What are the key ingredients to a great game show host?

Question

What are the key ingredients to a great game show host?

Answer 1

Charisma!!!!



Without charisma you cannot last more than one season.



Confidence is a must and also a handful of jokes will make you keep your crowd.

Answer 2

Charisma - if you can't charm your audience, you won't succeed.



Ability to think on the spot - if something goes wrong, are you able to make it look like a "deliberate mistake" or at least gloss over it so it isn't a big deal?



Quick humour - you definitely need a sense of humour - and if you can quip back at the people that try to catch you out then all the better!



Confidence - you've got to be confident to be able to pull off a good performance as host, and you've got to be confident enough to deal with any eventuality, and not fall apart if something happens that isn't in the script!

Answer 3

Mr. Shatner you already have it what it takes. Just be yourself and the game show should be a hit!

Answer 4

Well, when you look at the greats, they have several things in common: Individuality, character, personality, humour and wit, warmth, charisma and most importantly can laugh at themselves! They have a genuine interest in people, and they obviously LOVE what they do.



Oh and I think another great trait is the ability to make the audience feel like they are there with you on stage and playing long too...after all that is what the home viewers do, is envision themselves being the contestant..so keeping that in mind as you guide the excitement and tension along. That is probably what you should be focusing on as a host as I'm sure it will be just as exciting and thrilling for you too! :~)

Answer 5

sincere, warm, caring, humorous in a nice way, helping the people feel comfortable, if they lose help them to not feel bad, do not criticize anyone-HAVE FUN

Answer 6

An exaggerated appreciation for crushed velvet, oily charm and a quick, forgiving wit.

Answer 7

Personality personality personality

Answer 8

Humor, Intelligence, charm and being able to think on your feet.

Answer 9

I think people see in you more than you see in yourself. so the big question is..... are you made for it, if you're not, people will know..... how do you know if you're made for it? you have to do a common thing (show hosting) in an uncommon way, better than anyone else....

Answer 10

The key ingredients to a great game show host are as follows:



1. Charisma, or more specifically empathy, the ablitly to put people who are nervious in front of cameras and anxious about the game at ease.



2. Audience Acknowledgment, the ablity to engage the in-studio, and at home watchers so they feel as if they are participating in the game.



3. Humor, uncomfortable situations, loss of the game and everything in between should be met with nonconfrontational humor that can be enjoyed by the contestants and the audiences.



4. Pacing...keep the game and the contestants moving along at a pace that the audience can easly keep up with, yet is not so slow as to invite boredom.



Good luck, Bill and nice horses!

Answer 11

Now your commercials were so so, but because you're William Shatner people watched them, and because you'll be hosting this game show people will at first watch you. But if you're not interesting to your audience, forget it! No matter how great the game show, if the audience thinks you're uninteresting (i.e., boring), you're history. How do you become interesting? First, and above all else, if there's no humor on your part, people will tune you out. Second, know your material. Alex Travek [sic?] of Jeopardy every now and then includes an interesting bit of trivia after the contestent reveals the answer (or even if he/she can't) which gives the audience the impression that this guy really knows his stuff (although the answer was probably provided by the research staff). The audience wants a smart host. Third, and finally, don't remind the audience who you are. They already know who you are. Good luck. May the show live long and prosper!

Answer 12

William Shatner would do ok as a game show host. He is animated enough. He can adlib ok on the talk shows too.



The secrete to being a good game show host is to have a good game show. Then you got to stick to it.



William Shatner has had three successful series. One is a cult classic which will be around a long time after he is gone. Game show hosts can not command the same amount of money as that old boy does.



I think he would get board doing a game show though. Which is something a game show host can not do from the view point of the producer. A truly successful game show is longevity.



Wheel Of Fortune, Jeopardy, and The Price Is Right are long time runners. Those game shows actually have different hosts in different countries. A game show specific to William Shatner would have a hard time playing around the world.



People would tune in. If the game show had a great gimmick, it would be successful with or without William Shatner. Family Feud is an example of that type of game show as it has had many different hosts. If it be a great game show, Shatner most certainly could host it.

