek's replacement will be. Then, after squeezing all the publicity he can from the parade of guest host job applicants, he not only decides that HE'S the best person for the job but is negotiating his contract before the fans have even seen (much less commented on) all the guest episodes. And the bookies won't refund my money? Whoa, I am SO out of here!
Group #4: The Pro (or at least not anti) Richards Argument
Look, when Richards guest hosted the show he was highly praised by all quarters. He's not only in the top tier of most fan's lists but came in second (behind Jennings) in the fan poll. He's been a game show host and producer making him the most experienced candidate. He's even worked with Alex Trebek himself. Okay, he might not be your first choice but he IS a very acceptable choice. What's the problem here?
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It's fair to ask what the problem is. Just as it's fair to ask if the Price is Right situation will be addressed. It's also fair to wonder how many people in the above groups are actual viewers as opposed to outsiders projecting their desires and dislikes onto Jeopardy! while the publicity spotlight shines on the show. Is this a merely a tempest in a teapot? A year from now, will Richards be mundanely hosting the show and who cares? Only time will tell. For now, as Willy Wonka might say...
The suspense is killing me. I hope it lasts.
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Group #1: The Faction Argument
What the...? My guy lost?! But your guy sucks! Your guy isn't worthy to even walk on the sacred ground that the great Trebek has tread upon! Oh man! I am SO out of here!!!
Group #2: The PC Argument
So, after proclaiming your support of diversity and showcasing several guest hosts from various minority groups, you decide that the best replacement for Alex Trebeck is a hetero, Caucasian male who dislikes pregnant women? ...Uh huh... I am SO out of here!
Group #3: The Fix Was In Argument
Let me get this straight... Richards is the show's producer and executive producer and therefore has a HUGE say in who Trebek's replacement will be. Then, after squeezing all the publicity he can from the parade of guest host job applicants, he not only decides that HE'S the best person for the job but is negotiating his contract before the fans have even seen (much less commented on) all the guest episodes. And the bookies won't refund my money? Whoa, I am SO out of here!
Group #4: The Pro (or at least not anti) Richards Argument
Look, when Richards guest hosted the show he was highly praised by all quarters. He's not only in the top tier of most fan's lists but came in second (behind Jennings) in the fan poll. He's been a game show host and producer making him the most experienced candidate. He's even worked with Alex Trebek himself. Okay, he might not be your first choice but he IS a very acceptable choice. What's the problem here?
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It's fair to ask what the problem is. Just as it's fair to ask if the Price is Right situation will be addressed. It's also fair to wonder how many people in the above groups are actual viewers as opposed to outsiders projecting their desires and dislikes onto Jeopardy! while the publicity spotlight shines on the show. Is this a merely a tempest in a teapot? A year from now, will Richards be mundanely hosting the show and who cares? Only time will tell. For now, as Willy Wonka might say...
The suspense is killing me. I hope it lasts.
Have you tried 22 tonight? I said 22.
August 9th, 2021 at 9:49:01 PM
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Some news on the Mike Richards front...
Today he released a memo in which he (not surprisingly) denies mistreating models on "The Price is Right" ten years ago. He also says that although he has been asked if he would accept the Jeopardy! host position if offered, other hosts have also been asked and are also doing preliminary contract talks. No decision has yet been made. He points out that the final decision is not his but rather the CEO of Sony has the final call.
How much of this is true, and how much is spin / damage control, is anyone's guess.
Full story at CNN.
Note that since the Richards story broke, the bookie odds for LeVar Burton have dropped from 16-1 to 11-1.
Today he released a memo in which he (not surprisingly) denies mistreating models on "The Price is Right" ten years ago. He also says that although he has been asked if he would accept the Jeopardy! host position if offered, other hosts have also been asked and are also doing preliminary contract talks. No decision has yet been made. He points out that the final decision is not his but rather the CEO of Sony has the final call.
How much of this is true, and how much is spin / damage control, is anyone's guess.
Full story at CNN.
Note that since the Richards story broke, the bookie odds for LeVar Burton have dropped from 16-1 to 11-1.
Have you tried 22 tonight? I said 22.
