The Game Show Forum
The Game Show Forum => Game Show Channels & Networks => Topic started by: JMFabiano on July 08, 2003, 10:33:59 PM
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Obviously, I do not mean GSN is dying business-wise, but yes, I mean as far as what it used to mean to so many of us. Which I agree is a shame. Yeah, yeah, I know, \"They need to make money,\" and \"It's just TV, get over it.\" Still, as a person who is disappointed with the utter lack of entertainment in \"entertainment\" nowadays, it sucks to be more limited to my choices in means of \"escape\" back to the stuff I grew up with, or things from earlier decades (which I consider now to be \"back when people cared about making good TV, music, etc\") It's happening with GSN like it did with the AMC before it, and with Cartoon Network (though the weekends are great, what with He-Man when it's new, the DC related shows, Popeye, and Adult Swim. And they DO have Boomerang, another hint hint! ;-)) To a lesser extent, and if I remember some of you from ATGS correctly, you'll flame me for this, there's wrestling as well. WWE is abyssmal now, and I don't even watch it regularly anymore, opting instead for my old tapes and the occasional indy.
I guess what I'm saying in so many words is that I guess my disillusionment with the media today aggravates what GSN is now and what it might become. You can see how I feel left out in my little world of TV Land, GSN and CN (when it's good), and British TV on PBS.
Just needed to vent!
J.
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Nostalgia sure isn't what it used to be.
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fX.
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Well, since the fire has already started, I guess I will add fuel to it.
What our friend here is saying is spot on...all the way to the whole WWE argument. More about that later. Rather than break from the trend of today's insidious programming, GSN (as they are now called) wants to become PART OF IT.
I am not saying that the channel should be an all-classic channel. Of the originals that they show, Lingo and Russian Roulette are my favorites. I will stick to my reasoning that I am far from anti-original. However, one thing that bothers me is that these shows are aired ad nauseum to the point where the novelty wears off QUICKLY. The latest offerings of Cram, Naturally Stoned, and Funny Money also show me that they are not sure as to what audience they want to get, whether it is the comedy club hoppers, insomniacs, or the latest breed of Spike TV and E! viewers.
This is EXACTLY what has happened to Moron Television (MTV), Vehicular Homicide One (VH-1), and the Pseudo-Cartoon Newtork (Nickelodeon). Rather than serve the purpose that the channel implies, they are throwing crap at the wall and seeing what sticks. Sure, they have their money and their audience of nearly mindless drones who are suckers for anything, but the quality of programming is being sacrificed, and those who actually watch television for meaning suffer.
The \"recent rerun acquisition\" method is pretty tiresome, as well. It is hard to give a static schedule to shows that lasted less than a year and were aired on and after 1999. The \"major announcement\" about gaining 21 was more of a \"minor disappointment\" than anything. Also, the future airings of G4 related programming show me that GSN is running off in a tangent, much like many other cable networks. Much like the channels that I have mentioned above, GSN used to be a channel that you could never pull me away from. Now, I have to find my pleasure elsewhere. It is sad when I have more fun TAPE TRADING than watching GSN.
I am sure that there is hope for GSN and am not as quick for placing the tombstone on this young network. I just say that it should do what works; the documentary of the Michael Larsen incident was a kick-ass effort, despite its cheesy moments. Documentary type formats are good for GSN; it is innovative, yet it does not stray from its purpose. All the small things will help to make this a big network. Hell, they may do something to commemorate their 10th anniversary, which is very soon!
My point is, GSN should let the audience starve for it, and not the other way around. Mix things up, and let variety be the spice of life.
The Inquisitive One
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[quote name=\'Matt Ottinger\' date=\'Jul 8 2003, 10:08 PM\'] Nostalgia sure isn't what it used to be. [/quote]
Actually, I'd say what it COULD be. I mean, there's definitely an audience and a place for it. If there wasn't, would there be any MOGSM, and on VH1, I Love the 80s, among other examples?
J.
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[quote name=\'TheInquisitiveOne\' date=\'Jul 8 2003, 10:38 PM\'] The latest offerings of Cram, Naturally Stoned, and Funny Money also show me that they are not sure as to what audience they want to get, whether it is the comedy club hoppers, insomniacs, or the latest breed of Spike TV and E! viewers. [/quote]
I'm not really going to comment on the rest of the post as I'm not going to post a counterpoint for the sole purpose of playing devil's advocate, this is something that I want to address.
The normal audience for a game show is middle-aged women. Especially traditional game shows, which is something I could expand and theorize on if I wanted to be burned at the stake. Cram and NLFM are two shows that are trying to expand that demographic without losing it... Cram especially can appeal to people of all ages, and NLFM can have appeal to the twentysomethings without being appalling to the thirtysomethings. Those two shows are inoffensive fare which is out of the bounds of the traditional game show, yet don't clash with the boundaries of a traditional game show.
And Naturally Stoned just satisfies the public's curiosity in a similar way to The Osbournes, although I think NS would be much more interesting if there was a Ozzy Woolery :^)
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[quote name=\'TheInquisitiveOne\' date=\'Jul 8 2003, 10:38 PM\'] Well, since the fire has already started, I guess I will add fuel to it.
What our friend here is saying is spot on...all the way to the whole WWE argument. More about that later. Rather than break from the trend of today's insidious programming, GSN (as they are now called) wants to become PART OF IT.
I am not saying that the channel should be an all-classic channel. Of the originals that they show, Lingo and Russian Roulette are my favorites. I will stick to my reasoning that I am far from anti-original. However, one thing that bothers me is that these shows are aired ad nauseum to the point where the novelty wears off QUICKLY. The latest offerings of Cram, Naturally Stoned, and Funny Money also show me that they are not sure as to what audience they want to get, whether it is the comedy club hoppers, insomniacs, or the latest breed of Spike TV and E! viewers.
This is EXACTLY what has happened to Moron Television (MTV), Vehicular Homicide One (VH-1), and the Pseudo-Cartoon Newtork (Nickelodeon). Rather than serve the purpose that the channel implies, they are throwing crap at the wall and seeing what sticks. Sure, they have their money and their audience of nearly mindless drones who are suckers for anything, but the quality of programming is being sacrificed, and those who actually watch television for meaning suffer.
The "recent rerun acquisition" method is pretty tiresome, as well. It is hard to give a static schedule to shows that lasted less than a year and were aired on and after 1999. The "major announcement" about gaining 21 was more of a "minor disappointment" than anything. Also, the future airings of G4 related programming show me that GSN is running off in a tangent, much like many other cable networks. Much like the channels that I have mentioned above, GSN used to be a channel that you could never pull me away from. Now, I have to find my pleasure elsewhere. It is sad when I have more fun TAPE TRADING than watching GSN.
I am sure that there is hope for GSN and am not as quick for placing the tombstone on this young network. I just say that it should do what works; the documentary of the Michael Larsen incident was a kick-ass effort, despite its cheesy moments. Documentary type formats are good for GSN; it is innovative, yet it does not stray from its purpose. All the small things will help to make this a big network. Hell, they may do something to commemorate their 10th anniversary, which is very soon!
My point is, GSN should let the audience starve for it, and not the other way around. Mix things up, and let variety be the spice of life.