Answer 13

I would say that the key ingredient for the host himself or herself is the ability to get both the contestants and the audience to be participants in the show's theme, which depends on the type of game involved. Some game shows act as cliffhangers, with the thrill of the show resting on the dramatic aspects of the game. In this case, the host has to make the show play as a drama. In others, the game show acts as a participation game, where the viewers play along with the game, shouting answers at the TV. In those instances, the host acts like a forum leader of the like, bringing out the game aspect in the players, both on screen and off.

Answer 14

Being a good game show host is about who you are, what you are, what you do, what you aren't, and what you don't do. Here some of what I think those key ingredients are:



1) Good contacts



2) Good representation



3) It helps to be famous (in a good way) already.



4) The ability to look as though you are genuinely happy and enjoy who you are with no matter how much of an idiot the person is.



5) The ability to do number 4 on a regular basis without going insane.



6) Being on a good game show will help the host look better.



7) Charisma



8) A good look for the camera



9) A good public speaking voice



10) The ability to smooth out problems or surprises immediately and to make the best of them.



11) To be perky and sympathetic to the losers at the same time without doing too much or too little or one or both.



12) To have a sidekick or assistant that compliments the host and the show.



13) When the host does other spots in movies or TV that he or she only picks spots that will compliment or enhance his or her image as the game show host.



14) To not mess up in real life and get arrested or something like that.



15) The game shows host should have all of his or her own hair.



16) White teeth.

Answer 15

Shatner, I'd love to see you host a game show. The trouble is, if you are considering taking over TPiR, I do not believe it would bode well. Although it is true that if I had to choose someone to take over, it would be you, I do not believe it will ever be the same and therefore does not matter what you do there. Bob Barker has made himself as much, if not more, a part of TPiR than the games themselves. Hosting it after Barker will be a disaster for the fool who tries. Your ideal host spot for TPiR will be the place after Barker's successor makes a blazing failure of himself. Hold out, I say.



If this inquiry is in regards to a new game show, it's true, a quirky host can make a game show (think Weakest Link or Deal or No Deal), but those games do have a certain watchability. The appeal of shows like Inquisition are based almost completely on the eerie voice of the Inquisitor; without him, the show is a random question multiple choice quiz.



As to what REALLY makes a game show host, Shatner? The only man who could tell you is Chuck Woolery. The man has hosted more game shows than the total shows hosted by Tom Bergeon. No, wait, that might not be true. Bergeron is a media whore. He's like the Paris Hilton of television hosts without all the intrigue and wonder about the next time he'll get naked.



How about this? Send me one of the game show ideas you've been throwing around, and I'll tell you if you can fly it.

Answer 16

I haven't studied this carefully, and I am not a great game show watcher, so my advice is pretty generic.



That said: Look at the game shows that have consistently high ratings. Part of what results in that is the show itself. (e.g. Jeopardy). Part of it is the pretty assistants (e.g. Wheel of Fortune), and part of it is the host (Monty Hall, Bob Barker, Richard Dawson). A dog of a game show may not be helped if Governor Arnold is hosting in the nude, (but then again it might.)



Bill Shatner has significant recognition and would no doubt have some "draw power". The question is, how to package him. What type of game show would be a good fit, and does the show have the necessary hooks to draw a consistent audience.



If I were Mr. Shatner, I would try and get ahold of Richard Dawson and have a good long chat or two. After all he did the crossover between television actor, game show host and film star. He did the game show host so well they used him in the film "Running Man".



And so that is where I would go to find out whether and how I fit as a possible game show host if I were in Mr. Shatner's shoes.

Answer 17

If we look at two of the newer game shoes in the U.S., 1 vs. 100 & Deal or No Deal, we can see that Howie Mandel, a comedian, plays off of the situation while maintaining a fairly serious demeanor while Bob Saget from 1 vs. 100 more often then not makes jokes. Of the tree or four episodes of 1 vs. 100, I have seen several situations where a joke was either not laughed at or completely lost on the player. Also, I have net to hear anyone at work or out on the town talk about 1 vs. 100. On the other hand, Howie Mandel lets the player make most of the jokes and responds with humorous witticisms. The result: A festinating show that keeps people tuning in for more AND talking about it during the week. from your many varied roles you had to play in the original series Star Trek, and in the many wonderful films and not to mention the refreshingly good advertisements you made. The combination of the serious actor and the comedic actor is in such a subtle blend that it does leave one wondering up until the punchline or consummation of the scene whether or not you are in serious or comedic mold. I believe that this will take you in so many diverse directions on your new show that you will keep contestants and audiences in thrilled suspense to see what is going to happen next. I am most impressed by the ability you have to poke fun at your self and be the brunt of some of the jokes.

