Wizzard's Blog

I have watched many long running shows and rarely a show survives such major change like a lead actor changing or the host is replaced for whatever reason.

Then there are the shows that do survive, but the vibe isn’t the same and it ends up putting you off a show for years that you used to love.

Have I got news for you? – This has been running on the BBC since 1990. It is a topical comedy panel show. It was originally hosted by Angus Deayton with regular team Captains Ian Hislop and Paul Merton.

In 2002 Angus Deayton resigned from his job as host after his private life was splashed all over the tabloids. So this left the host’s chair vacant, so instead of hiring someone permanent to replace him, the BBC decided to go with guest hosts. At one point it was rumoured that Alexander Armstrong was going to sign a contract to become the permanent host, however nothing came out of this rumour.

I think this show has greatly improved since they have a new host every week. It is very easy to get used to a presenters style and you tend to become bored, at least with guest host it keeps it interesting.

Never Mind The Buzzcocks – Another BBC quiz show this time a music comedy panel show started in 1996. It originally started with Mark Lamarr as host and Phil Jupitus and Sean Hughes as the original team captains.

Sean Hughes left in 2002 and was replaced by Bill Bailey, I thought we were going to loose some dynamic when this happened. Bill Bailey was an absolutely brilliant replacement, so all was well again for a while.

Then Bill Bailey left in 2008 to pursue other projects,so now the guest captain dynamic has been introduced which I feel is brilliant, again it stops the show from becoming stale and boring.

Alas Mark Lamarr left in 2005 and for a single series they had guest hosts, then up pops Simon Amstell in 2006.

I have to say he is absolutely rubbish, the highlight of each show is when the contestant gives him back the stick he gives them.

I don’t watch it as much anymore because of this.

Brainiac – This time a show on Sky One, a wacky show with OTT science experiments hosted by Richard Hammond, then it was spoiled when Vic Reeves replaced him, Vic seemed to be way out of his depth and seemed very “wooden”. I haven’t been able to watch the show since he took over, another one of my favourites ruined.

So over to you list your shows where the dynamic has been changed for better or for worse.