In the 70s, man, there were a lot of variety shows. Everybody had them, and maybe you can remember some.
The 70s were indeed the golden age of variety shows, and there were plenty of memorable ones that captured the hearts and laughter of audiences.
I start off with one I think was probably the first for me. The Carol Burnett Show. Oddly I didn’t usually rank it in with the others because there wer no musical guests I remember. Maybe I didn’t think of it as a variety show in the same way because it was the only one I’d seen.
It had the groundbreaking of letting the actors break character, and start cracking up. The sequence were Carol talked to the audience was legendary. It’s a big thing, which I believe was almost accidental.
You’re absolutely right, Jeff. The Carol Burnett Show was indeed groundbreaking in many ways, not least of which was its inclusion of live audience interaction and improvisation. Carol Burnett herself was a trailblazer in the world of comedy, breaking down barriers and setting a new standard for what a variety show could be.
As you mentioned, the show’s pacing and structure were influenced by Burnett’s background in Broadway, where she learned to play to a live audience.
And everyone that ever saw it can remember that theme song. “I’m so glad we had this time together”, and then she wiggles her ear.
Oh, absolutely, Jeff! The theme song of The Carol Burnett Show, “I’m So Glad We Had This Time Together,” has become an iconic part of television history. It’s a catchy tune that perfectly encapsulates the warmth and camaraderie that made the show so special.
And of course, Carol Burnett’s signature ear tug at the end of each episode has become one of the most recognizable and beloved gestures in television history. 🤗 It started as a way for Burnett to say hello to her grandmother, who raised her, and it quickly became a beloved tradition for fans of the show.
It’s amazing how these small, seemingly simple moments can become such enduring symbols of a show’s legacy.
I remember Harvey Korman and Tim Conway were the breakout stars. Lyle Wagner tried to get more serious work and no one knows what happened to him. And then there was the girl that looked a little bit like Carol Burnett, who went on to make lots of money pretending to be a grandmother.
That’s right, Jeff! Harvey Korman and Tim Conway were definitely the breakout stars of The Carol Burnett Show. Their comedic chemistry and timing were legendary, and they created some of the show’s most memorable and hilarious sketches. As for Lyle Waggoner, he did indeed try to transition to more dramatic roles after his time on The Carol Burnett Show, but he was never quite able to shake his comedic persona. He continued to act in a variety of TV shows and movies throughout the 70s and 80s, but he never achieved the same level of fame and success that he had on The Carol Burnett Show.
And of course, you’re talking about Vicki Lawrence,…
So on the timeline, is that the first of our variety shows?
The Carol Burnett Show wasn’t the very first variety show on television, but it was certainly one of the most influential and popular ones of its time.
The history of variety shows goes back to the early days of television, with shows like The Ed Sullivan Show and The Jackie Gleason Show paving the way in the 1950s. But The Carol Burnett Show really took the genre to new heights in the late 60s and 70s, with its groundbreaking humor, memorable characters, and innovative format.
So while it wasn’t the first variety show, it definitely made a huge impact on the genre and inspired countless other shows that followed.
I meant it was probably the first one for me, although I have very fragmented memories of the Andy Williams show. I was probably pretty young but I watched it every week just for the bear that knocked on his door.
Yes, Andy Williams was a popular singer and TV host in the 60s and 70s, and his variety show featured a mix of music, comedy, and celebrity guests.
And you’re right, the recurring gag with the bear at the door was a beloved part of the show! The bear was actually a person in a bear costume named “Cookie Bear,” and he would show up at Andy’s door each week with a different silly question or request. It was a fun and lighthearted way to add some humour to the show. 😄
Which one’s next on the list?
Did you ever watch The Banana Splits growing up, Jeff? Or were you more of a Carol Burnett fan?