Answer 18

To begin, the keyword in the phrase "game show" is the word "show". Some of the audience will be more interested in the game aspect of the program, but most people will watch because it is a show. Some really good games do not succeed because of poor show quality, while some shows with games that have many flaws do quite well as it comes off rather well as a show.



Being that most game shows have as its cast the host, the contestants, and occasionally the audience, the quality of the show will rest primarily with them. An audience is almost impossible to control from a selection viewpoint. The contestants are selected by the show's producers, so there's a significant amount of casting that results from that. That leaves the role of the host to complete the casting, and as the host is the principal constant, the qualities for a long-running series rest on him or her.



I would say that the key ingredient for the host himself or herself is the ability to get both the contestants and the audience to be participants in the show's theme, which depends on the type of game involved. Some game shows act as cliffhangers, with the thrill of the show resting on the dramatic aspects of the game. In this case, the host has to make the show play as a drama. In others, the game show acts as a participation game, where the viewers play along with the game, shouting answers at the TV. In those instances, the host acts like a forum leader of the like, bringing out the game aspect in the players, both on screen and off.



For both kinds mentioned above, a host is like a conductor of and orchestra, and the great conductors can turn even sub-par contestants into decent actors within the game. Usually this is done by being able to read the personalities of the contestants and interact in a way that improves their performance. Also, the conductor appears to interact with the audience, both in the studio and on the television, having it appear as he or she knows them. Probably this is best summed up as a type of charisma or charm that appropriate to the show's format.



One other major ingredient that a great game show host has is the knowledge of the game itself. All of the charisma in the world will be useless if the host doesn't appear to understand the show itself. It's not difficult for a host to be knowledgeable of the show, but this means that the host cannot just show up and walk through the game. Preparation beforehand is important, even if it is just to know how the game will evolve over the course of a given episode.



Hope that helps.

Answer 19

Game show hosting is easy....just don't get too full of yourself, which you are very capable of doing and have done in the past. The greatest game show host ever was Bob Barker. He didn't stall the audience (like Regis in Who Want to Be a Millionare.....I don't need a story about why a particular question has relevence, just answer the damn question).



Too many game shows out now are VERY guilty of doing this, stalling the audience because networks are trying to fill an hour slot with a 30 minute game show. Don't stall. It's very annoying and it's definitely NOT building any suspense. You can interact with the audience and make jokes here and there, but once you turn on your patented Shatner-charm past 6 (on a scale from 1 to 10) chances are your game show will be great for 9 episodes, then audiences will become very bored with you, as every show show will be the same.

Answer 20

Mr. Shatner,

As a long time fan, I think you have the necessary ingredients from your many varied roles you had to play in the original series Star Trek, and in the many wonderful films and not to mention the refreshingly good advertisements you made. The combination of the serious actor and the comedic actor is in such a subtle blend that it does leave one wondering up until the punchline or consummation of the scene whether or not you are in serious or comedic mold. I believe that this will take you in so many diverse directions on your new show that you will keep contestants and audiences in thrilled suspense to see what is going to happen next. I am most impressed by the ability you have to poke fun at your self and be the brunt of some of the jokes. If we just had more people like you to be an example to the world, we might not be suffering from so much injured pride out there today. Fare Well and Prosper Long... :)

Answer 21

The quick and easy answer would certainly be Charisma, but I believe you already know this. So let's dig a little deeper.



One thing in common all the GREAT game show hosts have in common (Bob Barker, Alex Trebek, Pat Sajak, and even the newest hit Howie Mandel) is that while they are humorous from time to time, they are NOT continually in comic mode. In fact, they are more or less the "strait men" to the comedy of either the players or the naturally occurring situation within the game.