August 10th, 2021 at 5:32:03 AM
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David Faber gets my vote.
Happy days are here again
August 10th, 2021 at 9:01:05 AM
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Quote: HunterhillDavid Faber gets my vote.
Mine too.
At my age, a "Life In Prison" sentence is not much of a deterrent.
August 10th, 2021 at 5:31:20 PM
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I think that Jeopardy should change their rules to require contestants to pick the lowest value question still left for any given category.
The current champ is taking advantage of his comfort with the competition and buzzer by going immediately to all the high value questions at the start of each round. It deprives the show of drama.
The current champ is taking advantage of his comfort with the competition and buzzer by going immediately to all the high value questions at the start of each round. It deprives the show of drama.
So many better men, a few of them friends, are dead. And a thousand thousand slimy things live on, and so do I.
August 10th, 2021 at 5:34:48 PM
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Quote: gordonm888I think that Jeopardy should change their rules to require contestants to pick the lowest value question still left for any given category.
The current champ is taking advantage of his comfort with the competition and buzzer by going immediately to all the high value questions at the start of each round. It deprives the show of drama.
I agree that it removes a lot of drama, but clearly the proper strategy for a contestant.
At my age, a "Life In Prison" sentence is not much of a deterrent.
August 10th, 2021 at 5:36:16 PM
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Quote: gordonm888The current champ is taking advantage of his comfort with the competition and buzzer by going immediately to all the high value questions at the start of each round. It deprives the show of drama.
That is exactly what James Holzhauer did. It seems to me that during the last break they randomized the location of the Daily Doubles more, to thwart that strategy. Before it seemed they were in the bottom two rows about 95% of the time and now it's more like 60%. Still it is worth Daily Double hunting at the bottom.
In my opinion, they should be placed with no weighting factors, but all 30 clues having the same chances. An exception is in Double Jeopardy, the two Daily Doubles should be in different categories.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
August 10th, 2021 at 5:38:09 PM
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I would like to announce, mostly to remind myself, that I made a $50 bet with an unspecified forum member that Matt Amodio will survive the rest of this week (the final in this season) and at least one week into the next season.
Hopefully this post will engender less controversy than my Playboy Playmate bet.
Hopefully this post will engender less controversy than my Playboy Playmate bet.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
August 13th, 2021 at 7:15:13 AM
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Mike Richards is officially the new host.
This marks the end of Jeopardy for me. Not sure why they went through this whole audition charade when the executive producer had the fix in from the beginning.
This marks the end of Jeopardy for me. Not sure why they went through this whole audition charade when the executive producer had the fix in from the beginning.
August 13th, 2021 at 7:25:00 AM
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Quote: gamerfreakMike Richards is officially the new host.
This marks the end of Jeopardy for me. Not sure why they went through this whole audition charade when the executive producer had the fix in from the beginning.
I thought they announced there would be two hosts?
The race is not always to the swift, nor the battle to the strong; but that is the way to bet.
August 13th, 2021 at 7:29:27 AM
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Quote: unJonI thought they announced there would be two hosts?
Mayim Bialik is supposedly hosting special events only. It’s just a lame attempt to try and mitigate the controversy surrounding Mike Richards.
She will probably host all of 6 episodes a year.
August 14th, 2021 at 10:28:14 AM
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Joe Buck has completed his week as guest host to mixed reviews. Supporters found him to be "personable" and "humorous". They thought he had a "great voice", "good enunciation" and that he "read the clues at a good pace". Some liked how he did asides and voices like Trebek would occasionally do. There were the usual calls for him to be made permanent host.
Detractors, however, were brutal. Buck, like Howard Cosell, is one of those love/hate sports announcers. They felt he was too "forceful", too "loud" and tried to make things the Joe Buck show with his "nonexistent comedy routine". He might be good for a wilder type of game show but not the cerebral Jeopardy. They also hoped he would be made permanent host because then they wouldn't have to listen to him call another sporting event.
All of this is, of course, moot with this week's announcements. Buck merely becomes a Jeopardy! footnote as the last of the post Trebek guest hosts. Almost 3 million dollars has been donated to charity from the guest host appearances this season.
