The wait is over. Hollywood Squares is back on the air. But, this ain't your parents' Squares. Not even your grandparents.
Actress-talk show host Drew Barrymore serves as center square/co-executive producer for this iteration, which will shift to Wednesdays beginning January 29. Two half hour episodes fill a hour-long block, as that's the going rate these days. Nate Burleson (CBS Mornings, The NFL Today) hosts, and unlike his predecessors, he walks, or, as seen opening night, runs out to the stage when introduced. There is no set announcer, as a panelist, such as Julie Bowen (ex-Modern Family) fills that role for each episode. Where's Shadoe Stevens when you need him?
If we're lucky, they'll bring him in soon.
One week in, Burleson is a work in progress. He's more engaging with both contestants and panelists, which is a good sign. The bonus game looks similar to something from the Tom Bergeron era (1998-2004), and easier.
The first half hour included a tribute card to the original "Master of the Hollywood Squares", Peter Marshall, who passed away a few months back. In the 2nd half hour, Drew Carey (The Price is Right), who looks slimmer than ever, is on the panel, and is part of this excerpt.
Rating: B.
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