tv game shows - the pbs series of TV game shows

Morning game shows beloved by soap fans

By DANA BLOCK
1/20/2008

PBS has been airing installments of a landmark documentary this past month titled “Pioneers of Television,” about the innovators of sitcoms, late night talk shows and variety and game shows. These fascinating stories feature archives and never-before-seen clips and interviews. Some of America’s first celebrities – including Dick Van Dyke, Andy Griffith, Betty White (Ann, “The Bold and the Beautiful”) – are also featured.

On Wednesday from 7-8 p.m., the history of game shows will be presented. Like soaps, most of you have fond memories of game shows. Curled up on the couch with the flu was always more comforting with “The Price Is Right” on the tube.

The last PBS installment, “Game Shows,” showcases the evolution of the genre, from its debut on radio through its pinnacle in the 1960s. Bob Barker talks about the early days of “The Price Is Right,” while the late Merv Griffin tells viewers how he created “Wheel of Fortune” and “Jeopardy.” “Let’s Make a Deal” host Monty Hall recounts how he himself went from rags to riches.

Back in the land of soaps, casting changes were announced during the holiday season. Grayson McCouch is leaving “As the World Turns” in January. One rumor is that when his

contract was up he was asked to take a pay cut and refused, so Dusty Donovan will soon be filling out a change of address card at the Oakdale Post Office (if they don’t kill him off).

There have been multiple postings on Internet message boards that the role will be recast, but other fans speculated that the rumor was false. My vote is to bring back Brian Bloom, who originated the role, especially if they ever plan to pair him up with Lily (Martha Byrne) again. It would be nice to see all the original players in the Lily/Dusty/Holden triangle.

Maybe they can polish off the set for Lucinda’s stables again?

A rumor that is sure to get fans up in arms is that Trent Dawson’s (Henry, “ATWT”) contract is up soon, and he might not re-sign.

My advice to the producers is to take the salary left over from McCouch and give it to Dawson.

He deserves it, and it will make the fans happy if he stays.

In the off-screen romance department, “Guiding Light’s” Gina Tognoni (Dinah) is surely sporting a lovely gem on her left hand, as she is set to tie the knot with her beau, Joseph Chiarello.

“One Life to Live” co-stars David Fumero (Cristian) and Melissa Gallo (Adriana) were married Dec. 9. Melissa has changed her last name to Fumero but is set to exit “OLTL” at the end of January.

So far David Fumero is staying put and has no plans to leave.