The Inquisitive One [/quote]
Thanks for the feedback, TI1. So you understand my comment about the WWE, huh? Can I assume you're another who is tired of being made to worship at the altar of Triple H? ;-)
Yeah I agree that the originals we do have contain some watchable programs, which is more than we can say for certain past \"efforts\" that shall not be named. Besides the one you name, Whammy is all right once you've gotten over that this is PYL without network backing. My problem, I guess, is with the affixation on more suspect choices of programs and acquisitions. The video game programming, as far as I've heard, has nothing to do with game shows (a doc on the history of VGs may be cool, though, I admit). I am reminded of my problem with the old Game TV, which sometimes seemed to be about GS once or twice a week (they'd have a guest sometimes, and then there was Friday with Fred Wostbrook). And getting recent, short lived series just comes off as looking cheap and lazy. Besides, why would I care about programs that I saw not too long ago and wasn't overly impressed with, and/or lack that element of \"pleasant memories\"? Yeah, I know I defend Adult Swim on CN, but somehow shows like Futurama and Family Guy fit in more naturally. I don't know why. Plus they're pretty good too ;-)
Now, if you're on the GSN boards, you may be familiar with two characters whose initials are JC and BC1234/5/5555. I am in no way the \"extremists\" they are, but sometimes I wonder a bit whether we really had it that bad under Fleming? I know he was going the same direction and probably even WORSE, but the schedule of classics seemed less inhibited as it is now somehow.
I think I wouldn't mind so much if I wasn't totally disenchanted by, oh, 85% of everything else on TV. I hardly watch the networks, and with cable it's usually looking for something that looks interesting, at the spur of the moment. Like with too many other forms of entertainment, I believe that things are now largely not about the acting, the talent, and the entertainment value in general. It's just about petty things like how you look, and if said person/show is the \"flavor of the month.\" The shows I do make a point to catch are like blips on the map. (Off the top of my head, of the ones \"freshest\" to me there's PYL Wednesdays; My Hero and Coupling on Fridays and Saturdays on different PBS stations; Superman and the Popeye Show on CN Saturdays; and...that's about it!)
Looks like I turned in another rant here!
J.
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[quote name=\'JMFabiano\' date=\'Jul 8 2003, 09:10 PM\'] [quote name=\'Matt Ottinger\' date=\'Jul 8 2003, 10:08 PM\'] Nostalgia sure isn't what it used to be. [/quote]
Actually, I'd say what it COULD be. I mean, there's definitely an audience and a place for it. If there wasn't, would there be any MOGSM, and on VH1, I Love the 80s, among other examples?
J. [/quote]
{VRRRRRRRRRROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMM!}
{Chris looks up to see Joke Airways screaming over JM's head}
You haven't looked up \"redundant\" in the dictionary lately, have you? :)
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Can I assume you're another who is tired of being made to worship at the altar of Triple H? ;-)
That is right. I hate to stray in a tangent, but H3's backstage politics, coupled with bad writing and Vince's refusal to listen to the fans, makes for RAW is CRAP every Monday night.
And getting recent, short lived series just comes off as looking cheap and lazy. Besides, why would I care about programs that I saw not too long ago and wasn't overly impressed with, and/or lack that element of \"pleasant memories\"?
Again, I agree. Maybe Gurin is having some stroke in this, but the money used in acquiring TWL, 21, and Greed, could be used as an effort to make Fremantle crack and give up such shows as $ale of the Century and Scrabble, the more established Chuck Woolery classic that would help in boosting my interest in Naturally Stoned and Lingo. Never mind the money that is being pissed away for the effort of becoming G4 the Second...
Yeah, I know I defend Adult Swim on CN, but somehow shows like Futurama and Family Guy fit in more naturally. I don't know why. Plus they're pretty good too ;-)
These shows were killed well before their times. You can blame this purely on FOX's lack of scheduling skill. These shows would help make FOX Sunday Night Appointment TV along with The Simpsons and King of the Hill. What do we have instead? Crap like Malcolm in the Middle and Oliver Beene, shows that are not even HALF as funny as the animated series. Sorry for the tangency, again.
I think I wouldn't mind so much if I wasn't totally disenchanted by, oh, 85% of everything else on TV.
My sentiments exactly.
...sometimes I wonder a bit whether we really had it that bad under Fleming? I know he was going the same direction and probably even WORSE, but the schedule of classics seemed less inhibited as it is now somehow.
Though the originals under the Fleming era were bush-league garbage, his classics scheduled more than covered those inkblots. Do I really need to mention The Price is Right? Also there was the G-T library, Bumper Stumpers (my guilty pleasure), and many others. Cronin, on the other hand, made the originals innovative and watchable but, at the same time, kicked the classics to the curb. I am sure that a middle ground can be sought here. (Not that the classics are phased out of the picture, it is that MORE could be added to the mix.)
And that is all I have to say about that.
The Inquisitive One
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It does not feel like it did when the network started. When I started watching they had the b/w in primetime with Peter Tomarkin doing the interactive gameshows like race for the numbers and things like that. They also had Marrianne Curran with Saturday night Wide World of Games and the morning show and the afternoon show I can not remember the name. It was more laid back and it was all the games. I still like Match Games and shows like that, but it does nto have the same feel.
Thank you
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I'll add my 2 cents in here:
I've been thinking lately that we had it better under Fleming as well. To give Cronin credit, when he first came to GSN he gave us \"Press Your Luck\" and \"Let's Make a Deal\" (two shows that actually could have been part of GSN from the beginning), and most of his originals are way better.
However, being a \"classics\" lover, it was much better before Cronin arrived. Maybe we wouldn't have had \"PYL\" and \"LMAD\" if Fleming had stayed, but at least we would have had a lot more use of the vault. Fleming wasn't afraid to try things, such as running the CBS \"Joker's Wild\", doing \"Games of the Week\", or even having obscure shows like \"Perfect Match\" on the weekends. I know a lot of us complained even then, but those shows and ideas are likely never to be seen again - unless our hope of a GSN2 comes around.
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Cram especially can appeal to people of all ages,
This is quite true. I have friends who own a bed and breakfast, enjoy the fact that GSN has been added to their digital cable... and they're in their SIXTIES!
Cheers,
Ryan V.
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I've said it before and I'll say it again: GSN has succumbed to advertiser pressure. If TV was not so money-driven, we'd be enjoying a more classic-driven GSN. But look at the advertising industry from my perspective: even though I fall in the 18-to-49 demo, I do not throw my money at just any product I see on TV. The people who do are the ones who watch trash like Friends and Fear Factor, but don't even know who Bill Cullen was. I never buy anything other than essentials, especially after getting laid-off, because I know my life savings will eventually become a down payment on my congressman's new Porsche. If everybody in the country had my views, TV will cease to exist.
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It seems to me that GSN is starting to think that you can't run a network on \"niche\" programming. I mean, look at most of your cable networks, and how they've strayed from their original roots. One of the most notrorius examples will always be MTV, and more recently, AMC. Hell, even Nick, a station I grew up on with Double Dare, You Can't Do That on Television and other gems, has become nothing but Spongebob and Rugrats. Why? Original programming brings in $$$.[/COLOR]
The thing is, as has been stated a million times here, you can't run your network on nothing but 20 year old game shows. Yes, it would be nice, but GSN has to make money to stay above water, hence the crop of originals. Just the same, MTV can't make money on music videos 24/7, hence the crop of (crappy) original programming.