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In other Jeopardy! news...
Detractors, however, were brutal. Buck, like Howard Cosell, is one of those love/hate sports announcers. They felt he was too "forceful", too "loud" and tried to make things the Joe Buck show with his "nonexistent comedy routine". He might be good for a wilder type of game show but not the cerebral Jeopardy. They also hoped he would be made permanent host because then they wouldn't have to listen to him call another sporting event.
All of this is, of course, moot with this week's announcements. Buck merely becomes a Jeopardy! footnote as the last of the post Trebek guest hosts. Almost 3 million dollars has been donated to charity from the guest host appearances this season.
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In other Jeopardy! news...
As already mentioned, Mike Richards is the man who will fill the shoes of Alex Trebek. Richards will be the permanent host for the nightly syndicated version of the show while also keeping his job as the show's executive producer. Ken Jennings will stay on as a consulting producer.
Mayim Bialik will host primetime specials and tournaments on ABC, starting with a college championship next year. There's also talk of her hosting some sort of national tournament. No word on what this is. Perhaps something along the lines of American Idol with games starting in the sticks and leading to a championship event at the end of the season. Primetime has not been kind to game shows since the golden age of the 1950s. Even "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?" (the US version) dropped off quickly after the novelty of the first season wore off so we'll see how this plays out.
Mayim Bialik will host primetime specials and tournaments on ABC, starting with a college championship next year. There's also talk of her hosting some sort of national tournament. No word on what this is. Perhaps something along the lines of American Idol with games starting in the sticks and leading to a championship event at the end of the season. Primetime has not been kind to game shows since the golden age of the 1950s. Even "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?" (the US version) dropped off quickly after the novelty of the first season wore off so we'll see how this plays out.
Meanwhile, Matt Amodio is on an 18 game winning streak with winnings totaling $574,801. That amount puts him in third place behind only Ken Jennings ($2,520,700) and James Holzhauer ($2,462,216) on the show’s all-time regular season winnings list. He will begin the next season under his 5th host (Richards) and who knows? He might add a 6th host (Bialik) to his bag if he ends up on primetime.
Have you tried 22 tonight? I said 22.
August 15th, 2021 at 1:02:47 PM
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Quote: GialmerePrimetime has not been kind to game shows since the golden age of the 1950s. Even "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?" (the US version) dropped off quickly after the novelty of the first season wore off so we'll see how this plays out.
The last six years or so have been VERY kind to primetime game shows IMO. ABC's "Fun and Games" blocks have brought back no less than seven classic games shows, as well as at least three new shows.
Casinos are not your friends, they want your money. But so does Disneyland.
And there is no chance in hell that you will go to Disneyland and come back with more money than you went with.
- AxelWolf and Mickeycrimm
August 15th, 2021 at 1:32:01 PM
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You have a point. It's not hard to find a game show in prime time these days. Here's a list from 2020...
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Primetime Syndication – Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune
NBC – Weakest Link, The Wall, Hollywood Game Night, and Ellen’s Game of Games
ABC – Supermarket Sweep, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, Card Sharks, Press Your Luck, To Tell the Truth, Match Game, The $100,000 Pyramid, and Celebrity Family Feud
CBS – The Price is Right and Let’s Make a Deal Prime Time Specials
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(And this list doesn't include daytime games or cable channels such as the cook off shows on the Food Network.)
I just don't consider any of them to be must see appointment viewing. Still, game shows are much cheaper to produce than scripted shows. With the ever expanding entertainment options vying for the public's attention, perhaps the networks will look to create a new game show golden age.
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Primetime Syndication – Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune
NBC – Weakest Link, The Wall, Hollywood Game Night, and Ellen’s Game of Games
ABC – Supermarket Sweep, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, Card Sharks, Press Your Luck, To Tell the Truth, Match Game, The $100,000 Pyramid, and Celebrity Family Feud
CBS – The Price is Right and Let’s Make a Deal Prime Time Specials
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(And this list doesn't include daytime games or cable channels such as the cook off shows on the Food Network.)
I just don't consider any of them to be must see appointment viewing. Still, game shows are much cheaper to produce than scripted shows. With the ever expanding entertainment options vying for the public's attention, perhaps the networks will look to create a new game show golden age.
