"MonsterQuest" Marathon All Day Today on History Channel!

Don't miss the terrific MonsterQuest marathon on History Channel today! In primetime they throw in an episode of Modern Marvels about Halloween, but mostly it's some great MonsterQuest episodes!

The Return of "V" -- This Coming Tuesday on ABC!

U2, YouTube and Millions of Fans Join for a Global Video Event

Nearly 100,000 fans gathered to watch Bono and the legendary rock band U2 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California last night. The concert made history in two regards; largest attendance ever at a Rose Bowl concert gathering and the first time that YouTube streamed an entire concert live. The latter is what I really want to highlight here, because it was utterly magnificent. Sound and visual was stunning from this (Time Warner Roadrunner high speed) customer's perspective. The option for either full screen or partial screen with a YouTube and Twitter comment section was available. This YouTube live stream was available in 16 countries including the US, UK, Canada, Japan and various South American venues. Watching the concert live with continuous comments from joyous fans around the world was truly an uplifting moment. If you missed the "live" version, YouTube will re-stream the entire concert on their page sometime today.Combined with the jaw dropping 360 degree set (pictured) which was patterned after the "Spider" theme building at the Los Angeles airport, the entire event felt like something out of a Sci-Fi movie. I also spent most of the concert texting friends and family, who were either at the Rose Bowl or watching it on YouTube, as well as adding my status updates about the whole thing to Facebook continuously. It was one big virtual concert blast for me.

It will be very interesting to see what kind of an impact this web event had in terms of grabbing eyeballs from Sunday night television. Video content continues to migrate from one medium to the next, (or occupy both spaces simultaneously). The YouTube U2 concert was thrilling and its execution was smooth and seamless. I would expect to see more splashy live video events on the web soon, since this one was such an amazing success.

Oh...yeah. Bono and The Edge were phenomenal too. Here's a taste of the boys from Ireland performing "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For", while 100,000 adoring folks from Los Angeles sing along. Transcendent. Gorgeous.

I'm in Love with Ted Danson on HBO's "Bored to Death"!

Ted Danson racks up another of his impeccable performances in HBO's Bored to Death. If you aren't watching this show, start as soon as possible! It's delightful. Here's a little compilation clip, featuring Danson and his co-stars Jason Schwartzman and Zack Galifianakis.



(Danson also tends to show up as himself in Larry David's Curb Your Enthusiasm, new episodes also now on HBO. Don't miss either of these terrific shows!)

The Snazziest Soupy Sales Song Clip Ever!

I posted this on Facebook a couple of days ago, but it needs to be here on The Flaming Nose, too. This is undoubtedly the grooviest rendition of the late great Soupy Sales' wonderful novelty rock and roll song "Do The Mouse", seen here from a 1967 episode of Hullaballoo.

Soupy and the dancers are swingin'! It's adorable!



Is that not the greatest?

Saying Goodbye to Soupy Sales

Baby boomers are saddened to learn of the death of childhood comedy icon Soupy Sales, who passed away yesterday in New York. He was 83 years old, and certainly was a bright and beloved figure in the annals of television comedy and kid shows particularly, although as you can see from the clips below, his were the hippiest supposedly children's programs around (except maybe for Paul Winchell's.)

I'd like to think that there were kids who preferred the gentler kiddy shows, and then there were the rest of us who grooved to the craziness of Soupy and his ilk. How a talented little Jewish kid from North Carolina became the legendary Soupy Sales is a wild ride, and you'll enjoy reading about his accomplished career in several great articles, including a wonderful series of several pieces from TV Party, an affectionate tribute from Mark Evanier on POV Online, another from Craig on his Flexitoon blog, a really good obituary from the L.A. Times, one from USA Today, and on Soupy Sales' MySpace page.

You'll enjoy watching this selection of clips, including an appearance by Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. in one of them. There are lots of Soupy clips on YouTube and elsewhere, and there's at least one collection available for sale. Hip, handsome and hilarious, Soupy Sales was a boomer favorite who will be affectionately remembered as a television pioneer.






The Soupy Sales Show - Frank Sinatra & Sammy Davis jr

So long, Soupy! We loved you!

Are You Pythoning This Week?

We're a tad late with this, but we hope that you are enjoying IFC's six part, six night event this week, saluting the greatest comedy influence of the late 20th century, Britain's Monty Python's Flying Circus.