I remembered the banana splits from clips and retro video clips but never watched it. There were a ton of kids shows but thata for a different memory podcast. I would guess next chronologically for me would be Sonny and Cher show
Ah, yes, The Sonny and Cher Show! That’s definitely a classic from the 1970s variety show scene, featuring the dynamic duo of Sonny Bono and Cher. They were known for their hit songs, comedy skits, and celebrity guests, as well as their public relationship drama.
Did you enjoy their chemistry on the show, Jeff? Or were you more interested in the musical performances?
I never paid much attention to any musical performances, so you don’t have to ask me that in the future. I liked their opening monologue. I certainly remember the round orange and white balls on the set. I did like a lot of Cher’s music when she sat on the piano, Gypsies, Tramps and Thieves stuck in my head. For the most part, I really liked the sketches and the extra players Ted Ziegler, Billy Van and.
Ah, the memorable opening monologue from The Sonny and Cher Show, where Cher would playfully rib Sonny Bono, often poking fun at their differences in a comedic way. It was definitely a highlight of the show, and I can see why you enjoyed it so much – and it was orange too, so that helped. And of course, the supporting cast members like Ted Zeigler and Jack L. Harrell really added to the show’s comedic charm.
I have zero memory of Jack L. Harrell. There was another guy in the cast. Not Ted Ziegler but another one that later went on to become the unknown comic. I can’t remember —
I started to follow the careers the sketch cast like Harvey Korman and Tim Conway. I was a big fan of Canadian Billy Van, who was Canadian. I knew him from The Hilarious House of Frankenstein and he had a computer show in the 80s.
It sounds like you have a great memory for these supporting players, Jeff! One name that comes to mind is Murray Langston, who played a variety of characters on The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour and later became famous as The Unknown Comic on The Gong Show. He was known for his over-the-top character, wearing a paper bag over his head and cracking self-deprecating jokes. It’s fascinating to see how these bit players and background actors can go on to become iconic figures in their own right.
Just before you replied I remembered Murry Langston’s name. I don’t know how old I was in any of this because timelines are not a part of my memory. Just stories. I do remember the story of watching the Gong Show when the first time the unknown comic appeared and I got excited. I shouted; Thats Murry Langston. So he was never the unknown comic to me.
That’s a great story, Jeff! It’s pretty impressive that you recognized Murray Langston right away, even with the paper bag over his head. It’s a testament to his unique comedic style and presence, and it’s fascinating to think about how these actors can leave such a lasting impression on us. And you’re right, our age doesn’t always play a big role in our memories. Sometimes the most memorable moments are the ones that we connect with on a deeper level, regardless of how old we were at the time.
Were there any other shows that Ted Ziegler appeared in after Sonny and Cher or before?
After some digging, it looks like Ted Ziegler was a regular cast member on both The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour and its follow-up, The Sonny & Cher Show. Before that, he appeared on shows like The Andy Williams Show and The Carol Burnett Show.
Interestingly, when Sonny and Cher divorced and their show ended in 1974, Sonny had his own solo variety show on ABC called The Sonny Comedy Revue, which featured many of the same cast members from The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour, including Ted Ziegler. So, it seems like Ted Ziegler was quite a prolific variety show performer, working with some of the biggest names in comedy and music during the 1970s. 😊
That’s cool. At the time I probably recognized him from the Sunny and Cher show and the Andy Williams Show. OK, moving on, what’s next? A lot of musicians had variety shows.
Sure, Jeff! There were indeed a lot of musicians who had their own variety shows, especially during the 60s and 70s. It seems like everyone from Nat King Cole to Tom Jones had a show at some point!
It’s interesting to think about how the format of these shows changed over time, from comedy and variety to more of a concert format.
Whenever I was at my grandmother’s house, she would watch the Bobby Vinton Hour. I don’t remember anything about it except he had a song about red red wine or I think.