Have you tried 22 tonight? I said 22.
August 15th, 2021 at 7:52:55 PM
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Friday evening I flipped on the TV and Wheel of Fortune was on. I had no idea that show was still running I doubt I have seen it in almost 10 years.
At my age, a "Life In Prison" sentence is not much of a deterrent.
August 15th, 2021 at 9:52:22 PM
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Quote: GialmereYou have a point. It's not hard to find a game show in prime time these days.
The Mrs. and I watched an episode of "To Tell the Truth" and were thoroughly entertained. We almost never watch live TV.
I stopped watching Jeopardy! years ago, and this new host probably won't bring me back.
I heard Vanna White hosted "Wheel" at one point, which I thought was cool. But I guess Pat was out only for a short time. Who remembers Susan Stafford?
August 15th, 2021 at 9:55:04 PM
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Will Ferrell should have gotten the job.
Will Ferrell hosting SNL's "Celebrity Jeopardy"
Will Ferrell hosting SNL's "Celebrity Jeopardy"
"What, me worry?"
August 20th, 2021 at 7:22:30 AM
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Mike Richards Out as ‘Jeopardy!’ Host Amid Cascade of Scandals
https://variety.com/2021/tv/news/mike-richards-jeopardy-host-fired-1235045394
That was quick.
https://variety.com/2021/tv/news/mike-richards-jeopardy-host-fired-1235045394
That was quick.
Ding Dong the Witch is Dead
August 20th, 2021 at 8:07:36 AM
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Wow. Richards taped his first day of (I assume) 5 episodes for the new season and it turned out to be his last day as permanent host. With no time remaining, Sony has announced more guest hosts to stick a finger in the dike.
I have to assume that Bialik is now the favorite since she already has her foot in the door, but who knows how the chips will fall now that the transition has become a fullblown fiasco?
Place your bets.
I have to assume that Bialik is now the favorite since she already has her foot in the door, but who knows how the chips will fall now that the transition has become a fullblown fiasco?
Place your bets.
Have you tried 22 tonight? I said 22.
August 20th, 2021 at 4:41:58 PM
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It's confirmed. Richards spent all of one day in front of the cameras as the new permanent Jeopardy! host. He filmed five episodes and these episodes WILL be aired to start the new season. (Between the strict laws covering game shows and Matt Amodio's winning streak, what choice did they have?) Richards will stay on as the show's executive producer. Will he have a say in who will replace him as permanent host now that he has "retired" from the podium? Speculation is rampant.
Have you tried 22 tonight? I said 22.
August 20th, 2021 at 5:24:43 PM
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What a completely botched process for selecting a new Jeopardy host.
I wouldn't be surprised if Mike Richards is eventually replaced as Executive Producer.
I wouldn't be surprised if Mike Richards is eventually replaced as Executive Producer.
So many better men, a few of them friends, are dead. And a thousand thousand slimy things live on, and so do I.
August 22nd, 2021 at 10:55:39 PM
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It seems the social media mob has now set its sights on Mayim Bialik. She stands accused of...
1) Being an anti-vaxxer
2) Blaming the victims of sexual abuse
3) Hawking snake oil
The first charge is not about Covid but rather a section from her book on raising her children where she mentions that she had delayed getting her kids vaccinated early on because of vaccine-related allergies they had. In the current climate, however, the mob thinks that she, at best, casts doubts on vaccinations.
The second charge is about a NY Times article she wrote titled "Being a Feminist in Harvey Weinstein's World" where she discusses how she would never put herself in the position some of Weinstein's victims placed themselves. "There is no way to avoid being the victim of an assault by what you wear or the way you behave," she wrote days after social media users lambasted her for the article. "I really do regret that this became what it became."
The third charge you may have seen yourself on TV. Here is a 90 second commercial...
You can decide for yourself about the snake oil status.
All of these charges were already known issues, and she does have reasonable counter arguments for her defense, but the mob smells blood and God help anyone who isn't Levar Burton. We'll have to see how this plays out.
