TV Show spotlight
The ABC Comedy Hour
The ABC Comedy Hour is an American television variety series that aired on ABC in 1972. Seven of the 13 episodes featured a guest host and a team of comedy impressionists known as The Kopycats. Guest hosts included Steve Lawrence, Orson Welles, Ed Sullivan, Raymond Burr, Robert Young, Debbie Reynolds and Tony Curtis. The remaining six episodes were variety specials and included two Friars Club roasts and a revival of the musical Hellzapoppin' starring Jack Cassidy. The show originally aired on Wednesday at 8:30 PM. Summer reruns of the seven Kopycats episodes were aired under the title The ABC Comedy Hour Presents the Kopycats. The same episodes aired in Great Britain simply as The Kopycats.
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Plot Summary
The ABC Comedy Hour was a short-lived American sketch comedy and variety show that aired on ABC in 1972. Each episode featured a mix of musical performances, stand-up comedy, and satirical sketches, often with a topical slant. The show aimed to provide a lighthearted and humorous viewing experience for a broad audience.
Critical Reception
The ABC Comedy Hour received a lukewarm reception during its brief run. Critics were divided, with some praising the individual comedic talents of its hosts and guests, while others found the show's format to be inconsistent and lacking a cohesive identity. Audience numbers were not strong enough to warrant a continuation beyond its initial season.
What Reviewers Say
Showcased a variety of comedic talents, though often lacked a distinct point of view.
Some sketches hit the mark, while others felt dated or fell flat.
A competent but ultimately unremarkable entry in the variety show genre.
Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce given the show's age and limited run, but general sentiment suggests it was a typical, if uninspired, variety program of its era, with some viewers remembering specific comedic bits fondly.
Fun Fact
Despite its short run, the show featured a wide array of guest stars from the era, including musicians and comedians who would go on to have successful careers.
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