Wednesday, May 16, 2007

Five Hundred and Sixteen Dollars Thirty Two Cents*


Don't ask me what triggered this little trip down memory lane, it just seemed to happen.

The wind of change was in the air back then and we all shared the feeling that there was hope for the future. And what better standard bearer for change than Chuck Barris and the totally mad Gong Show.
Crass? it certainly was, and coupled with irreverence it went on to be must watch prime time viewing.
So I have had a root through Youtube and have come up with a few clips, if you want to see some of the more bizarre acts you know where to search.

So first I give you the act of acts, these two babes brought the house down, I remember them like it was yesterday, as I do the comments of the panel. I can't honestly say if Phylis Diller just didn't want to acknowledge what she was witnessing, I think she must have been, nobody is that sheltered.
Jamie Farr's embarrassment was all too apparent, but Jaye P Morgan hit the nail right on the head. Jaye P was great, she had a slut quotient of ten plus, a sexy dame, and yes I would have.
Gong Show
Remember this was prime time early evening main stream TV, wonder how it would go down today?



One of the better acts here.Gong Show Juggler Hillary Carlip



And a brief glimpse of a very young David Letterman.David Letterman on The Gong Show chuck barris late show
Catch the bow tie and the tux!


A few bits and bobs someone has strung together.Gong Show Movie, Best Bits Pt.1


And lastly but not least Gene the dancing machine. Having trawled few a few clips I had quite forgotten how Chucky used to dance away in the corner if there was any bit of music playing.
Gene Gene The Dancing Machine

* $516.32 daily prize money, probably the union minimum for performers.

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