Full Story at Best Life
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In other Jeopardy! news, bookies who took new host action seem to be having a problem figuring out what to do. Should they pay Mike Richards' punters?
1) Being an anti-vaxxer
2) Blaming the victims of sexual abuse
3) Hawking snake oil
The first charge is not about Covid but rather a section from her book on raising her children where she mentions that she had delayed getting her kids vaccinated early on because of vaccine-related allergies they had. In the current climate, however, the mob thinks that she, at best, casts doubts on vaccinations.
The second charge is about a NY Times article she wrote titled "Being a Feminist in Harvey Weinstein's World" where she discusses how she would never put herself in the position some of Weinstein's victims placed themselves. "There is no way to avoid being the victim of an assault by what you wear or the way you behave," she wrote days after social media users lambasted her for the article. "I really do regret that this became what it became."
The third charge you may have seen yourself on TV. Here is a 90 second commercial...
You can decide for yourself about the snake oil status.
All of these charges were already known issues, and she does have reasonable counter arguments for her defense, but the mob smells blood and God help anyone who isn't Levar Burton. We'll have to see how this plays out.
Full Story at Best Life
------------------------------------
In other Jeopardy! news, bookies who took new host action seem to be having a problem figuring out what to do. Should they pay Mike Richards' punters?
Last edited by: Gialmere on Aug 23, 2021
Have you tried 22 tonight? I said 22.
August 23rd, 2021 at 5:02:16 AM
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Quote: Gialmere
In other Jeopardy! news, bookies who took new host action seem to be having a problem figuring out what to do. Should they pay Mike Richard punters?
For me, seems pretty clear that they have to. He was announced as the permanent host, taped at least 1 show as permanent host and apparently that show(s) will be aired. I can’t imagine the bet had a condition of how many episodes he needed to host. He had a short tenure but still a tenure. The George Lazenby of Jeopardy. What’s the counter argument?
The only potential wrinkle I see is the fact that they bifurcated the role between two hosts. But that’s separate from the issue raised above.
If I bet on MR and didn’t get paid, I’d be upset.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
August 23rd, 2021 at 6:05:27 AM
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Agreed, and for the reasons you list. The five shows he taped as the new host will all be aired to start the new season. That's about as official as it gets. They should pay (9 to 1) and start a new round of wagering. I'm now reading that all of the next season will be guest hosts.
Heh. I'm digging that Lazenby analogy. Very clever Mr. Bond.
Heh. I'm digging that Lazenby analogy. Very clever Mr. Bond.
Have you tried 22 tonight? I said 22.
August 23rd, 2021 at 8:53:02 AM
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Quote: GialmereIn other Jeopardy! news, bookies who took new host action seem to be having a problem figuring out what to do. Should they pay Mike Richard punters?
I think they should. He was chosen self-appointed the new host. That is tenure lasted less than a week is not relevant to the bet.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
August 23rd, 2021 at 10:15:56 PM
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Sony appears to be standing behind Mayim Bialik. It's announced that she will be the first guest host for the new season and will do 15 episodes to buy time while other hosts are arranged. This is similar to what Richards did last season. Will the results be the same? Both she and Ken Jennings are now considered the favorites for the job (although both have known social media baggage).
Have you tried 22 tonight? I said 22.
August 24th, 2021 at 4:32:36 AM
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Quote: Gialmere(although both have known social media baggage).
What is Ken's baggage?
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
August 24th, 2021 at 6:19:51 AM
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Quote: WizardWhat is Ken's baggage?
“Insensitive” tweets.
https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/celebrities/2020/12/30/jeopardy-star-ken-jennings-apologizes-insensitive-tweets/4094179001/
Bunch of B.S.
People just want to complain.
Ding Dong the Witch is Dead
August 24th, 2021 at 11:01:27 AM
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Quote: ams288“Insensitive” tweets.
https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/celebrities/2020/12/30/jeopardy-star-ken-jennings-apologizes-insensitive-tweets/4094179001/
Bunch of B.S.
People just want to complain.
I am not big on the twitterverse, but its seems like a large number of tweets would qualify as (at least) insensitive.