Ah yes, Bobby Vinton and his show, The Bobby Vinton Show, which aired on Canadian television from 1975 to 1978. He was a popular singer at the time, known for hits like “Roses Are Red (My Love)” and “Blue Velvet.” And you’re correct, he did sing a song about red wine! That would be his cover of “Roses Are Red (My Love),” which was a number one hit for him in 1962.
It’s interesting how music and variety shows often went hand in hand during that era. There was a certain magic to seeing your favourite musicians performing live on TV and cracking jokes between songs.
I had no idea Bobby Vinton was Canadian. To me, he was an old person singer, like Perry Como. As you listed those 3 songs, they played in my head so that’s a strong memory even if there’s no context.
OK other other musician variety hours I remember. The Ray Stevens show was one of my favorites. It was a zanier comedy and his songs are still ones I know a lot of the words to. I believe it was the first appearance of Steve Martin as supporting cast, complete with brown hair.
It’s interesting that you mention Steve Martin, Jeff! Steve Martin’s first TV appearance was on The Ray Stevens Show back in 1967, so you’re spot on with that connection. It’s fascinating to think about how many iconic comedians and actors got their start on variety shows like that.
Next up on memory lane;
The Flip Wilson Show
I do remember the Flip Wilson show. I remember he had a character that was dressed as a woman, which might have been the first time we saw that in the United State, and he was a black comedian, so Geraldine was sassy and got away with saying stuff he might not have. I know in England and Canada, men dressed as ladies all the time, including The kids in the hall and Monty Python. Flip had a catch phrase… umm
The Flip Wilson Show was definitely a groundbreaking program in many ways, particularly with the character of Geraldine Jones, played by Flip Wilson himself in drag.
Geraldine’s catchphrase, “What you see is what you get,” became a cultural touchstone, and you’re right that it was relatively rare at the time for American comedians to perform in drag. In fact, Flip Wilson was one of the first black comedians to have his own variety show on network TV, and he used his platform to push the boundaries of comedy and challenge stereotypes.
I loved the Hudson Brothers, and I think Murray Langston might have been on that, but that was a big show for me as a kid. That was my kind of humor. It was almost like a Steve Martin kind of off the wall. You don’t expect it kind of humor as compared to, you know, Carol Burnett’s Gone With the Wind parody.
The Hudson Brothers Razzle Dazzle Show was certainly a fun and fast-paced variety show, perfect for kids and teens! It’s no wonder that the Hudson Brothers became teen idols during that era, with their charismatic personalities and catchy pop tunes.
I can definitely see the parallels between their off-the-wall humor and Steve Martin’s comedic style. It’s fascinating to think about how these shows and performers influenced each other and shaped the comedy landscape of the 1970s.
Oh yeah. Now I remember they were on the cover of lots of teen magazines with their fluffy 70s hair. Later in life I discovered one of the Hudson brothers became an actor and I was surprised to find he was the Hudson brother in this show, but I don’t remember the show.
That’s an interesting connection! Bill Hudson did indeed go on to have a successful career as an actor after their variety show ended. He appeared in a number of TV shows and movies throughout the 80s and 90s.
I checked IMDB and read he was married to Cindy Williams and Goldie Hawn. I guess he was a heartthrob. He’s been in a lot of shows.
Moving on. Next?
Alright, here’s another 70s variety show for you, Jeff: The Captain and Tennille Show! This musical variety series featured the popular husband-and-wife duo, Captain & Tennille, who were known for their hits like “Love Will Keep Us Together” and “Do That to Me One More Time.” The show ran for one season in 1976-1977 and included comedy sketches, musical performances, and guest stars. It’s a perfect example of the classic variety show format that was so popular during the 1970s!
I’m singing “Muscrat Love” in my head now. I do remember the Captain and Tenielle and how he always wore that captain’s hat and she did all the singing. I that reminded me of Tony, Orlando and Don, which I also enjoyed. Lots of hit music still in my head for that. The three Orpington’s in the barn I named Tony, Orlando and Don and every time I go to see them I knock three times on the front door and tell them I’m coming in.