In contrast, the less successful are often the more annoying hosts and the witless or sedated hosts. The hosts that try to force comedy into the show can’t be as successful as those that allow it to occur naturally because not everyone shares the same sense of humor and what I find humorous you may not. However, strangely enough, most people find the unexpected to be entertaining if not humorous.



If we look at two of the newer game shoes in the U.S., 1 vs. 100 & Deal or No Deal, we can see that Howie Mandel, a comedian, plays off of the situation while maintaining a fairly serious demeanor while Bob Saget from 1 vs. 100 more often then not makes jokes. Of the tree or four episodes of 1 vs. 100, I have seen several situations where a joke was either not laughed at or completely lost on the player. Also, I have net to hear anyone at work or out on the town talk about 1 vs. 100. On the other hand, Howie Mandel lets the player make most of the jokes and responds with humorous witticisms. The result: A festinating show that keeps people tuning in for more AND talking about it during the week.



Look at it this way, of the characters you have plaid on the Big and Little screen, Kirk was perhaps the most successful. Not just because Star Trek was well received, but because Jim Kirk, although serious and respectable, was quite capable of finding the humor in ordinary situation and playing off of it. He was well liked as a character and you were well received as the portrayer of that character. Much the same can be said for the T.J. Hooker character as well.



When you hosted Rescue 9/11 you were serious because of the serious nature of the show. Although a game show is not nearly as serious, it isn't a stand up comedian stage either. So balance is in order.



I suppose the one thing to remember, and this is why I think some game show hosts don’t do so well, is that the audience tunes in to see what happens to the players. The show is about the players and the prizes, the 'host' is there to facilitate the fun, not to generate it himself.



Knowing your previous work, I think we may be in for a fun show, so long as you don't go all Esperanto on the audience. ;-)

Answer 22

Mr. Shatner,



1. CARE genuinely about the show and the contestants. Make the viewers believe that this is not just the next gig on your resume.

2. Have the COURAGE to be yourself, not who you think the viewers want you to be. We have seen you in so many different roles, through so many prisms, but this may very well be the first vehicle through which we get to see William Shatner.

3. You may not nail your first show, but have the CONFIDENCE to move forward and look at the opportunity as a chance to grow and develop in the role of game show host.

4. Stay CALM when things go awry as they often can in a game show format. Even better, show a little humor.

5. Show a measure of CANDOR. Do give the American public a glimpse into your creative soul.

6. Demonstrate a knowledge of the CULTURE of your contestants. America has gotten a lot more multicultural since the days of Truth or Consequences.

7. Be in firm CONTROL of the show. As the host, we expect you to set the appropriate tone and atmosphere.



Good luck!!



Jimmy, a long time fan!

Answer 23

If we look at two of the newer game shoes in the U.S., 1 vs. 100 & Deal or No Deal, we can see that Howie Mandel, a comedian, plays off of the situation while maintaining a fairly serious demeanor while Bob Saget from 1 vs. 100 more often then not makes jokes. Of the tree or four episodes of 1 vs. 100, I have seen several situations where a joke was either not laughed at or completely lost on the player. Also, I have net to hear anyone at work or out on the town talk about 1 vs. 100. On the other hand, Howie Mandel lets the player make most of the jokes and responds with humorous witticisms. The result: A festinating show that keeps people tuning in for more AND talking about it during the week.



Look at it this way, of the characters you have plaid on the Big and Little screen, Kirk was perhaps the most successful. Not just because Star Trek was well received, but because Jim Kirk, although serious and respectable, was quite capable of finding the humor in ordinary situation and playing off of it. He was well liked as a character and you were well received as the portrayer of that character. Much the same can be said for the T.J. Hooker character as well.

Answer 24

I think you have the necessary ingredients from your many varied roles you had to play in the original series Star Trek, and in the many wonderful films and not to mention the refreshingly good advertisements you made. The combination of the serious actor and the comedic actor is in such a subtle blend that it does leave one wondering up until the punchline or consummation of the scene whether or not you are in serious or comedic mold. I believe that this will take you in so many diverse directions on your new show that you will keep contestants and audiences in thrilled suspense to see what is going to happen next. I am most impressed by the ability you have to poke fun at your self and be the brunt of some of the jokes. If we just had more people like you to be an example to the world, we might not be suffering from so much injured pride out there today. Fare Well and Prosper Long..

