Why Are Variety Shows Returning?

[Ksyrup]

First it was Jessica Simpson and her husband, now the Barenaked Ladies are getting a Fox variety show.

Maybe it's just me, but of all the "shake-your-head, what-were-they-thinking" things that came to prominence in the 70's (and there were a lot of them), variety shows are at the top of my list.

I'm not talking about the Ed Sullivan-type shows, but the kind hosted by popular-at-the-time music/TV personalities like Sonny & Cher, Tony & Olrando, and the Osmonds. I just don't understand the appeal. Bad acting, bad jokes, and B-list guest stars.

THIS is the response to reality TV?

[stevew]

And the canadian influence on hollywood grows again........

[rkmsuf]

I miss the Wayne Brady show.

[gstelmack]

I think this is a reaction to the "we don't have enough good ideas, so let's create CSI/L&O #5!" syndrome. It's a way to put something different on. Frankly, "Blue Collar TV" is better than most of the sitcoms out there.

[Fonzie]

Bring back the Mandrell sisters!

[rkmsuf]

Bring back Hee-Haw!

[Ksyrup]

I like Wayne Brady, but a variety show is the last type of show I'd want to watch him in.

[stevew]

Is Wayne Brady gonna have to choke a bitch?

[rkmsuf]

I like Wayne Brady, but a variety show is the last type of show I'd want to watch him in.

He was in one. His own in fact.

[Ksyrup]

I know. And I didn't watch it.

[Fonzie]

All Hail Brak!

[rkmsuf]

I know. And I didn't watch it.

It was spectacular

[Desnudo]

First it was Jessica Simpson and her husband, now the Barenaked Ladies are getting a Fox variety show.

Maybe it's just me, but of all the "shake-your-head, what-were-they-thinking" things that came to prominence in the 70's (and there were a lot of them), variety shows are at the top of my list.

I'm not talking about the Ed Sullivan-type shows, but the kind hosted by popular-at-the-time music/TV personalities like Sonny & Cher, Tony & Olrando, and the Osmonds. I just don't understand the appeal. Bad acting, bad jokes, and B-list guest stars.

THIS is the response to reality TV?

The comeback of ugly shirts combined with extra buttons open a few years ago should have warned you that this was on the way.

[GrantDawg]

Bring back the Mandrell sisters!
I loved that show. Of course I was just a kid then and would not watch it now.

[Fonzie]

I loved that show. Of course I was just a kid then and would not watch it now.

I did too, though like you I was just a kid at the time and can't imagine it having any current appeal. However, the non-Barbara sisters were, as I recall, fairly cute.

[GrantDawg]

I did too, though like you I was just a kid at the time and can't imagine it having any current appeal. However, the non-Barbara sisters were, as I recall, fairly cute.
Yup. I had a crush on the brunette Mandrel sister, too. Louise Mandrell, if I remember correctly.