Please visit IFC's website for all the schedule particulars, but don't expect to be able to watch any of the clips if you are anywhere but in the U.S. of A. There's some powerful and tremendously rude IP geoblocking going on there. Horrible and so uninviting, IFC!!!

The new documentary and the ensuing Python reunion event earlier this month in New York are good news for Python fans everywhere! I fondly remember going to see them live at the Hollywood Bowl, and if you also hold them in high esteem, you will love the doc!

The Nose Salutes the Macy's Commercial

From time to time The Flaming Nose likes to showcase great TV commercials. If you like big, emotional feel good spots (who doesn't?) this one's for you. Historical references and wonderful clips of old movies and television. Enjoy!

Jay Leno's new time slot wreaks havoc for NBC affiliates -- latimes.com

Jay Leno's new time slot wreaks havoc for NBC affiliates -- latimes.com

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Composer Vic Mizzy dies at 93

Composer Vic Mizzy dies at 93

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Interesting "Variety" Article on Upcoming Development -- It's All About the Comedy!

Check out this article from Variety!: Networks burst out laughing




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Gavin MacLeod - The Interview Tribute to Gavin MacLeod

Gavin MacLeod is a true television legend. Obviously, he's had a long and successful career in the medium of television, but before his road to enduring icon status he enjoyed a career in both theater and film. I am honored that Mr. MacLeod has agreed to be interviewed by "The Flaming Nose." We here at "The Flaming Nose" have all enjoyed careers in television and it is a privilege to share this interview with our readers. 

 J: Gavin, thanks for taking the time to be interviewed here at The Flaming Nose. You and I discussed some time ago my own deep interest in Native American history and culture. You’re the son of a Chippewa descendant. As an actor, did you ever have an opportunity to play a Native American? 

 

G: Check out my beautiful baby blues! Unfortunately, I never had an opportunity to play a Native American. That would have been intriguing casting! 

 J: Yes, I get the baby blues, but I thought with contacts and all… What was the driving decision that led you into acting? 

 

G: My first play was when I was 4 years old. That was the start which became my passion, not the applause, but the acting. I won several awards in high school and then I received a drama scholarship to Ithaca College. I got a Bachelor of Fine Arts, an Honorary Doctorate of fine arts and a Lifetime Achievement Award ~ all from Ithaca. 

J: Your first big break came in the Broadway show of “A Hatful of Rain.” After your first night on Broadway did you experience fear in thinking this might be it or were you energized and confident? 

G: My first night on Broadway was a momentous time in my life - a goal realized! I was very confident and humbled to be included on stage with some of the best actors in the business. 

J: You carved out a serious reputation for playing the “heavy” prior to making your mark in episodic television. How did that come about and how did you get out of it? Actors always say it’s fun to play bad. I assume you would agree. 

G: I played "heavy" because I was a young man with a bald head, so what else could casting agents do with someone like that? I finally played leading men when I bought my first hairpiece. Eventually with age, I grew into my look without hair. Some of the "heavies" I played like the ones on The Untouchables, Big Chicken in Hawaii Five-O were delicious roles. They were great fun and I enjoyed every minute of those roles. 

J: “McHale’s Navy” then came along. A regular paycheck with a well known cast! Did you feel you were on the proverbial cloud nine? Any funny moments you can share? Tim Conway had to be good for plenty of laughs. Ernest Borgnine played light in the show, but he was known for serious drama – his great Oscar-winning performance in “Marty” and his robust bad guy from “From Here to Eternity” wouldn’t lead one to believe he would have comedy chops. 

 

G: Working with Ernie, Tim and Joe Flynn on McHale's Navy was a good two year gig with lots of laughs. I enjoyed the experience and they were terrific people and wonderful actors. I left the show to go to China to shoot “The Sand Pebbles” with Steve McQueen. Steve and I had previously played brothers on the New York stage and working on this Oscar nominated film was a wonderful ten month job. I continue to pinch myself when I realize how many of the show business icons I have had the pleasure and honor to work with. It still amazes me. I've worked with Bob Hope, Barbara Stanywyck, Orson Welles, Gregory Peck, Cary Grant, Charles Bronson, Bing Crosby, Clint Eastwood. It's been an amazing ride! 

J: Did your own time in the military play any consequential part in your roles in the films “Pork Chop Hill,” “War Hunt,” “The Sand Pebbles” or “Kelly’s Heroes?’  