Answer 25

The key ingredients of a great game show host would be attitude, looks and personality. Of which you have them all Mr. Shatner, you also have a funny disposition because as Mr. Bob Barker could most likely tell you. You never know what can and will happen and you have to be able to roll with the punches especially since you are doing a most likely live show at least 5 days a week.

Answer 26

First, let the game play. I hate all the small talk between contestants and the questions or decisions... Example.. Deal or No Deal... HAS ANYONE EVER TAKEN THE FIRST DEAL... We don't need to know how many cases are still left and we don't need to know what happens if the person takes the first deal... Deal or No Deal would be a better game show without all the gibber jabber between offers... Game play is to slow and there are two reasons... Howie talks too much and says the same stuff over again and the constestants have to explain everything, like in 1 vs. 100. I don't care why they are choosing the answer, either take the money, take the mob or answer the stinking question.... I don't need to know the entire thought process of how the contestant came to their conclusion... Just play the game...



So if Shatner wants to be a good game show host... Then tell the constestant what they need to know, not what they already know, and don't be a comedian, because your not...

Answer 27

The most important thing that I want in a show host is integrity.



In other words, a good show host is someone that listeners can learn from and feel comfortable with because they have good reasons to trust the show host.



As an example, a good show host would refuse to promote any product that he/she has not tested or had tested and researched extensively and refuses to say anything about the product that is not a fact.



Suppose a company wanted the show host to promote magnets that clamp around a fuel line to improve fuel millage in an automobile; the show host would get samples and have them tested or the show host might drive a trip with the magnets and repeat the trip without them. He would use cruise control to make sure that both trips were driven at the same speed. Then he would record the results. Naturally, it is best to have the tested done by a test lab who is even more scientific about it.



If the magnets did not help fuel millage, the show host would refuse a contract to advertise for the company promoting the magnets. Not only that, the show host would talk about the product on the air and tell why he/she refused to advertise the product.



That is only one example of integrity. A good show host would refuse to say anything on the air that is misleading, even if this level of integrity costs him his job.



Another example is that a show host will not hide mistakes or minimize them. Suppose that the show host found out that he something he said during a show is wrong when he learned later that his source was mistaken. The show host would spend significant time during the next show making sure that all the viewers/listeners know about the mistake and know what the correction is.



Again, a good show host is someone that listeners can learn from and feel comfortable with because they have good reasons to trust the show host.



I think you get the picture.

Answer 28

The audience must be able to identify with you....everyone is saying Charisma is important and it has it's place...BUT in my opinion charisma is only important for an unknown person first starting out......for William Shatner I doubt very much that it would play into it..... William Shatner is already and established and famous Hollywood icon....and people have already have an opinion of him....no, charisma is not a key parameter.



The key for a great game show host is the humor, the game itself and the contestants that appear on the game.....the host is the key "moving part" of the mechanism so to speak....what keeps everything moving smoothly... but let's face it if the game itself is not entertaining OR the contestants are not enjoyable to watch playing the game then the show will flop.....whether the host is good or not......it's those 3 things.



p.s. your roast as seen on Comedy Central was hilarious.....

Answer 29

A great gameshow host toys with the guests: flirting, kissing, subtle mockery. A great host must also know how to make the most mundane details seem absolutely fascinating. I believe you exude an enthusiasm that is big and bright without being over the top to the point that it seems like a used car salesman hitting on my step-mom while she's pumping gas at the Quicky Mart. Man, you're going to get to kiss a lot of women. And those women, in turn, will live the rest of their lives telling all who will listen that moist lips of William Shatner once rested upon their flesh. Everybody wins - just as it should be on a game show.

Answer 30

Here's the deal.



You'll need all the stuff that many of the other respondents have mentioned already: charisma, quick wit, infectious smile/laugh, and the ability to easily take a back seat to the contestants. After all, the contestants are the reason (as an extension of the viewing public) the show is a success.



One thing I haven't read, possibly because I didn't look beyond the first page, but that I think is important is that you as the host have to believe in your product (or to a more cynical person, at least Come across as believing in your product)--in this case the show.