However, I'll counter that argument by saying 1) GSN needs to keep their original programming within the confines of game shows (\"GS\"N), just like MTV should keep theirs within the confines of music (\"M\"TV).
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After reading a lot of the comments from all of you, I'd have to agree with most of your sentiments.
While I was probably happier than a lot of people to see PYL come to GSN (!), I was kinda sad to see shows like TJW, TTD, and BS leave the schedule. You'd think Cronin would've taken a hint from that \"Feast of Favorites\" thing he did; if I were him, I would've put TJW and TTD right back on the sked, even if just for a weekend slot.
In a sense, I guess you're right: Cronin looks like he's trying to scale down the classics to just the ones with proven ratings. While I do see the need to make money and whatnot, come on, how many of you got up early and/or set your VCR's when \"Trivia Trap\" was on for three months?
Also, we're not the only ones who enjoy the classics. As I mentioned in another thread, when my friends talk about and/or watch GSN, they mention the CLASSICS, not the ORIGINALS (I have one friend who likes \"Cram\" and another who despises \"Lingo,\" and that's all they say about the originals). Trust me, there are way more people that will raise an eyebrow to mention of \"Bumper Stumpers\" than will to \"Cram;\" at least, among people I know!
I didn't mind that the classics were being scaled down to the morning hours, but I did mind that they were very repetitive and basically just the same few shows we've seen time and time again. And how many of you were PO'ed that they picked LC instead of Scrabble for Chuck's classic show? :)
As is true with any TV station, however, money has to be made. It's no surprise to me that GSN wants to focus on the development of originals, but I was very shocked that they decided to make a switch toward video games. Even more so, 21? It had 19 episodes!!!!!!
As far as a GSN 2 is concerned, before you say \"It's never gonna happen; deal with it,\" who would've ever pictured a Nick GaS? I think it's very feasible; however, don't expect it anytime in the near future.
As Matt said, nostalgia isn't what it used to be anymore, and he's right. Instead of being a cornerstone, it's almost as if the classics are filler, and we all know that shouldn't be. I'm not suggesting that GSN scrap their originals (most of them are watchable!) for classics, but I am suggesting that they at least give them some consideration when making up schedules for that \"irresistible demo.\" BTW, I'm in that demo, and nothing ticks me off more than shows aimed at me since they're too flashy and don't even care about entertainment value; what's the point in wathching with that?
Okay; I'm done now. Thanks for reading!
Anthony
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[quote name=\'beatlefreak84\' date=\'Jul 9 2003, 08:45 AM\'] And how many of you were PO'ed that they picked LC instead of Scrabble for Chuck's classic show? :)
[/quote]
The possibility does exist, you know, that they were unable to secure Scrabble, and therefore had little choice but to get LC, if they wanted a Woolery-hosted show that wasn't Greed or WOF.
To be angry at a programming decision like that when you don't know half of the details, much less all of them, shows a great deal of ignorance.
The amount of whining in this thread is getting completely and utterly nauseating.
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[quote name=\'beatlefreak84\' date=\'Jul 9 2003, 10:45 AM\'] Also, we're not the only ones who enjoy the classics. As I mentioned in another thread, when my friends talk about and/or watch GSN, they mention the CLASSICS, not the ORIGINALS (I have one friend who likes "Cram" and another who despises "Lingo," and that's all they say about the originals). Trust me, there are way more people that will raise an eyebrow to mention of "Bumper Stumpers" than will to "Cram;" at least, among people I know!
[/quote]
I think the people you know are not the standard-grade game show fans and are closer to becoming the hardcore fans that us wonderful people on this board are. If I mentioned Bumper Stumpers to a standard-issue game show fan, I'd be immediately checked into a drug rehabilitation clinic.
As Matt said, nostalgia isn't what it used to be anymore, and he's right. Instead of being a cornerstone, it's almost as if the classics are filler, and we all know that shouldn't be.
Why shouldn't it be? Considering that the worst original is better than half of the shows they've had access to these 8-1/2 years, classics being filler could be a reasonable expectation.
BTW, I'm in that demo, and nothing ticks me off more than shows aimed at me since they're too flashy and don't even care about entertainment value; what's the point in wathching with that?
Maybe because you're not the average person in the demo? I've come to accept that I'm far from average as far as television goes, so I end up watching some things that (based on age, gender, and location) I wouldn't be expected to watch. I'm far from average because I'd prefer old, faded reruns of The $20,000 Pyramid to the current version (although I'm not knocking the current version at every possibile moment).
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I don't see why GSN just doesn't put some rare stuff on in the mornings from 9-12. That could shut up the BC's and JC's of GSN for a while and still have the primetime for originals.
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To be angry at a programming decision like that when you don't know half of the details, much less all of them, shows a great deal of ignorance.
Maybe next time I'll BOLD the smiley face, Chris! Trust me, I don't have a hit list of all GSN employees on my computer, okay? I was a little upset at the fact that LC is on the schedule, but, you're right, I don't know the circumstances behind it, and that's why I'm not upset anymore. I've come to accept it as well as I have the originals.
I think the people you know are not the standard-grade game show fans and are closer to becoming the hardcore fans that us wonderful people on this board are. If I mentioned Bumper Stumpers to a standard-issue game show fan, I'd be immediately checked into a drug rehabilitation clinic.
Well, I do have one friend who can probably fit in quite well on this board, but the rest are about as clueless toward game shows as you can get (one even asked me if Bob Barker was still hosting TPIR). My father, for example, didn't even know what \"Pyramid\" was yet knew \"Bumper Stumpers,\" and he profoundly hates all game shows except for that one. Talk about strange!
The amount of whining in this thread is getting completely and utterly nauseating.
Well, I would hope that my responses weren't considered whining, but it's no surprise why this turned into a whining thread. It's a programming change that's going to tick some people off (and, as is evident from the GSN boards, MANY!), and, to many of us, GSN is like our form of TV heaven, and we don't like things that could interfere with our TV heaven, right? :).
Honestly, if GSN does turn into the next G4, I will be initially disappointed, but I've got tape after tape from the \"good ol' days,\" so I'll be kept busy for quite a while. Hey; I lived through the USA abrupt end to the game show block; I can do this, too! :)
Anthony
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[quote name=\'beatlefreak84\' date=\'Jul 9 2003, 09:33 AM\'] Maybe next time I'll BOLD the smiley face, Chris!
Trust me, I don't have a hit list of all GSN employees on my computer, okay?
[/quote]
Mea culpa, you're right, and my comments weren't directed towards you specifically. While you seem to have enough sense to accept what's going on, a lot of folks who have been yammering on about this don't.
Well, I would hope that my responses weren't considered whining, but it's no surprise why this turned into a whining thread.
Again, that wasn't directed at you, just the overall tone of what I've seen. We've got people screaming like the world is coming to an end, and while I love game shows as much as anyone here, if the evolution of GSN is really impacting your (the global \"your\") life in a negative way that much, I'm thinking some folks here would do well to pick up an extra hobby or two.