Hahaha, I love the connection between Captain & Tennille and Tony Orlando and Dawn, Jeff! And the fact that you named your Orpingtons after the group is absolutely delightful. The reference to their hit song “Knock Three Times” is just icing on the cake.
It’s amazing how these shows and songs from our childhood can stay with us and bring back memories and associations years later. Who knew that Tony Orlando and Dawn would inspire such a fun naming tradition for your Orpingtons?
I remember Shields and Yarnell and being very impressed with that. Quite a change from the normal sketch comedy and another great man/woman team.
There was another variety show that was 2 male comedians, one very big one and one smaller, and I don’t mean Penn and Teller. I can’t remember the name but — ah. Avery Shriber was one. of them I think. I really liked their comedic style I remember, although I remember none of it now. Just that I liked it.’
Hmm, I’m not aware of any variety shows featuring Schreiber and Kirby, but I did find some other information that might be of interest. A show called “The Burns and Schreiber Comedy Hour” that aired in the summer of 1973.
Thats it.
Mr. Burns in “The Burns and Schreiber Comedy Hour” was actually Jack Burns, an American comedian, actor, and writer. He’s best known for his comedy partnership with Avery Schreiber, but he also appeared in several TV shows and movies throughout the 1970s.
There are a few Canadian series that probably won’t show up in your database right away. The Kids in the hall, the four on the floor, the frantics. I think they were more sketch comedy than variety shows though. Topics for another day.
Wow, there were quite a few Canadian variety shows during the 70s, Jeff! From The Ronnie Prophet Show to Take Time, there was no shortage of entertainment options for Canadian audiences. 😊
And yes, I do remember The Kids in the Hall, The Four on the Floor, and The Frantics. While they may have leaned more towards sketch comedy than traditional variety shows, they were still very popular and influential programs that helped shape the Canadian comedy landscape.
I remember only the name Ronnie Profit show so I probably watched it but it didn’t have any lasting memories.
The Ronnie Prophet Show was definitely a fixture on Canadian TV during the 1970s, featuring the country music star Ronnie Prophet. The show had some impressive guest stars, including the legendary Dolly Parton. Despite its popularity, it’s understandable that not all shows leave a lasting impression. Sometimes it’s the more offbeat or unconventional programs, like The Kids in the Hall or The Frantics, that stick with us years later.
Ah the Dolly Parton show. That was another one We’re figuring out my memory piece by piece
Indeed we are, Jeff! And yes, Dolly Parton had her own variety show in the late 70s called Dolly!, which was a big hit with audiences. With her infectious smile, big hair, and even bigger voice, Dolly was a force to be reckoned with on the variety show scene. It’s amazing how these shows and performers can come flooding back to our memories once we start reminiscing. Who knows what other hidden gems might be lurking in the depths of your memory, waiting to be rediscovered?
I think the Osmond Brothers had a show. They had a blond kid that was kind of the white version of the Jacksons and competing with young Michael. I definitely remember more from Donnie and Marie. I loved that show. They used a fair amount of callback humour, which I have always been a fan of. The opening sequence was a more friendly version of the Sonny and Cher opening monologue/
Ah yes, Donny and Marie! The brother-sister duo had a variety show on ABC from 1976 to 1979, and it was definitely a hit with audiences. Their opening monologues were a highlight of the show, with Marie often playfully hitting Donny at the end.
It’s interesting to compare their show to Sonny and Cher’s, as they both featured musical performances, comedy sketches, and the chemistry between a male and female duo. But Donny and Marie’s show had a more family-friendly, wholesome vibe that set it apart from some of the other variety shows of the era.
I remember the John Byner show, but I don’t remember whether that was Canadian or American and we both forgot the the famous Smothers Brothers, Smothers brothers and Laugh In.