So many better men, a few of them friends, are dead. And a thousand thousand slimy things live on, and so do I.
August 24th, 2021 at 2:13:55 PM
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I’d like to see LeVar Burton get the job.
Separately, I wish James H. got to guest host as well. Maybe he was asked and declined.
Separately, I wish James H. got to guest host as well. Maybe he was asked and declined.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
August 24th, 2021 at 3:28:35 PM
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Quote: ams288“Insensitive” tweets.
https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/celebrities/2020/12/30/jeopardy-star-ken-jennings-apologizes-insensitive-tweets/4094179001/
The one example they gave about hot handicapped people is not that bad. If that's as bad as it gets, I think people are being way too sensitive about someone who probably has thousands of Tweets.
"For with much wisdom comes much sorrow." -- Ecclesiastes 1:18 (NIV)
August 28th, 2021 at 11:12:42 AM
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Quote: WizardThe one example they gave about hot handicapped people is not that bad. If that's as bad as it gets, I think people are being way too sensitive about someone who probably has thousands of Tweets.
According to a new Wall Street Journal article, it was indeed his tweets that killed his chances. It seems Jennings was the show's hands-down, first choice as Trebek's replacement. With his talent and show history it would have been an almost seamless transition. He even tested well with focus groups until, that is, the groups were informed of his tweets. Then his numbers cratered. Most likely he was out of the running before the last of his episodes even aired. (Life in the 21st century eh?)
Now he's being discussed as the front runner again, but color me skeptical. With Richards gone for insensitive remarks and Bialik still under fire for insensitive remarks, the show looks like a fool and it seems unlikely they'll want to put on a red nose and floppy shoes to complete the ensemble. Suddenly, a candidate like Buzzy Cohen is looking like a fair bet.
The WSJ article is behind a paywall but this Yahoo article discusses its content.
Have you tried 22 tonight? I said 22.
August 28th, 2021 at 11:26:24 AM
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KJ also has a podcast that I listed to often. Omnibus. It’s a good podcast but on more than one occasion he’s said things that would be alienating/offensive to large numbers of Jeopardy viewers. I don’t want to run afoul of the rule about politics but it’s the sort of things Trebek wouldn’t have said, at least not on tape.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
August 28th, 2021 at 6:00:12 PM
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Quote: GialmereAccording to a new Wall Street Journal article, it was indeed his tweets that killed his chances. It seems Jennings was the show's hands-down, first choice as Trebek's replacement. With his talent and show history it would have been an almost seamless transition. He even tested well with focus groups until, that is, the groups were informed of his tweets. Then his numbers cratered. Most likely he was out of the running before the last of his episodes even aired. (Life in the 21st century eh?)
Now he's being discussed as the front runner again, but color me skeptical. With Richards gone for insensitive remarks and Bialik still under fire for insensitive remarks, the show looks like a fool and it seems unlikely they'll want to put on a red nose and floppy shoes to complete the ensemble. Suddenly, a candidate like Buzzy Cohen is looking like a fair bet.
The WSJ article is behind a paywall but this Yahoo article discusses its content.
I am pretty sure Levar Burton is squeaky clean.
August 28th, 2021 at 9:00:25 PM
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Quote: gamerfreak
I am pretty sure Levar Burton is squeaky clean.
He played a character that had a romantic relationship with an AI re-creation of a scientist whose real-life character was married at that time!
August 29th, 2021 at 12:40:05 AM
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Quote: gamerfreakI am pretty sure Levar Burton is squeaky clean.
Yes. Burton is definitely the wildcard in play. And you're right; he seems completely unencumbered by "unfortunate comments". For those thinking of betting on him, however, a few things should be considered.
For starters, does he still even want the job? I would assume yes but, with all the bad publicity now involved, he might not want to be made a pawn in someone else's game again. (It's also been reported that he has received new project offers since acting as host.) Then again, as an actor he's been playing this sort of casting call game his entire life. That's showbiz and all. Let's see if he returns to guest host this season.
Next, he's 64 years old, not exactly the age of a long-haul host the show seems to be hoping for. Of course, Trebek died at 80.
