Sickening TV
What do the late Michael Jackson and “Curb Your Enthusiasm” co-star Cheryl Hines have in common? Let me explain.
Turn The Lights Back Off!
Watching Billy Joel perform his new song at the Grammys was painful — not because of the tune, which was fine, but because of the way it was broadcast. Allow me to elucidate.
Jon Stewart’s Return
Some thoughts on Jon Stewart’s upcoming return to “The Daily Show” and what impact it may have on the presidential election.
Franken and Downey
After listening to Al Franken talking on his podcast with fellow former “Saturday Night Live” writer Jim Downey, I remembered loving a classic skit the latter appeared in. I’ve embedded both the conversation and the sketch here.
David Bianculli on The Smothers Brothers
In the wake of the death of Tommy Smothers this week, I’m reposting my conversation with David Bianculli about his book, “Dangerously Funny,” a history of the Smothers Brothers’ TV show.
Tommy Smothers
I’m saddened to hear of the death of Tommy Smothers at the age of 86. Here’s a conversation I had with him in 2007 about his long career with brother Dick — and the time he taught John Lennon the right way to play a song.