The Game Show King: A Confession

While I wasn't too keen on the Newlywed Game or the Dating Game, I was always a fan of the Gong Show, and of the way Chuck Barris hosted it. He was crazy, funny, and seemingly out of control. This sweet, touching, funny book brings it all together, and gives you an inside look at the mind of the man who created some of TV's iconic game shows. He mixes the stories of his time creating those shows, with stories of his retirement (yes, I know he hates that word) in St. Tropez. The craziness of the Hollywood is counterbalanced by stories of St. Tropez, which -- while seemingly peaceful and idyllic -- is crazy in it's own special way (at least, the way Chuck Barris sees it). The stories are funny, touching, and just plain interesting. While I could have used more on Hollywood, and less on St. Tropez, the combination of the two puts his life more into perspective. Special note to Mama Cass fans: Barris spends a short chapter talking about his friendship with Cass Elliot, including the time he produced her TV special, the time she spiked his brownies, and their near-tryst. Barris makes clear in the book that he's proud of his legacy of creating shows, but embarrassed by his persona on the Gong Show. He states that, in looking back, he can't understand his own actions, and calls it his public "mid-life crisis". Maybe that explains the absence of any Gong Show compilation on DVD. Pity. This book was written long before Confessions of a Dangerous Mind, and includes none of the insanity in that book. (I listened to the audio CD of Confessions, as read by Chuck Barris himself. I was unimpressed.) Chuck Barris has a unique and intersting story to tell, and he tells it well. Well worth reading.

The guy above didn't read this book....he doesn't even mention the CIA in it. Game Show King was a quick, enjoyable, funny read. I picked it up on a whim and loved it. Chuck's witty, flowing style makes this book read like a group of short stories with a common theme. The stories of the old days in TV are funny, bawdy and enjoyable and leave you wanting more. If you enjoyed his shows, pick up the book, it is worth the read.

This book was hysterical, it was passed around the office and a good read was had by all. You have to remember that Chuck Barris didn't find a cure for cancer, he created some of the funniest television moments. That being said the book merrily moves along recounting antics from his early days as well as his life in St. Tropez. Lighten up, sit back and enjoy the book.