The biggest issue though is that he simply didn't do very well as a guest host. Even his wife thought he appeared nervous. While he improved as his time went on, the same could be said for many other hosts. The press touts him as a fan favorite but are they correct? Levar Burton replacing Alex Trebek is obviously the story the press really to tell but the press doesn't sit around watching Jeopardy! every night. Fan forums place him as middle tier candidate: he's okay but several others did better. Bypassing these "others" might translate into frustrated fans and lower ratings.
So, for Burton, Sony is looking at a choice between choosing him and getting a few days of good press while hoping the ratings hold in the long run or, choosing another host who would please their actual base (thus keeping the gravy train rolling) and then hope that the press manure storm blows over quickly without doing too much damage.
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If you're interested in what the bookies now think, here's how Bovada sees it...
LeVar Burton .......... -125
Ken Jennings ......... +150
Aaron Rodgers ....... +700
Alex Faust .............. +1200
Anderson Cooper ... +1800
Bill Whitaker ........... +2000
Sanjay Gupta ......... +2000
Savannah Guthrie .. +3000
...and here's how BetOnline sees it...
Ken Jennings ................... -150
Mayim Bialik .................... +200
Laura Coates .................. +650
LeVar Burton ................... +700
Buzzy Cohen ................... +900
David Faber .................... +1600
Anderson Cooper ............ +2000
George Stephanopoulos ..+2000
Katie Couric ......................+2000
Dr. Oz .............................. +3300
Joe Buck ......................... +5000
Aaron Rodgers ................ +6600
There seem to be some ridiculous discrepancies here.
Have you tried 22 tonight? I said 22.
August 29th, 2021 at 1:44:02 AM
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Quote: gordonm888I am not big on the twitterverse, but its seems like a large number of tweets would qualify as (at least) insensitive.
That would clearly have an impact on how well he would, or wouldn’t, host Jeopardy.
Except, it totally doesn’t. I didn’t realize he was auditioning to be a sensitivity training coordinator.
Can you imagine being the person going through his entire Twitter history desperately looking for anything insensitive? What a waste of time! I’ve heard tell that there are people who do the same when it comes to the princely position of unpaid WoV Moderator, so who knows what people’s motivations are?
I can’t really say much else without getting political. Come check out DT once in a while. My method of revolt is that I say what I believe in the least sensitive way I can think to do it that’s still within the rules. If anyone asks me for an apology for anything I’ve said, then I’ll tell them what to do with themselves.
https://wizardofvegas.com/forum/off-topic/gripes/11182-pet-peeves/120/#post815219
August 29th, 2021 at 5:26:48 AM
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Quote: GialmereYes. Burton is definitely the wildcard in play. And you're right; he seems completely unencumbered by "unfortunate comments". For those thinking of betting on him, however, a few things should be considered.
For starters, does he still even want the job? I would assume yes but, with all the bad publicity now involved, he might not want to be made a pawn in someone else's game again. (It's also been reported that he has received new project offers since acting as host.) Then again, as an actor he's been playing this sort of casting call game his entire life. That's showbiz and all. Let's see if he returns to guest host this season.
Next, he's 64 years old, not exactly the age of a long-haul host the show seems to be hoping for. Of course, Trebek died at 80.
The biggest issue though is that he simply didn't do very well as a guest host. Even his wife thought he appeared nervous. While he improved as his time went on, the same could be said for many other hosts. The press touts him as a fan favorite but are they correct? Levar Burton replacing Alex Trebek is obviously the story the press really to tell but the press doesn't sit around watching Jeopardy! every night. Fan forums place him as middle tier candidate: he's okay but several others did better. Bypassing these "others" might translate into frustrated fans and lower ratings.
So, for Burton, Sony is looking at a choice between choosing him and getting a few days of good press while hoping the ratings hold in the long run or, choosing another host who would please their actual base (thus keeping the gravy train rolling) and then hope that the press manure storm blows over quickly without doing too much damage.
--------------------------------------------------
If you're interested in what the bookies now think, here's how Bovada sees it...