The other thing that I've thought about is the indispensability of having a good sidekick. One that clearly has a subordinate role to your role as host, but that has an important role. A couple of the more successful game shows have had sidekicks (i.e. Wheel of Fortune, The Price is Right), while others have used celebrity guests to fulfill the shoes of a sidekick (i.e. $25,000 Pyramid, Password). Still other shows have been successful without having a sidekick at all (i.e. Jeopardy, Millionaire), though these types of shows completely without sidekicks tend to be quiz shows with trivia questions.



I hope this helps you in your quest for finding yourself as a game show host. Good luck to you, Mr. Shatner.

Answer 31

I have watched the PIR since I was a young boy. People are used to him and his style as host. You have some big shoes to fill however you can fill them. Bill, I am also a Star Trek fan and you have done wonderfully in role of Kaptian Kirk. You may not want to hear that. In recent years you have not lost any respect in my eyes because you were cheasy. I think you were funny. Just please don't make any more albums.



The key ingredients are

1. Be you.

2. Be Bill.

3. Do things your way.

4. Respect those that came before you.

5. Do not change the set. The 70's are returning."

6. Kiss the women.



The only thing I would really change is the next person to bid one dollar more then the last bidder needs to be smacked. I will always be a fan and you will do great at the job. Thanks, Scott

Answer 32

In my opinion it takes more than just dedication and commitment to your work. You really have to enjoy the game that you are hosting. If you are having fun, than you are more likely to impact the guests mood as well.



Be yourself, everyone knows you so don't try to be the same as other game show hosts. Look at what made each of the famous hosts what they are. Charisma and a true connection to the people.



I think you have this in you Mr Shatner, and you would make a wonderful game host for you have a great sense of humor and when i see you on TV you make the people laugh around you even at your own expense sometimes. That is what it takes to be a good host I think, and a little creativity and imagination to be unique will help you stand out.



Rick S

Answer 33

Capt Kirk or Mr. Shatner:



Here are key ingredients:



1. Keep a smiling even if it is necessary to interrupt a chatty contestant! You must be in control like you commanded the Starship Enterprise (:



2. Humor (preferably dry humor and not over-the -top type--that it becomes a distraction). Do not embarass or insult any of the game contestants if you revert to humor though. It is an art that you cannot rehearse--it must be timely, but not planned. You have the personality to make it work I believe. Be like Spock!



3. Get someone to do a Vulcan hand symbol greeting or get him to show-up from time-to-time. You might try practicing your version of this greeting yourself or simply tape your fingers together to do it. This will get your new game show off to a good start or use it when ratings or low for the gameshow.



4. Give away the check large winning prize or have the producers make up a large oversize check when someone wins big. And you be the one that smile with the contestant and there loveone as the gameshow ends.



5. Get a cross-section of contestant on your show--that is try getting contestant that represent the people who make up the country. Your gameshow needs to stay away from the elitist mindset and make everyday or real people believe they have a chance to walk-away a large winner.



6. Make sure every contestant feel welcome and appreciated. Make sure they go away with something and this does not necessarily need to be a monetary prize.



7. Have a heck of a lot of fun with the people who want to be on a gameshow that you will host.



8. Best regards and wow for getting a chance to answer a question you asked! There should have been something in all of the Star Trek television series that should have modeled what we know today as the internet.

Answer 34

Well if its William Shatner as the game host,just be yourself and never refer or make jokes about star trek. Not that I dont like star trek,but it really ruins the game show host image. William Shatner is very funny and has a happy ,go-lucky appearance to him; this is the main ingredient in "todays world" game show host. Look at Howie Mandell(hes funny,with a happy go-lucky attitude),he has made a stupid idea into a great game show. The pretty girls help as well,so its a must to have pretty girls all around somehow...Well thats it, being funny,happy go-lucky attitude, with lots of pretty women around,it it would be a great addition to any game show...Especially if William Shatner were the host.

Answer 35

Mr. Shatner,



You posess many of the qualities of a good game show host: personality, wit, congeniality, and the ability to act and think on your feet.



What you lack is experience. Experience will teach you that a good game show host:



1) Doesn't make too much fun of the contestants.

