I almost allowed the farewell of Bob Barker pass without a quick comment. I have not been a regular viewer of this program in many many years, but the news that he was retiring did catch my attention because I vividly remember the restart of The Price is Right back in 1972 – and I have admired Bob Barker’s easy on-air grace ever since.
If there is anything that has marked his excellence over the years, it is that he has managed to make this program about the contestants. . . not about himself. And in that respect, he reminds me a bit of Johnny Carson, the long time host of the Tonight Show. He had a similar gift for throwing the spotlight on his guests and for blending in the background to just the right extent. . . and in doing so, earning far more praise and glory than if he had mugged for attention all those years. My goal as I host the Morning Show is that it will never feel like The Greg Berg Show to people listening, because they will be paying too much attention to the guests.
I know Mark Goodson is still looking for a replacement, and I would like to offer my services to the program. I think I bring many important qualifications to the job, including silver air – and a gift for gab. I think I would do a really fine job. . .
EXCEPT for the part about strangers hugging and kissing me. I am willing to allow such contact when I really know someone, but that comes with time. So no hugs- no kisses- only warm handshakes.
EXCEPT for keeping the rules of the games straight. I have always been astounded at how Bob Barker can follow these games so effortlessly – and so errorlessly. (That’s probably not a word.) I will need a special assistant standing beside me the whole time, quietly coaching me through the games.
EXCEPT for being a sharp dresser. I mentioned that I have the silver hair thing pretty much down pat, but I am infamous for the disheveled state of my clothing. CBS is just going to have to learn to live with my shirt tail hanging out – and worse.
EXCEPT for remaining chipper when people bomb on the show. I think Bob always seems genuinely delighted when people win stuff on the show, but only somewhat sad when they don’t- but he doesn’t let people’s misfortune get to him. I expect to be heartbroken when contestants- and especially when contestants I like – blow it. I will be be miserable on their behalf and will do whatever I can to making everyone else feel similarly miserable.
EXCEPT for asking that the pet population be controlled. I’m not hesitant about bossing people around, but I would rather say something about something that matters more to me. Something like, “This is Greg Berg reminding you that today is a great day to watch an opera video. Do it right now!”
I’m expecting CBS to call any day.