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Merv Griffin is a fascinating character. Impish and irreverent at times, but when interviewing an important person e.g. Martin Luther King Jr., he makes himself an afterthought, or just part of the scenery. He lets the interviewee take center stage. This set consists three discs: show biz folk on one, important persons who are now historical figures on another, and finally the greatest comedians. His commentary on the interviews is often a revelation. For instance, his interview of Orson Welles. Griffin, in a voice over, says that Welles who had often been a guest on his show would never allow questions about his personal life. Once, he did allow this and talked most poignantly about his former wife Rita Hayworth. He died two hours after that interview. This set is well worth purchasing, and the disc entitled "Extraordinary Guests" should be treated as an historical artifact. I wish he had included some of the badinage that passed between him and Jack Sheldon (his band leader for some years and a musician's musician). Also, as I remember, his conversations with his sidekick Arthur Treacher were often more entertaining than those he had with many of his guests. However, he has truly chosen well, especially when compared to Johnny Carson's compilation.Read full review
I was in my teen years when Merv's show was on, and I was considering a broadcasting career. I was priviliged to be in his audience for many shows, both in New York City and Los Angeles. These interviews carry through to today. The comments made by the guests could easily be made today as they were 30 years ago. Study the Walter Cronkite inverview, for example. As Mr. Griffin said on Larry King, today this type of show cannot be done because of time constraints ordered by the networks. Thank goodness Mr. Griffin was able to listen to his guests for a longer period of time than the "network suits" now dictate. Contrast the "programmed" interview that is now on ALL talk shows with the responses Mr. Burns, Mr. Benny, or Mr. King gave in front of a live studio audience. And pay attention to Mr. Griffin's reactions. It really was a true listening effort Mr. Griffin paid to his guests. Try to find that kind of attention today....'taint there. These CD's bring back a wonderful television time for those of us who really paid attention to Mr. Carson, Mr. Douglas, and Mr. Griffin as they brought actors and others into our homes every afternoon and night for many, many years.Read full review
I bought this especially to see the full interview with Bobby Kennedy. Sadly, the main parts I wanted to see were edited out! This set should be titled "snippets of interviews". Disappointed.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
Wonderful collection of memorable interviews with Merv, the greatest talk show host of all time. Mike Douglas and Dinah Shore (whose talk shows in the early 70's were Merv's rivals can't compare to Merv's professionalism, enthusiasm for his guests, his hospitality, and his genuine kindness for them which is obvious. He wasn't patronizing or a sensationalist only interested in the scandals and gossip as was Oprah. Merv was the best. Noone can even come close to his talent! Many happy memories of my highschool days when I would come home and watch Merv were relived with this collection. I wish there were more!!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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