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[quote name=\'beatlefreak84\' date=\'Jul 9 2003, 10:45 AM\'] And how many of you were PO'ed that they picked LC instead of Scrabble for Chuck's classic show? :) [/quote]
I don't think the acquisition of LC had as much to do with Chuck as it is the (inexplicable) popularity of relationship shows, like The Bachelor.
However, I'll counter that argument by saying 1) GSN needs to keep their original programming within the confines of game shows (\"GS\"N), just like MTV should keep theirs within the confines of music (\"M\"TV).
Today, \"MTV\" is just initials that don't stand for anything. MTV made the decision to divest themselves from music videos. If GSN wants to move away from game shows and try to to get those Friends fans who'll buy anything they see on TV--but chase us away for good in the process--that's a risk they're willing to take. They'll either end up just another USA or go down trying.
Bottom line: we're a dying breed.
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I don't think the acquisition of LC had as much to do with Chuck as it is the (inexplicable) popularity of relationship shows, like The Bachelor.
I think the Chuck factor was a major reason.
Today, \"MTV\" is just initials that don't stand for anything.
Their logo still has the byline \"Music Television.\"
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Pre-Cronin GSN Originals: Jep!, Throut and Neck, Burt Ludden's Love Buffet, All New 3s a Croud.
Cronin GSN: Whammy!, Russian Roulette, Lingo, WinTuition
You have to admit, they are getting WAY better.
GSN wants to deviate from it's roots, so be it. Thats why God invented the VCR, DVD, and other networks.
(Food Network is a good one)
-Joe R.
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I enjoy Food Network too, but anybody notice that their schedule lately includes a good number of game shows? Are they straying from their original focus on cooking shows? :)
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I'm sorry, but I'm gonna say what's been burning on my mind for a while.
Being game show freaks doesn't exactly put us on the top rung of the social ladder. I'm sure that quite a few of us, myself and the late Randy Amasia included, have felt at one time or another that we were the only game show fans. Not true when we discovered GSN and places like ATGS and it's successors. GSN let us see all the shows we grew up with, and ATGS let us discuss them with other game show freaks. I mean, outside of us fans, who cares about how the Concentration board works or how much TPiR announcers get paid?
Now, look at GSN today. A whole boatload of originals, some good (Whammy, Lingo, Russian Roulette), some average (WinTuition, Funny Money), and some downright bad (Cram, Friend or Foe). The few classics left are either at rotten times or seemingly abandoned. Love Connection is not a game show (don't play the \"EoTVGS lists it\" card. They left out Fantasy, which had more game show-ness than LC), MG syndie is only on weekends, as is the original Squares. MGPM gets maybe too much exposure, NNG is in an OK slot, Pyramid's been rerun abused, LMAD has been reran too much, as has Blockbusters. The vertivision blocks are only temporary.
And then we get this: GSN throws mucho buckos at importing a British video game show. [Insert \"Whew\" longshot screech here] Even worse, it's already being rerun on a little network called G4. So what in the blue hell is it doing here?! IMO, Rich Cronin really stuck his foot in his mouth when he said \"we will expand but stay true to our brand.\"
Which gets me to the point of this rant: if the video game block succeeds, more of it's kind will be brought in, gradually eradicating all the classic game shows. So where, pray tell, do us game show obsessed freaks go now?
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[quote name=\'PeterMarshallFan\' date=\'Jul 9 2003, 08:23 PM\'] And then we get this: GSN throws mucho buckos at importing a British video game show. [Insert "Whew" longshot screech here] Even worse, it's already being rerun on a little network called G4. So what in the blue hell is it doing here?! ... if the video game block succeeds, more of it's kind will be brought in, gradually eradicating all the classic game shows. [/quote]
There is one ray of hope: GSN imported Who Dares Wins to capitalize on the (even more inexplicable) success of Fear Factor. Had it gone over big, we wouldn't have Lingo now; we'd have more stunt shows. Fortunately, WDW laid a big egg and it's back in Australia where it belongs.
But while I won't play the LC card, I must say this: I do not get G4. Neither do millions of viewers, so it's new to us. We'll just have to see how this plays out.
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[quote name=\'PeterMarshallFan\' date=\'Jul 9 2003, 06:23 PM\'] So where, pray tell, do us game show obsessed freaks go now? [/quote]
How about \"outside?\" :)
George, George, George, you are illustrating my point perfectly. I salute and support you in your love for this genre of television, but fer God sake, man.
I'm 32 years old. I didn't have GSN until I moved up here to Seattle almost five years ago. I don't trade tapes. Hell, the only GS-related videotape in my library (if you don't count Iron Chef) is the Larsen special.
I made it 27 years without GSN. I'm pretty sure I won't drop dead if it goes away. (Frankly, for me, any reason to watch the channel regularly dove about the same time they lost TPiR, stuck the B/W shows on overnights, and pretty much killed the variety of programming with reairs of the original shows.)
Raygor's got the right idea. There are other things you can watch if you still have to watch TV.
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Time for me to put in my $1.02 in this:
I've been a hardcore GS fan since I was a TODDLER. I was watching USA Game Shows EVERY DAY. I have three tapes recorded from USA! I'd been killing for GSN, since I only had about 15 or so tapes. when I got GSN, it ballooned to over 60.
So this video game thing might be a problem. Folks, I've seen both shows on G4. The only problem is that the news there is months outdated! There's previews for games that are \"set to come out in a few months\"... IN EUROPE. In the US, it's already out! Just an example...
While, yes, I can live without GSN (it just means my tape collection will screech to a halt again), I just wish it didn't keep going through these phases where they do something real good (like acquire PYL, for example), then do something bad (getting the VG block)...
Now that I've probably ranted on stuff not even mentioned in the topic, I wrap it up. :P
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I've been a hardcore GS fan since I was a TODDLER. I was watching USA Game Shows EVERY DAY. I have three tapes recorded from USA! I'd been killing for GSN, since I only had about 15 or so tapes. when I got GSN, it ballooned to over 60.
But that's the thing...I'm not saying you do this, but some Game Show fans think that GSN exists only for their tape collecting pleasure. It doesn't work that way.
BTW, we didn't get cable til 1993. (don't ask) and the day after it was installed, who stayed home from school to watch Sale of The Century? :-)
Which gets me to the point of this rant: if the video game block succeeds, more of it's kind will be brought in, gradually eradicating all the classic game shows. So where, pray tell, do us game show obsessed freaks go now?
But do you really think it will succeed? I mean, If a baby network like G4 drops it, what makes GSn think it will do well on their network? (Which brings up a new question for me...why did GSn get this?) I don't think this will be a problem. I think you may be jumping the gun here. Cronin is not stupid enough to drop all of the classics. FF, TNG, and MG pull good enough ratings to stick around. So do the new originals, like FM, Lingo, RR and W!. I think everyone is suspecting and reading WAAAYYY too much into this. And you have to admit too...they didn't get rid of all the classics, just 6 hours worth...out of 125+. Just let it pass...and wait and see. Don't say GSN is dying, give it some time.
