The Super Bowl has probably become the biggest annual "event" on television. Programs like "The A-Team" became a hit because they received huge audiences by debuting directly after a Super Bowl broadcast. Many of the top rated programs in television history are Super Bowls. There are also countless hours of pre-game programming, even from networks who wont' be broadcasting the game. It is quite an accomplishment when you consider that two networks broadcast the first Super Bowl and many fans got free tickets. (Believe it or not, many people thought the idea of a "Super Bowl" was a mistake. Back then, however, the NFL was not the dominant television sports franchise that it is today.) Last I heard, tickets for this upcoming game were going as high as $3,000 each.
Fox television will be broadcasting this year's Super Bowl between the defending Super Bowl Champion and AFC Champion New England Patriots and the NFC Champion Philadelphia Eagles. The kick off is 6 p.m. EST.
Fox is pulling out all the stops. Their pre-game shows that starts at 7 a.m. EST and includes Tom Arnold, host of "The Best Damn Sports Show Period." Due to concerns from about FCC fines, however, the program will be referred to as "The Best Darn Sports Show Period." (Political correctness at Fox? Who'd a thunk it?)
The NFL took control of the Super Bowl halftime show after last year's "wardrobe malfunction" with Janet Jackson. Paul McCartney has been hired to provide the Super Bowl halftime entertainment this year. Don't expect any "wardrobe malfunctions" with him.
A television legend passes away: The word legend is often overstated but not when it comes to the King of Late Night, Johnny Carson. Carson hosted "The Tonight Show" from 1962 through 1992. He provided some of the best moments in all of television. He was also known for giving comedians their big break including David Brenner, Joan Rivers, Jay Leno and David Letterman. A thumbs up from Johnny after a routine meant that you were on your way.
I'm 42 years of age and Carson was on way too late for me to watch on a school night. Nonetheless, I would often turn the TV on very low in my room late at night so I could catch Carson and his monologues. It would be so good I'd often find myself watching the entire show