G: Kelly's Heroes was a terrific experience! Clint Eastwood, Telly Savalas and especially Donald Sutherland made this location and shoot an unforgettable career experience. Brian Hutton, our director, one of my all-time favorites had acted with me on the stage and in 1960 he directed Robert Blake and myself in a play about drugs called “The Connection.” Great memories. 

J: You had the opportunity to work with Ronald Reagan twenty years before he became President? Did you ever give that a thought at that time? I wonder if he ever gave that a thought at that time? What were your impressions of the President? Did you have an encounter with President Reagan once he entered office? Were you ever able to reminisce? 

G: Ronald Reagan was the president of the Screen Actors Guild and the producer of General Electric Theatre in 1960. When I worked with the future President and Peggy Lee (who appeared in the same program), he was very charming and he took me to lunch on my first day of rehearsal and we had a good shoot. Years later, I spent an evening with Nancy and him at the Beverly Hills Hotel when we presented Nancy Kissinger with an award. My wife Patti and I were guests of his at the White House when he was President. We met the number one chef at the White House who had previously worked on cruise ships. He requested a meeting with Captain Stubing and gave us cookies to take home. Cookies from the White House, what a memory! During President Reagan's two terms, I even traveled the nation for Mrs. Reagan's "Hugs, not Drugs" program. 

J: Blake Edwards was one of the most gifted directors of the last 50 years. You worked with him. Tell me about that relationship.

G: Blake Edwards was instrumental in getting my career cooking. From the first Ivy League heavy in the “Peter Gunn” pilot to the naive Yeomen in “Operation Petticoat,” and then on the films “High Time,” “The Party” and TV's “Mr. Lucky.” A fun and brilliant director to work with! 

J: Ok. You worked with my all-time favorite actor. Robert Redford! You worked with him on "War Hunt" and that was Redford’s first feature film. Any consequential or not so consequential moments with the Sundance Kid? Have you ever encountered him again on the pathway of life?

G: Yes, "War Hunt" was Robert Redford's first film. Redford and his first wife Lola, were a terrific couple. Redford, Tom Skeritt (they went on to work together years later when Redford directed Skeritt in "A River Runs Through It") and myself used to hang out together. One night at his rental home, Bob had six of us over for dinner and showed us a model of a ranch he wanted to build in Utah. Eventually, that model became Sundance. Redford, in addition to being a wonderful actor and director is one of the best story tellers around. He is a gifted wordsmith. Funny, bright and charming. He would visit my home and captivate my kids. Way back then in the 1960’s. Very pleasant memories of that time in my life. 

J: My all-time favorite show is “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.” Mary Richards is the single most admirable female character in television history. Strong, smart, independent and elegant. I can only imagine how many women wanted to be MTM. Plus, she had a great sense of style. She rocked every item better than any woman in show biz history outside of Audrey Hepburn. It is an honor to interview the man who brought Mar's friend, Murray Slaughter to my television screen! How did you get the role of Murray Slaughter? Have you remained close with Mary and the gang? Was there one relationship from the show that was stronger than the others?

G: M-T-M was the greatest! I had just returned from the former Yugoslavia and shooting "Kelly's Heroes" when I received a call to read a pilot. They wanted to see me for Lou Grant and I read two scripts and felt I was better suited for Murray Slaughter. It is a long story but you know the result. Seven years of pride and being a part of this incredible TV experience. Mary will always be the greatest to me. Ted, Ed and I were very close friends. Georgia is very dear and is special to me. "Love is all around!" 

J: The Love Boat! Another big wow for your career! What an amazingly successful and iconic series. Seriously, did you have any idea what you were getting yourself into? 

G: Even though I was aware that two previous pilots didn't sell I still felt The Love Boat would be a hit and that's why I selected it over three other shows I was offered. I never quite anticipated the effect it would have on the world travel industry. Now the word cruising is in everyone's vocabulary. I have been working for Princess Cruises since 1986 as their spokesperson and at that time we had two mini ships and we now have 18 mega ships. Jack Jones has always been a friend. I just spoke to him and his new bride last week so he is living our theme song, "Love, exciting and new." One of my favorite moments was during the last show when I had the opportunity to marry my dear friend, Marion Ross. Mrs. C from “Happy Days” has now become Mrs. Captain Stubing. Yes, many people address me as "Captain" - some call me "Murray" - my kids call me "Pop".

J: You have a new film out right now (it was released on September 18). The film is called “The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry.” I saw the film. What motivates you at this point in your career to accept a role? What was it about Jonathan Sperry that pushed you to say yes. 