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[quote name=\'urbanpreppie05\' date=\'Jul 10 2003, 08:51 AM\'] they didn't get rid of all the classics, just 6 hours worth...out of 125+. Just let it pass...and wait and see. Don't say GSN is dying, give it some time. [/quote]
Way back on the old stomping grounds (a.t.g-s of course), T. Jay posted how Cartoon Network and GSN are similar in that they both started with an all-classics lineup, and eventually just added more and more original shows......CN, while most of their schedule is filled with their originals, still makes time for some older classics. I also don't think GSN is dying....I always think there will be room for classic shows on their schedule, even if it's confined to a few short hours a day, if it ever comes to that.
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(Which brings up a new question for me...why did GSn get this?)
GSN is looking for cheap programming.
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Ya know what? I think I got why I'm extra-bitter about this video game stuff. The piss-poor* response on the GSN Boards is what did it for me.
[Insert off topic rant]
I think Gene Platt hit the nail on the heard when he said \"They couldn't handle the heat so they deleted the thread. thericker is welcome to insert his head into his ass.\"
I wholeheartedly agree. Thericker's first mistake was saying \"This is one part of a bigger plan.\" A plan for what, per se? Replacing half the schedule with VG's to become the next G4?
His second mistake, the one that sealed my suspicions about GSN's wanting to become GN: \"You think games on TV you think ? Wouldn't it be nice to think Game Show Network?\" Ummm, No. \"Games\" and \"Game shows\" are 2 different things. If I want to think Games on TV, I'll think GAS, G4, etc.
And then the killer was when I posted what the FlashGames2 [How do I make superscript?] moderator who said \"GSN wants to scale itself away from the GAME SHOW genre and aim for GAMES in general.\" I followed that up with \"Someone at GSN f**ked up big this time.\" 10 minutes later I was banned. I guess they figured, why only take care of the thread when you can get rid of an outspoken opponent to your move at the same time? I'm surprised there wasn't mass banning.
[end off-topic rant]
Now I'll go back to the How Do You Like Your Eggs room.
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First of all, while I stand by my original statement of anal gymnastics in regard to thericker (especially since I had a rather length post on that thread), I was at least smart enough to make that statement over here, not on their board. You made a direct attack on their board, nothing more, and they were pretty darn clear what that would lead to. You shot yourself in the foot there, and you're dealing with the consequences.
I don't hold it against you for feeling bitter about their actions. It was very, very clearly a negative response from all but the most die-hard apologists over there, and GSN's response was typical of many businesses, with the ramifications typically being disasterous both for future sales and for P.R. (see Ultima IX) At the same time, with so many responses approaching the ... \"level of insight\" ... you used in the one that got you banned, I can see why they considered deletion. (ricker, stay where you are, continue to assume the position)
Now then, the \"bigger plan\" is to move toward a more general games network. It won't happen. You won't pick up G4's audience, and you will lose what you have now. I'm sorry, but why in the world would I sit through two hours of video game programming -- just to see reviews? I can already do that now at a hundred different sites.
One issue we won't have to worry about so much is \"reruns\". Gamer.tv is actually a 5-a-week show, of which we'll get two. Game Sauce is actually twice-a-week, and we'll get one of those. This means GSN will (save holidays) get something it has failed to have with any other show since the age of dial-in interactives -- year-round original programming.
So the gambit is laid down -- will they get enough young eyeballs to justify dirt-cheap, internationally-produced, syndicated programming which requires an overt change in their programming mission? What's more, can they actually get them to sit for a 2-hour block (that's the part that makes me ultra-cynical).
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[quote name=\'parliboy\' date=\'Jul 12 2003, 11:52 AM\'] So the gambit is laid down -- will they get enough young eyeballs to justify dirt-cheap, internationally-produced, syndicated programming which requires an overt change in their programming mission? What's more, can they actually get them to sit for a 2-hour block (that's the part that makes me ultra-cynical). [/quote]
And I can answer all that with one word: No.
As GSN *should* be remembering from October 1997-April 1998 is that you can only push your viewer base so far before they push back (I've read a good deal of the ATGS archives of the time...for those who've never seen the DP-era posts......It's good reading, and chock full of chock-full-ness!)
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While we're on it, I think the IQ of GSN has dropped at least 20 points since yesterday. I now know A) someone who kisses ass to Belinkoff, and B) what a true, full blooded Tomarkenite is.
ObGameShow: Bullseye had a great set. Cram sucks.
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It's Uncle Penguin's Compare Current GSN to the Dark Period Show (Episode 3....check ATGS for Ep 1, and ezBoard for Ep 2)
I present a quote from 1997, and notes relating to something recent.
1997: From a form letter from GSN re: the removal of all non-TPiR/FF94 G-T shows
It is time to advance to the next level by offering more variations on the game show product to keep pace with our rapidly growing audience. The new schedule reflects the next phase of our programming strategy which is to roll-out a more diverse schedule that will expand our audience to include younger viewers. \"
\"thericker\", in response to the firestorm of backlash about the VG block, said something almost identical, if not slightly reworded, not 2 weeks ago.
Back a year ago, I was wrong to say that the GSN of the time (June 2002) was worse than the Dark Period. Now, it's worse. I looked at a schedule from the time, and, swapping out the then-originals for the now-originals...I'd love to have that sched ($20K Pyramid, $25K Pyramid, all 4 seasons of $100K Pyramid, 80s J!, Chain Reaction, Go!, TPiR, TJW, TTD, Treasure Hunt, Gong Show, need I continue?)
Cronin should have been fired in 2002. Belinkoff never should have been hired. I got no problem with Bob Boden
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[quote name=\'Seth Thrasher\' date=\'Jul 14 2003, 11:28 AM\'] It's Uncle Penguin's Compare Current GSN to the Dark Period Show (Episode 3....check ATGS for Ep 1, and ezBoard for Ep 2)
I present a quote from 1997, and notes relating to something recent.
1997: From a form letter from GSN re: the removal of all non-TPiR/FF94 G-T shows
It is time to advance to the next level by offering more variations on the game show product to keep pace with our rapidly growing audience. The new schedule reflects the next phase of our programming strategy which is to roll-out a more diverse schedule that will expand our audience to include younger viewers. "
"thericker", in response to the firestorm of backlash about the VG block, said something almost identical, if not slightly reworded, not 2 weeks ago.
Back a year ago, I was wrong to say that the GSN of the time (June 2002) was worse than the Dark Period. Now, it's worse. I looked at a schedule from the time, and, swapping out the then-originals for the now-originals...I'd love to have that sched ($20K Pyramid, $25K Pyramid, all 4 seasons of $100K Pyramid, 80s J!, Chain Reaction, Go!, TPiR, TJW, TTD, Treasure Hunt, Gong Show, need I continue?)
Cronin should have been fired in 2002. Belinkoff never should have been hired. I got no problem with Bob Boden [/quote]
Yeah. It's Dark Period II coming up. When's the renewal time for the G-T's? I got a hunch they're gonna be gone soon. thericker is welcome to continue his position.
Damn......the last three days at GSN have been weird.....
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Yeah. It's Dark Period II coming up. When's the renewal time for the G-T's? I got a hunch they're gonna be gone soon. thericker is welcome to continue his position.
I thought the Perfessor reported a while back that it had been renewed already.
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I guess I'll toss my opinion in the till as well...
First, a little background on me...