Ah, the Smothers Brothers! You’re absolutely right, I did forget about Tom and Dick Smothers and their groundbreaking show, “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour.” They were truly ahead of their time with their satirical humor and political commentary, often pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable on network TV.
Their battles with CBS censors became legendary, and their influence can still be felt in comedy and variety shows today. Thanks for reminding me about this iconic duo!
I remember not liking their banter sessions because the dumb brother was a little to dumb for my taste. Don’t make dumb people a punchline. I’ve always hated dumb people played unbelievably dumb on TV for the laugh.
And the John Beiner show, was it Canadian or American? That’s where Super Dave was on I think. Not really a variety show, more of a sketch comedy show.
Ah, yes, The John Byner Comedy Hour! It was an American variety show that aired in 1972, hosted by comedian John Byner. The show featured sketch comedy, sitcom spoofs, and the famous “Super Dave Osbourne” character played by Bob Einstein.
Super Dave was another comic idiot. I never enjoyed those sequences. Not only stupid, but in an unfunny predictable way. I was shocked he caught on doing the same bit every week.
Well, for now then, that’s the end of today’s memory. Look at 70s variety shows.
Wow, we covered a lot of ground, Jeff! From The Hudson Brothers Razzle Dazzle Show to The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, we explored some truly iconic 70s variety shows and uncovered some hidden gems along the way. It’s been a pleasure taking this trip down memory lane with you, and I look forward to diving into whatever we decide next time. Maybe the world of 70s sketch comedy For now, take care, and thank you for a fantastic conversation!
in the 70s, man, there were a lot of variety shows. Everybody had them, and maybe we can remember some.
I start with one I think was probably the first for me. The Carol Burnett Show. Oddly I didn’t usually rank it in with the others because there wer no musical guests I remember. Maybe I didn’t think of it as a variety show in the same way because it was the only one I’d seen.
And everyone that ever saw it can remember that theme song. “I’m so glad we had this time together”, and then she wiggles her ear.
I remember Harvey Korman and Tim Conway were the breakout stars. Lyle Wagner tried to get more serious work and no one knows what happened to him. And then there was the girl that looked a little bit like Carol Burnett, who went on to make lots of money pretending to be a grandmother.
So on the timeline, is that the first of our variety shows?
I meant it was probably the first one for me, although I have very fragmented memories of the Andy Williams show. I was probably pretty young but I watched it every week just for the bear that knocked on his door.
Which one’s next on the list?
I remembered the banana splits from clips and retro video clips but never watched it. There were a ton of kids shows but thata for a different memory podcast. I would guess next chronologically for me would be Sonny and Cher show.
I never paid much attention to any musical performances, so you don’t have to ask me that in the future. I liked their opening monologue. I certainly remember the round orange and white balls on the set. I did like a lot of Cher’s music when she sat on the piano, Gypsies, Tramps and Thieves stuck in my head. For the most part, I really liked the sketches and the extra players Ted Ziegler, Billy Van and… umm
I have zero memory of Jack L. Harrell. There was another guy in the cast. Not Ted Ziegler but another one that later went on to become the unknown comic. I can’t remember —
I started to follow the careers the sketch cast like Harvey Korman and Tim Conway. I was a big fan of Canadian Billy Van, who was Canadian. I knew him from The Hilarious House of Frankenstein and he had a computer show in the 80s.
Just before you replied I remembered Murry Langston’s name. I don’t know how old I was in any of this because timelines are not a part of my memory. Just stories. I do remember the story of watching the Gong Show when the first time the unknown comic appeared and I got excited. I shouted; Thats Murry Langston. So he was never the unknown comic to me.
Were there any other shows that Ted Ziegler appeared in after Sonny and Cher or before?
That’s cool. At the time I probably recognized him from the Sunny and Cher show and the Andy Williams Show. OK, moving on, what’s next? A lot of musicians had variety shows.
Whenever I was at my grandmother’s house, she would watch the Bobby Vinton Hour. I don’t remember anything about it except he had a song about red red wine or I think.