G: Jonathan Sperry is the most satisfying and important role I have ever had the privilege to play. To have the opportunity to speak God's word and see lives changed has been the highlight of my career. I am very proud to have taken part in bringing Jonathan Sperry to the general public and to have touched the lives of so many. Judith, my entire life has been a blessing - all my mistakes have been forgiven and I have become a new person in Christ. This is my life now. 

J: You've been heavily involved in the idea of bringing admirable character traits back into vogue. You have worked with children's authors and leaders about developing character at a young age.  I’m really excited about a project you are involved with – Character Classics. The concept is needed. It’s all about teaching young kids (3-8) about character. Respect, Obedience, Kindness, Thankfulness, Truthfulness. What led you to this project? 

G: Character Classics is a product that is really needed, especially at this time in our world. We lack any sense of morality, respect and all of the rest of those traits that I find lacking in society today. Young children need to learn character! Obedience, respect, truthfulness, kindness and thankfulness are what they need to be taught. This content will change lives! That is why I wanted to be a participant in  Character Classics. Solid character traits can bless everyone and enhance the chance to bring morality back into the daily lives of our children. 

J: Gavin, thank you so much for sharing a bit of your career with me. Love is all around.

Copyright The Flaming Nose 2009

Mad Men Meltdown of the Week

How is it possible that a series as languid as Mad Men has already aired 9 episodes and it seems like they just started the new season a week or two ago? This program is more densely packed than a holiday fruitcake, and fortunately more easy to digest.

This week's episode ("Wee Small Hours"), sans the amazing force of nature Joan should have felt even slower than normal, but three story lines kept me on the edge of my seat. Don continued his jousting with Connie Hilton, who keeps calling him in the middle of the night to whisper ideas over 40 year old prohibition era moonshine. Don doesn't seem at all alarmed by Connie's suggestions which are apparently fueled by a direct pipeline to God and include a Hilton Hotel on the moon. Connie isn't nearly as nuts as he seems though, and he (quite correctly) tells Don that his creative effort for the Hilton world wide expansion campaign is "good but not great".

Meanwhile, Betty kicks her flirtation with Henry the governor's aide up a few notches and wins this week's "Meltdown" award, when she hurls a metal campaign cash box at Henry in a burst of childish rage. Betty Draper is becoming increasingly disturbed. Not to go all pop Psychology, but I think she's bipolar. The kids shouldn't be left alone with her anymore, thank God for Carla the maid.

Last but by no means least, closeted commercial producer Sal found himself out on the street this week when he rebuffed the advances of a Lucky Strike client. Drunk and angry, the client demanded Sal's head (so to speak) and Don gave in rather than lose a $20 million dollar account.

It would be very unlikely for Matt Weiner to jettison two powerhouse characters (Sal and Joan) so one would hope to see them brought back to the fold soon. Less crazy Betty and more Joan d'Advertising Agency would suit me just fine.

"Community" Tries Hard to Please on NBC

A clever and mostly pleasant comedy premiered on NBC last week brought to us by Joe and Anthony Russo of "Arrested Development" fame. Airing Thursdays at 9:30pm, Community is an ensemble of quirky characters set at a local community college. The cast is mixed but interesting. Joel McHale anchors the effort as Jeff, the self centered smarty pants lawyer forced to return to college when his degree is discovered to be a sham. Simultaneously amusing and annoying is Dani Pudi as Abed, the Arab-American pop culture nerd with a serious case of ADD. The stereotypical angry middle aged divorcee (Shirley) is capably rendered by Yvette Brown. Chevy Chase stars as Pierce, a sage senior who is in every class and we are never really sure why. Chase is brilliantly underplaying his former star persona in this series. He is subtle, eccentric and a true team player. Last night's episode in which he tried to teach a fellow student how to "sneeze like a man" was genius.

One of the funniest characters in the series is Senor Chang, a Chinese American Spanish teacher played by Ken Jeong, who stole the show on the hit summer movie comedy, "The Hangover". Note to NBC---make sure Senor Chang is in every episode, he brings the most humor and energy.

Rounding out the cast is Gillian Jacobs as Britta, the obligatory pretty blond which, based on a 50 year old rule, must appear in every television sitcom. She's light as a feather and so far not especially memorable.

This series might be a diamond in the rough if the writing stays sharp. It's definitely a worthy lead-out for The Office and 30 Rock on Thursday nights.