The year was 1989. I was only about one, but I was quite a smart baby. I could talk, I could walk (Well, waddle), I could read, but most important to me, I could press buttons, I could count to 20, I could tell time with a digital clock, and I knew how to turn on the TV. I really crashed into my first game show. One day I was playing around with the remote, and found a show called \"Double Dare\". This type of show was very new and foreign to me, and I really loved it. After the show was over, I really wanted more. I looked around like crazy to find more shows like this, and through about 3 days I crashed into Family Feud, Press Your Luck (On USA), Scrabble, TPIR, and A TON of others. It was always like that, even now. I've been singing the praise of Game Shows all through my life, and through most of that singing, people have been plugging their ears. I actually CRIED on my first day of Kindergarten because I was going to miss TPIR. (God, I feel stupid saying that) Around 1997, during the credits of Jeopardy!, I seen what looked like a godsend. A in credits promo for Game Show Network. (I've already posted that story in another post). I FINALLY Got GSN in the early spring of 2002, and it was real good. From Body Language to Super Password, I was very hooked. Unfortunately, all good things had to come to an end, as classic after classic was axed for new (and for the most part, OK originals)
I always assured myself that no matter how bad of times are on GSN, there would never stray away from the Game Show genre. Then the January Sched of 2003 came. LOVE CONNECTION? I remembered Love Connection from my childhood, it was one of those dating shows, now I thought it was a OK program, BUT IT NEVER HAS BEEN, OR NEVER WILL BE A GAME SHOW! Then the Naturally Stoned announcement was finally verified. I wasn't too mad, because it at the very least loosely related to game shows. Then the video game announcement came. It was extremely heart breaking. To me, it was the near equilivent of losing a family member. My favorite television channel was beginning to go down the toilet (If it wasn‘t already).
I'm flashing the GSN apocalypse card. It's either going to do great, and pull in gamer related programming, or hideously, and lead to the death of the channel. Game Show Network for quite a while made me the happiest person on the face of the earth. Now I know that I will never feel that same feeling again, thanks to this programming.
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At least, for thosse of us who get the channel, there's Nick GAS still. GSN of old, it ain't, but it's good for what it is (Double Dare, Finders Keepers, the list continues)
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I'm flashing the GSN apocalypse card. It's either going to do great, and pull in gamer related programming, or hideously, and lead to the death of the channel.
I've really been trying to stay out of this and let you guys vent, but that statement, in a nutshell, is exactly what's wrong with this entire thread. EVERY time GSN makes an announcement that means one less precious rerun will be on the schedule, you guys \"flash the GSN apocalypse card\". I've seen people predicting the death of the channel ever since the channel's been on, and the simple fact is that it's stronger than it's ever been. This is one minor programming change, a lot more minor than most, and you're treating it like the end of civilization as we know it.
In the shortest post ever, SplitSecond made a great analogy between what's happening now and what happened to fX. That channel started around the same time as GSN with a lot of 60s and 70s reruns and clever original stuff in between. It's now something completely different. I liked the original, and I enjoyed seeing old shows that I hadn't seen in a long time, but life -- and cable programming -- moves on.
GSN is moving on. Like it, don't like it, whatever. But don't treat it like it's the end of the world, or even the end of GSN. 'Cause it's just not.
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If GSN would just bring back TJW and leave B&WO alone, I could care less what they did with the rest of their schedule.
To me, it's a shame I'll never get to see some of those rare classics (I got the channel in 2000). A number of you have at least gotten that chance, whether it was through GSN or actually watching when they were on-the-air. But as was said, life goes on.
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Matt O:
In the shortest post ever, SplitSecond made a great analogy between what's happening now and what happened to fX. That channel started around the same time as GSN with a lot of 60s and 70s reruns and clever original stuff in between. It's now something completely different. I liked the original, and I enjoyed seeing old shows that I hadn't seen in a long time, but life -- and cable programming -- moves on.
Me:
Yeah, and we should be thankful that the \"180-turn\" of fX didn't cause so much whining like the changes at MTV. I don't recall fX ever boasting themselves as \"The Rerun Station\" whereas MTV will forever be burned in the minds of those who grew up in the Martha Quinn era as \"Music Television\" (read: music videos, kids...that's all we'll ever air...ever). I guess the older MTV viewers are disgusted about the lack of \"truth in advertising:\" just about any message board on the 'Net has someone crying \"where are the music videos\" when some non-video programming on the channel is discussed.
I was curious about and even liked the old fX. To my young eyes, they were a rare example of a \"happy-go-lucky\" channel. The bright box logo. The NYC flatiron studios and their neat programming scattered throughout the day. BACKCHAT~! (Before I had Internet access, Backchat was a cool show for trivia. I didn't even know a \"In Living Color Dossier\" book existed before I watched it.). I'd stopped watching fX before its current incarnation started though. I don't weep and throw my keyboard at the sight of the current fX logo. There'll be always better things to do than reminisce about \"Nanny & the Professor,\" \"The Ghost & Mrs. Muir,\" and \"Wonder Woman\" reruns or complain about the mutilation of \"Breakfast Time\" upon moving to the Fox network.
I'd have more to say, but I'll hold back. Hopefully, my thoughts didn't make me a whiny \"original mission statement/status quo\" zealot.
Clarence
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In the shortest post ever, SplitSecond made a great analogy between what's happening now and what happened to fX.
I strive for pith.
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[quote name=\'SplitSecond\' date=\'Jul 14 2003, 10:44 PM\']
In the shortest post ever, SplitSecond made a great analogy between what's happening now and what happened to fX.
I strive for pith. [/quote]
Perhapth you thould find a bathroom, then. ;)
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You say you're buying the first round, right? ;)
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[quote name=\'SplitSecond\' date=\'Jul 15 2003, 12:18 AM\'] You say you're buying the first round, right? ;) [/quote]
Well, I'm beginning to think \"renting\" is the more appropriate term in this case. :)
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[quote name=\'ilb4ever2000\' date=\'Jul 14 2003, 11:48 PM\'] If GSN would just bring back TJW and leave B&WO alone, I could care less what they did with the rest of their schedule.
To me, it's a shame I'll never get to see some of those rare classics (I got the channel in 2000). A number of you have at least gotten that chance, whether it was through GSN or actually watching when they were on-the-air. But as was said, life goes on. [/quote]
What do you mean leave it \"alone\"? At least they give it to you; personally I wouldn't mind seeing it get axed.
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You know, I don't think this upcoming video game block will be the death of GSN. For me, it'll just mean that I'll be watching it less. If they get 'Price' back, great. If they don't, I can pop in one of the tapes I have full of 'Price' from the \"first run\". I worried about the GT shows not coming back during the dark period, but TPIR was on all the time and my tapes were rolling. I probably did more taping during that time than before it started (TPIR for me and $20 K Pyramid for someone to tape trade with).
I remember all the *two* episodes of \"NYSI\" aired before it was pulled. Oh well, I have a few eps from \"the old days\" as well as eps from the '89 CBS run. I have enough tapes to wax poetic about the way it used to be. Unless a miracle happens and \"Concentration\" shows up sometime, my taping as well as GSN watching will be decreasing. But then, there's my renewed interest in \"Price Is Right\"...
