by Merv with Peter Barsocchini Griffin ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 1, 1980
Griffin's careers as band-singer, actor, and talk-show host haven't exactly been filled with high drama; but this slickly low-key little memoir makes the most of not much--by jumping around. Merv begins in 1969 with the Big Decision: should he leave a hit syndicated daytime show to try a CBS late-nighter (at double the salary) opposite invincible Johnny Carson? The answer's yes--but before he gets to it, Merv switches gears: describing a typical workday and the techniques behind a successful show (""All a talk show needs to bomb is an unemployed, depressed audience""); reminiscing about his talk-show debut as a 1962 sub for Jack Paar, about his instant rapport with old Arthur Treacher (whom he stubbornly insisted on hiring as sidekick). And then he goes all the way back--to his California childhood as a ""funny fat kid"" and church-organist/singer who made it big in San Francisco radio, lost 80 lbs., and went on the road with Freddy Martin's orchestra (""Lovely Bunch of Coconuts""). Time out, however, for intermission: self-important accounts of serious interviews with Bertrand Russell, Bobby Kennedy, et al. (""I knew firsthand. . . that Dr. King did have a dream and Bobby did see a day."") Then back to the '50s: mildly funny misery as a minor Hollywood actor, friendships with Monty Chft (more gross anecdotes to add to the files) and Liz Taylor. And finally--life since '69: troubles at CBS, divorce from wife Julann, the move to his current Metromedia show. Throughout, Merv is mostly likable, seemingly candid, but--despite passing references to TM, analysis, and his weight problem--never really self-revealing. And the show itself provides surprisingly few anecdote gems (outrageous Tallulah, pathetic Judy G., Nixon wanting to be set up for jokes). Still: a reasonably pleasant, mostly painless blend of celebrities and TV-biz (Merv owns game-shows) that's sure to please the many fans.
Pub Date: Sept. 1, 1980
ISBN: N/A
Page Count: -
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Review Posted Online: N/A
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 1, 1980
Categories: NONFICTION
© Copyright 2024 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Hey there, book lover.
We’re glad you found a book that interests you!
We can’t wait for you to join Kirkus!
It’s free and takes less than 10 seconds!
Already have an account? Log in.
OR
Sign in with GoogleTrouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.
Welcome Back!
OR
Sign in with GoogleTrouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.
Don’t fret. We’ll find you.