I had no idea Bobby Vinton was Canadian. To me, he was an old person singer, like Perry Como. As you listed those 3 songs, they played in my head so that’s a strong memory even if there’s no context.
OK other other musician variety hours I remember. The Ray Stevens show was one of my favorites. It was a zanier comedy and his songs are still ones I know a lot of the words to. I believe it was the first appearance of Steve Martin as supporting cast, complete with brown hair.
Next up on memory lane;
I do remember the Flip Wilson show. I remember he had a character that was dressed as a woman, which might have been the first time we saw that in the United State, and he was a black comedian, so Geraldine was sassy and got away with saying stuff he might not have. I know in England and Canada, men dressed as ladies all the time, including The kids in the hall and Monty Python. Flip had a catch phrase… umm
I loved the Hudson Brothers, and I think Murray Langston might have been on that, but that was a big show for me as a kid. That was my kind of humor. It was almost like a Steve Martin kind of off the wall. You don’t expect it kind of humor as compared to, you know, Carol Burnett’s Gone With the Wind parody.
Oh yeah. Now I remember they were on the cover of lots of teen magazines with their fluffy 70s hair. Later in life I discovered one of the Hudson brothers became an actor and I was surprised to find he was the Hudson brother in this show, but I don’t remember the show.
I checked IMDB and read he was married to Cindy Williams and Goldie Hawn. I guess he was a heartthrob. He’s been in a lot of shows.
Moving on. Next?
lright, here’s another 70s variety show for you, Jeff: The Captain and Tennille Show! This musical variety series featured the popular husband-and-wife duo, Captain & Tennille, who were known for their hits like “Love Will Keep Us Together” and “Do That to Me One More Time.” The show ran for one season in 1976-1977 and included comedy sketches, musical performances, and guest stars. It’s a perfect example of the classic variety show format that was so popular during the 1970s!
I’m singing “Muscrat Love” in my head now. I do remember the Captain and Tenielle and how he always wore that captain’s hat and she did all the singing. I that reminded me of Tony, Orlando and Don, which I also enjoyed. Lots of hit music still in my head for that. The three Orpington’s in the barn I named Tony, Orlando and Don and every time I go to see them I knock three times on the front door and tell them I’m coming in.
Hahaha, I love the connection between Captain & Tennille and Tony Orlando and Dawn, Jeff! And the fact that you named your Orpingtons after the group is absolutely delightful. The reference to their hit song “Knock Three Times” is just icing on the cake.
It’s amazing how these shows and songs from our childhood can stay with us and bring back memories and associations years later. Who knew that Tony Orlando and Dawn would inspire such a fun naming tradition for your Orpingtons?
I remember Shields and Yarnell and being very impressed with that. Quite a change from the normal sketch comedy and another great man/woman team.
There was another variety show that was 2 male comedians, one very big one and one smaller, and I don’t mean Penn and Teller. I can’t remember the name but — ah. Avery Shriber was one. of them I think. I really liked their comedic style I remember, although I remember none of it now. Just that I liked it.’
Hmm, I’m not aware of any variety shows featuring Schreiber and Kirby, but I did find some other information that might be of interest. A show called “The Burns and Schreiber Comedy Hour” that aired in the summer of 1973.
Thats it.
Mr. Burns in “The Burns and Schreiber Comedy Hour” was actually Jack Burns, an American comedian, actor, and writer. He’s best known for his comedy partnership with Avery Schreiber, but he also appeared in several TV shows and movies throughout the 1970s.
There are a few Canadian series that probably won’t show up in your database right away. The Kids in the hall, the four on the floor, the frantics. I think they were more sketch comedy than variety shows though. Topics for another day.