Long live the TiVo!
JOSH
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[quote name=\'matchgame\' date=\'Jul 17 2003, 06:12 AM\'] I remember all the *two* episodes of "NYSI" aired before it was pulled. [/quote]
AHEM!
They aired *four* eps, lol.
My GSN viewership has been gradually decreasing for a while now anyway. This just makes it easier to avoid the channel
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AHEM! They aired *four* eps, lol.
And I have all four on some tape somewhere...
(needs to figure out what shows are on what tapes soon)
Josh
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Copied and pasted from a post I made at GSN in response to a post about the Cronin interview:
Originally posted by tattooed
This is why I think many of you have been adversed to Cram and Funny Money, and even reality/game shows: They're all unconventional, and it's driving you up the wall. You like your traditional game show setup, in a traditional studio, with your traditional host (generally male) in a suit and tie.
I rather like Funny Money, FYI. It's enjoyable. Cram is not.
I detect a bit of bitterness over there not being a lot more female emcees in that statement. May I remind everyone that there have been female emcees since 1949 when Arlene Francis hosted Blind Date? Hm....
\"Game-related programming\" isn't just the upcoming video game block. This also includes documentaries like Big Bucks (which got GSN its highest ratings ever, thank you very much) and stuff like Naturally Stoned (which, let's face it, was an experiment, as the video game block will be).
Okay, I stuck my foot in my mouth in a way. BB: TPYLS and NS were game SHOW related. Simply GAME related can include said game SHOW related programming, but at the same time everything else [Game **** among it]
I bolded part of that for a reason, as if you couldn't tell. This is exactly what GSN needs to do, like it or not, to move forward. You may not like what exactly they do, but let's face it; many of those moves are inevitable. He does NOT want to go solely down the video game path; it's just a piece of the big picture. But some of you here don't seem to get that yet.
But look at it again--he says \"Classic game shows,\" followed by 4 examples of original programming. Where's the 50/50 there? And he wraps it up by saying he wants to \"stay true to his genre.\" Bullcrap. If it's called \"Game Show Network,\" is the genre video games? No. I wonder what the Game Show Network's genre is....
I think those three shows mentioned by name because they're the most popular of the classics on the network. They're on the schedule more often than any of the other classics--and even more often than all of the current originals! I don't think Cronin doesn't care about the other stuff he has; he simply mentioned the ones that are the most popular.
I think exactly the opposite. If Cronin cared about his other stuff, why hasn't any of it been shown since Fleming left and even earlier than that? It would have been nice to dig out some \"Hollywood Connection\" for the Buddy Hackett tribute. No reason whatsoever he couldn't have done that.
So will many of us here.
TPiR is the only thing I agree with in his long chain of crap. God knows he'll find a way to screw it up anyway........
I hope, in regards to Lingo, that the format doesn't really change all that much. I think the main qualm was always with the dollar amounts awarded to the winners, and the fact that the runners-up get no cash whatsoever. I can tolerate that for other shows, but not in the case of Lingo.
Extra cash means nothing to the MTV kids he wants to grab. I said this to someone in a PM and I'll say it here: I'll bet they're gonna have Icey holding the balls next season. Anyone remember Winnie from the old days? Icey is the new Winnie: all over the network, but not serving any purpose.
I do understand (somewhat) what was meant in regards to the 1980s version of the game. It lasted six years, sure (and from what I've read, it came back briefly in 1993--same format and all); but if it didn't do well, it didn't do well. It couldn't exactly be helped. (I'd still love to see that version, though. I only vaguely remember seeing it when I was younger.)
If it didn't do well, it wouldn't have lasted six years.
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Part two of above post.
Memo to Cronin: I'm sure there are some girls who are into video games out there, too, you know.
He probably figures he can get more ratings by slapping Icey all over the place and not wasting time developing a way to get girls to watch.
This whole thing is bull. When GSN can be called anything *but* GSN, call me. It's gonna be soon.
I leave you with a quote by Jm J Bullock from the finale of The New Hollywood Squares that applies very well here:
\"Welcome to game show hell everybody!\"
And I know EXACTLY what he means when he says \"GSN apocolypse (sp)\" GSN will end and a completely different beast will rise from its ashes. One that airs nothing but video games, people watching other people gamble in casinos, and reality shows of the piss-poor kind. Enjoy your G42.
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But look at it again--he says \"Classic game shows,\" followed by 4 examples of original programming. Where's the 50/50 there? And he wraps it up by saying he wants to \"stay true to his genre.\" Bullcrap. If it's called \"Game Show Network,\" is the genre video games? No. I wonder what the Game Show Network's genre is....
Which is why they're gradually calling it GSN. And that 50/50 crap was thrown out the window a long time ago.
I think exactly the opposite. If Cronin cared about his other stuff, why hasn't any of it been shown since Fleming left and even earlier than that? It would have been nice to dig out some \"Hollywood Connection\" for the Buddy Hackett tribute. No reason whatsoever he couldn't have done that.
Do you honestly think they would show that?
I say in less than 5 years, we're going to see a totally different network. They feel they have to make these changes, so let them. I don't watch much GSN anymore anyways.
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[quote name=\'PeterMarshallFan\' date=\'Jul 17 2003, 01:55 PM\'] It would have been nice to dig out some "Hollywood Connection" for the Buddy Hackett tribute. No reason whatsoever he couldn't have done that.
[/quote]
Maybe he cares about his viewers? Not to put too fine a point on it, but Hollywood Connection sucked. A lot.
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No offence, but the October 1997-April 1998 dark period didn't affect me. I don't mind it a bit.
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[quote name=\'PeterMarshallFan\' date=\'Jul 17 2003, 03:56 PM\'] "Welcome to game show hell everybody!"
[/quote]
All we need now is for Winnie, the Green Ball, and other symbols of the days gone by to start singing \"Happy Trails to You\"
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Yeah...I miss the green ball. Personally, I liked the first guy who played it more.
A sign of how lame some of this is: anyone notice their selection of video for this week's Celebrity Cram promo? Watch the part where Icey goes \"What you talking about, Graham?\" and keep an eye on her arms. Ah-ha. I wonder why they chose that clip........
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[quote name=\'PeterMarshallFan\' date=\'Jul 18 2003, 06:36 PM\'] A sign of how lame some of this is: anyone notice their selection of video for this week's Celebrity Cram promo? Watch the part where Icey goes "What you talking about, Graham?" and keep an eye on her arms. Ah-ha. I wonder why they chose that clip........ [/quote]
Happy Trails to you
Till we meet again
Happy trails to you
Until we meet again
Happy trails to you
Keep smilin' until then
Sing it with me now!
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Happy Trails to you
Till we meet again
Happy trails to you
Until we meet again
Happy trails to you
Keep smilin' until then
GONG!
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[quote name=\'Seth Thrasher\' date=\'Jul 18 2003, 07:07 PM\'] Happy Trails to you
Till we meet again
Happy trails to you
Until we meet again
Happy trails to you
Keep smilin' until then [/quote]
[Simon Cowell]That was dreadful. Write down your vocal coach's phone number and give it to a good lawyer.[/SC]
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First time poster, but I'll dive into the deep end...
