The King of Television, Regis Philbin, is back on daily, live TV with the sports show “Crowd Goes Wild”, which airs weekdays at 5pm EST on the new Fox Sports 1. He’s joined by five other panelists: former Sky Sports anchor/reporter Georgie Thompson, Wall Street Journal columnist Jason Gay, comedian Michael Kosta, internet correspondent Katie Nolan, and two-time Super Bowl champ Trevor Pryce (Denver Broncos, Baltimore Ravens, NY Jets).
Each day the show starts-off with something fans have come to love from his decades on the air: Regis talking about what he did the night before. Then it’s on to the day’s top sports (and occasionally entertainment) headlines, with everyone on the panel givng their interesting perspectives. Also incorporated throughout the hour are guest appearances and regular features, including wacky games, polls and viral videos.
Earlier this week I had the chance to go to NYC’s Chelsea Piers studios and catch “Crowd Goes Wild” in person. Being part of a studio audience is always a fun experience, particularly when the show is live. The energy level and excitment in the studio was pretty high, especially since this was only the second week the show has been on ther air. The staff, crew and panelists all worked together nicely. Former NFL QB Joe Theisman was the guest at the show I attended.
I was also able to catch-up with my good pal Reege after the show. He told me he’s starting to like the new atmosphere but admitted that it’s much different interacting with (or as he put it “keeping track of”) not just one but FIVE co-hosts. His main goal of “CGW” is to create a sports talk show that’s also entertaining. So far, so good. As a critic I can say that each day the show is getting smoother and more enjoyable.
Regis’ office isn’t quite as elaborate as the one he had during his years at “Live!”, but his couch is quite comfortable. And his dresser, Goldie (who’s been with him for a long time) is back by his side. Reege and the family are doing well, including grandson “Mr. Trouble” who is starting Kindergarten this fall.
On the way out I ran into Mr. Pryce (not literally or that would have hurt). He didn’t love the fact that I’m a Philadelphia Eagles fan, but was really nice (and is a big dude). And a short while later, we saw each other again while he was jogging with his dog.
If you’re one of Regis’ millions of fans “Crowd Goes Wild” is a must. And if you’re a sports fan, give it a shot. It’s not your typical sports talk show (there are already too many of those). You can follow “Crowd Goes Wild” on Twitter @CGW. And if you’d like to be part of the studio audience here’s the link for FREE tickets: http://1iota.com/Show/311/Crowd-Goes-Wild