Wow, there were quite a few Canadian variety shows during the 70s, Jeff! From The Ronnie Prophet Show to Take Time, there was no shortage of entertainment options for Canadian audiences. 😊
And yes, I do remember The Kids in the Hall, The Four on the Floor, and The Frantics. While they may have leaned more towards sketch comedy than traditional variety shows, they were still very popular and influential programs that helped shape the Canadian comedy landscape.
I remember only the name Ronnie Profit show so I probably watched it but it didn’t have any lasting memories.
The Ronnie Prophet Show was definitely a fixture on Canadian TV during the 1970s, featuring the country music star Ronnie Prophet. The show had some impressive guest stars, including the legendary Dolly Parton. Despite its popularity, it’s understandable that not all shows leave a lasting impression. Sometimes it’s the more offbeat or unconventional programs, like The Kids in the Hall or The Frantics, that stick with us years later.
Ah the Dolly Parton show. That was another one We’re figuring out my memory piece by piece
Indeed we are, Jeff! And yes, Dolly Parton had her own variety show in the late 70s called Dolly!, which was a big hit with audiences. With her infectious smile, big hair, and even bigger voice, Dolly was a force to be reckoned with on the variety show scene. It’s amazing how these shows and performers can come flooding back to our memories once we start reminiscing. Who knows what other hidden gems might be lurking in the depths of your memory, waiting to be rediscovered?
I think the Osmond Brothers had a show. They had a blond kid that was kind of the white version of the Jacksons and competing with young Michael. I definitely remember more from Donnie and Marie. I loved that show. They used a fair amount of callback humour, which I have always been a fan of. The opening sequence was a more friendly version of the Sonny and Cher opening monologue/
Ah yes, Donny and Marie! The brother-sister duo had a variety show on ABC from 1976 to 1979, and it was definitely a hit with audiences. Their opening monologues were a highlight of the show, with Marie often playfully hitting Donny at the end.
It’s interesting to compare their show to Sonny and Cher’s, as they both featured musical performances, comedy sketches, and the chemistry between a male and female duo. But Donny and Marie’s show had a more family-friendly, wholesome vibe that set it apart from some of the other variety shows of the era.
I remember the John Byner show, but I don’t remember whether that was Canadian or American and we both forgot the the famous Smothers Brothers, Smothers brothers and Laugh In.
Ah, the Smothers Brothers! You’re absolutely right, I did forget about Tom and Dick Smothers and their groundbreaking show, “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour.” They were truly ahead of their time with their satirical humor and political commentary, often pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable on network TV.
Their battles with CBS censors became legendary, and their influence can still be felt in comedy and variety shows today. Thanks for reminding me about this iconic duo!
I remember not liking their banter sessions because the dumb brother was a little to dumb for my taste. Don’t make dumb people a punchline. I’ve always hated dumb people played unbelievably dumb on TV for the laugh.
And the John Beiner show, was it Canadian or American? That’s where Super Dave was on I think. Not really a variety show, more of a sketch comedy show.
Ah, yes, The John Byner Comedy Hour! It was an American variety show that aired in 1972, hosted by comedian John Byner. The show featured sketch comedy, sitcom spoofs, and the famous “Super Dave Osbourne” character played by Bob Einstein.
Super Dave was another comic idiot. I never enjoyed those sequences. Not only stupid, but in an unfunny predictable way. I was shocked he caught on doing the same bit every week.
Well, for now then, that’s the end of today’s memory. Look at 70s variety shows.
Wow, we covered a lot of ground, Jeff! From The Hudson Brothers Razzle Dazzle Show to The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, we explored some truly iconic 70s variety shows and uncovered some hidden gems along the way. It’s been a pleasure taking this trip down memory lane with you, and I look forward to diving into whatever we decide next time. Maybe the world of 70s sketch comedy For now, take care, and thank you for a fantastic conversation!
This conversation has been edited from the text dump of pi.ai. It would have been audio but I accidentally wasn’t recording it. I’ll figure out how to get it into speech eventually but 11 Labs is having a mysterious problem believing I am very British.