I got GSN just as I moved into the dorms for the first time in the fall of 2000. Up until then I had grown up on TPiR, Classic Concentration, and just about anything USA aired in their game block all the way back when they would do these daily \"tests\" that would cause problems with our cable box just before Hot Potato. (I have an odd memory for those things).
I can't say I'm not looking forward to at least seeing what the video game block will be, because I do have an interest in both games and game shows. But previous shows I've seen on the topic have stunk, and I pray that, if the show bombs, it's yanked off the air faster than the plug was pulled on some of their poor attempts at originals in 2000-01. I just get the feeling people would rather play video games vs. watch programming about them, unless it's a game show with video games being played as part of the show.
I did not get to see the glory days of TPiR on GSN (Cronin says he's trying to get it back - could we be so lucky?), so I can't vouch for that, but I can say I've been pretty happy with what I've seen overall the past few years. Seeing Hot Potato again (and getting to tape it this time around!) was a thrill. Blockbusters is a show that I'm glad I now have seen. Same goes for Match Game, the original Dawson Feuds (used to always watch the Combs' ones), etc. I've enjoyed the originals overall as well, although some of the gimmicks have gotten old.
What bothers me is half the originals they air are shows currently in production today or were recently. Match Game? There was a season in '98, and it's a matter of time before they try again. Feud? New version on the air. Pyramid? Same. And of course, the Links/Greeds that are too new to be \"classics.\" Too much repetition. And seeing the classics overall just enforces how weak game show remakes have been the past few years (except Whammy!, which has retained its charm enough).
I agree they should cycle other shows in. Sadly though, they probably don't get enough ratings on those, but I love whoever suggested the early morning block (9 am-12 pm).
Well, at least new Lingo eps. are coming. That'll make me happy :) But I do remember reading something about how the owners of the channel wanted a 24-hour interactive network. How can you be interactive with a video game news show? Maybe the sky won't end up falling, and maybe we'll see good documentaries along the lines of \"Big Bucks\" more often, mixed in. Wishful thinking? I hope not.
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That was my idea for the morning block, FYI.
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Well, I'll echo the comments of a lot of the folks here. I used to have GSN on for hours and hours a day, but now? B+WO faithfully plus the occasional Whammy are pretty much it. I love Pyramid, but they've re-run the same episodes into the ground so much I know the results of every episode.
Obviously I missed something, what's this stuff about video games? Is there a thread or news story about it you can point me to? It sounds ominous.
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GSN will have to come up with new material to prevent it from dying like radio's tight-playlist niche music formats. Re-runs kill. What would be the dream to hope for is that somehow, deals could be struck with certain producers to allow for fresh versions of certain classic shows to be created (an example could be Play Your Hunch, because celebrities would not be needed), blended in with new ideas. If done right, contemporary versions of some classics could reach both ends of the age spectrum at a price the network could afford. It would seem to be a win-win for both the networks and producers.
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Here's what I think about the whole feeling of GSN not being what it used to be.
Until just a few years ago, nobody really even had GSN. Now, it's on almost every cable system, and with satellites growing popular, tons of people are viewing GSN in their homes.
Back then, GSN was a very unprofessional and unpopular cable network. They had an amazing vault of shows. We saw shows like \"Go\" and \"Jackpot\" which we never thought we would see on the air again. Around this same time, the channel was experimenting with original shows in front of virtual sets. Cheesy shows like \"Super Decades\" and \"Trivia Track.\" Ever since \"Hollywood Showdown,\" the originals have gotten better and more elaborate.
Now here's the problem. GSN has their originals, plus they have their few classics that get good ratings. Where is there time to show the classics like \"The Gong Show\" or \"Double Talk\"? Unless GSN2 or GSN Classic come out, or some type of block where random rare shows are aired, I don't think we'll be seeing these for quite some time.
Rich Cronin has been doing great things for the network. The popularity has grown extremely. I feel like he is now constantly either working at new originals, or trying to get other shows onto the network. He did a great job getting Let's Make A Deal, Press Your Luck and The Hollywood Squares to the network, but where are all the other classic shows like The Gong Show, Tic Tac Dough and all of them?
He's constantly caring about what shows can be added to the vault. Wow we have Weakest Link, Twenty-One and Greed. Now let's air all their originals to death, Match Game and Family Feud as much as possible, plus some of these newer \"classics,\" and what do we get? The type of channel that appeals to the people of today.
We have to realize that not everyone who watches GSN is a game show lover. Nobody's gonna wanna watch a show like \"Bumper Stumpers.\" However if someone sees Weakest Link, it's gonna appeal to them. It's a show most people know of, there you go.
Well, I've had my word in all of this, sorry if it's too long. Hey, I feel like a GSN2 could be coming soon.
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The thing is, as has been stated a million times here, you can't run your network on nothing but 20 year old game shows. Yes, it would be nice, but GSN has to make money to stay above water, hence the crop of originals. Just the same, MTV can't make money on music videos 24/7, hence the crop of (crappy) original programming.
The originals a tolerated evil. My problem is with buying shows that are only a few years old and/or have too few episodes.
DO we really NEED to see the same 40+ episodes of Greed every weekend. Or the Weakest Link episodes that have already been run to death on NBC AND PAX?
And why buy 21????
Why waste money on this crap instead by trying to buy the rights to older programs that people actually liked.
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[quote name=\'Rhudson765\' date=\'Aug 25 2003, 08:35 AM\'] Why waste money on this crap instead by trying to buy the rights to older programs that people actually liked. [/quote]
Because they are trying to attract an audience OTHER than the same insignificant chunk of die-hard game show fans that don't amount to a hill of beans in terms of an actual rating?
Just a guess.
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[quote name=\'clemon79\' date=\'Aug 25 2003, 11:49 AM\'] [quote name=\'Rhudson765\' date=\'Aug 25 2003, 08:35 AM\'] Why waste money on this crap instead by trying to buy the rights to older programs that people actually liked. [/quote]
Because they are trying to attract an audience OTHER than the same insignificant chunk of die-hard game show fans that don't amount to a hill of beans in terms of an actual rating?
Just a guess. [/quote]
He's got a good point though.....\"Twenty-One\" looks like a poor investment in particular. IMO, if that marathon even turns a profit it'll be a small one. I just can't see the 21 marathon making mucho bucks for GSN.
Maybe it's a stepping stone to the big prize, Concentration....[fat chance, but I can dream]
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I'm thinking they didn't pay that much for 21. And PeterMarshallFan may have something there...maybe this is a stepping stone to get more NBC shows....
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Has the theory been advanced here that the 21 marathon was some sort of bargaining chip to get Gurin on board for a 3rd season of Lingo... or just to grease his pockets a little extra?
(For that matter, has GSN ever officially announced that this marathon was legit?)
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[quote name=\'ChrisLambert!\' date=\'Aug 27 2003, 06:51 AM\'] Has the theory been advanced here that the 21 marathon was some sort of bargaining chip to get Gurin on board for a 3rd season of Lingo... or just to grease his pockets a little extra?
(For that matter, has GSN ever officially announced that this marathon was legit?) [/quote]
THey haven't announced the Twenty One marathon as yet, but I\"m betting we start seeing promos on Labor Day this Monday, as it is scheduled to air September 20th or 21st IIRC.