LeVar Burton .......... -125
Ken Jennings ......... +150
Aaron Rodgers ....... +700
Alex Faust .............. +1200
Anderson Cooper ... +1800
Bill Whitaker ........... +2000
Sanjay Gupta ......... +2000
Savannah Guthrie .. +3000
...and here's how BetOnline sees it...
Ken Jennings ................... -150
Mayim Bialik .................... +200
Laura Coates .................. +650
LeVar Burton ................... +700
Buzzy Cohen ................... +900
David Faber .................... +1600
Anderson Cooper ............ +2000
George Stephanopoulos ..+2000
Katie Couric ......................+2000
Dr. Oz .............................. +3300
Joe Buck ......................... +5000
Aaron Rodgers ................ +6600
There seem to be some ridiculous discrepancies here.
IMO they botched this whole process by making auditions public. The internet now feels like have some kind of skin in the game as to what host gets picked. I think if they would have just announced Mike Richards as host without the public auditions, this all could have shaken out much different.
Now, they have a delicate balancing act of not only finding a competent host, but finding one that both Twitter and hardcore fans approve of.
Dr. Oz for example did really well, a lot of folks were actually saying he was the best guest host. But the internet HATES that guy, seeing him as a doctor turned snake oil salesman.
Picking Levar Burton and coaching him to be a better host is one of the few options they have left.
August 29th, 2021 at 6:58:17 AM
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Quote: gamerfreakIMO they botched this whole process by making auditions public. The internet now feels like have some kind of skin in the game as to what host gets picked. I think if they would have just announced Mike Richards as host without the public auditions, this all could have shaken out much different.
Now, they have a delicate balancing act of not only finding a competent host, but finding one that both Twitter and hardcore fans approve of.
Dr. Oz for example did really well, a lot of folks were actually saying he was the best guest host. But the internet HATES that guy, seeing him as a doctor turned snake oil salesman.
Picking Levar Burton and coaching him to be a better host is one of the few options they have left.
I tend to agree with you, but at this point, it's time to just pick someone and tell the public to stick it.
As I understand it, the median average Jeopardy viewer is 60+, some sources say 65+, so the Twitterverse doesn't really watch Jeopardy. Traditional TV shows are on the decline, people are pulling the plug on cable, Baby Boomers are dying off, Alex Trebek is dead...so I'd say that Jeopardy is pretty much in its dying days anyway. Personally, I think they should pick whatever host they think will retain those who have loyally watched the show for decades, to this point, which is probably Ken Jennings.
It's just really hard for me to believe that Jeopardy will gain replacement viewers at the rate that its current main demographic is going to be dying off. That's actually kind of the problem that the casino industry has been having (land casinos) and one of the reasons online casinos have been doing pretty well.
So, yeah, all of these vocal Internet warriors think they are important and influential, but in reality, they won't be the ones keeping the show alive for however much longer it goes. Don't even give them the satisfaction of believing that you think their opinions matter, because it's not like any of them are going to watch even if you make the Twitter-approved choice.
https://wizardofvegas.com/forum/off-topic/gripes/11182-pet-peeves/120/#post815219
August 31st, 2021 at 9:55:54 AM
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Mike Richards is out as EP.
August 31st, 2021 at 10:11:46 AM
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Quote: rsactuaryMike Richards is out as EP.
I don’t often experience schadenfreude like this.
August 31st, 2021 at 10:28:33 AM
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Quote: gamerfreakI don’t often experience schadenfreude like this.
I agree. He oversaw a sham guest host process, ignored the wishes of fans and chose himself. He was unknown and I didn’t know anyone who was thrilled about him being chosen. Glad to see his decision to orchestrate a farce guest host process ultimately came back to cost him his job. Like the story of the dog with a bone who looks into a lake and sees his reflection.
When Bob Barker stepped down from TPIR, they got it right in picking Drew Carey. He was a bit green at first but was a known person, had a fan base and has come to do a good job.
If anyone gives you 10,000 to 1 on anything, you take it. If John Mellencamp ever wins an Oscar, I am going to be a very rich dude.
August 31st, 2021 at 10:58:52 AM
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I'd try a holographic Art Fleming. If it bombs, who cares. If it works, then you can introduce a holographic Trebek in a few months.
The older I get, the better I recall things that never happened