They are the bread and butter of the show--not the host. A good host makes a show great by bringing out the personality of the contestants on a show-by-show basis. If you make too much sport of them, they may begin to fear you. "The Weakest Link" was the only show to succeed in the opposite, but it did so because the host-contestant interaction became a huge part of the show, so the viewers could further root for the contestants (or the ascerbic host).



2) Doesn't pretend to be anything but a vehicle to bring out the best in the show.

If you remember that the show comes first, you'll remember that the audience comes before all. They want to play along, answering questions with the contestants, and feel like they're part of the game. Anything you can do to promote that is good.



3) Has fun.

If you look like you're having fun, the contestants can have fun, even under the pressure of winning or losing on national TV. If the host and contestants are having fun, the audience can have fun, too.



4) Uses their gifts.

You have so wonderfully played against your past and your ego--don't stop now. Wield that skill, that effusive personality, to shape the audience experience.



God bless and good luck.

Answer 36

The key ingredients for being a great game show host begins with wit, after wit comes charm, good humor, charisma, spontaneity, along with honesty, which is essential because contestants know what is happening even when the game is not going well, so don't waste their time or yours saying something different. Above all else you have to look good!! Dress sharp, contestants and viewers enjoy watching a well dressed game show host This is what keeps the viewers coming back day after day week after week year after year. A strong voice is good along with knowing the game inside and out because you can be sure the contestants and the viewers do. Show that you appreciate the contestant, this is where the charm comes in, contestants like the personal touch even if it is just a "great to have you here!!!" with a big smile and a direct look into the contestants eye. Thank the contestant when the game is over. . The purpose of wit is to make those tough moments for contestants easier to get past. These 10 ingredients make a great game show host. Wit, Charm Humor, Charisma, Spontaniety, Honesty, Dress, Voice and Appreciation.

Answer 37

Here are some of the things that I see in a successful game show host:



A great game show host is somebody that can make the best out of every situation no matter what the outcome (i.e. somebody who can make a loser feel like a winner). The host needs to be charismatic, charming, and appealing to both younger and older generations (something Bob Barker has done wonderfully with The Price Is Right). A successful game show host in my opinion must be very funny, willing to laugh at anything that may come their way, and have a quick wit to handle any situation. They should also be someone who adds their own original style to a show (I personally believe Howie Mandel has done a great job as host of Deal or No Deal with adding his own personal style to the show). I look for someone that is different in their own unique way (something I definitely believe the great William Shatner can deliver to an audience ;-) ). And most of all is I want a game show host to have fun with the job! I want to see somebody that is having fun on the show and really enjoys being the host of the show. I think that really adds to the experience of the contestants and the viewers. If the host is having fun, it will definitely rub off to the viewers and contestants too! Good luck with your new venture, and I hope to see you back on TV soon!



--

Answer 38

A firm grasp of popular opinion is key, along with the ability to think on your feet. It's hard to maintain a smooth flow of the game when you don't know what to say at the drop of a hat. A very non-dramatic delivery can be important, too...it's sometimes tough not to upstage the game-show contestants. Bob Eubanks on the Newlywed Game was great...he helped pull some entertaining things out of the contestants, but in a respectful way. That's sometimes tough to do, especially with a wide range of personalities as he had on that show. It might be a big help if you could have some say-so in the choice of contestants. Hope this helps...and good luck to you Mr. Shatner!

Answer 39

Mr. Shatner,



There are several elements that I think the hosts I liked best all had. One was a being able to have what appeared to be a natural and genuine rapport with the contestants. I would feel like the host was rooting for the contestant to do well. Another element was humor. When it looked like a host was having fun with the contestants/panelists of the show, it made things more interesting. Appearance is another factor. As much as I liked Louie Anderson as a comedian, I never felt that he pulled off hosting “Family Feud”. Lastly, shows that seem to be nothing more than a vehicle for the host/hostess to prattle on about themselves and don’t try to have the viewers become invested in the contestants never interest me.

Answer 40

You need to be real and down to earth. When I think of the great gameshow hosts, they are the ones that get close to the audience and allow a connection of some sort (kiss,hug, getting picked up and flung over a guys shoulder) If people sitting at home are thinking "If I got on that gameshow I don't know what I would say to the host" there is a problem. Be open and receptive but keep the game flowing. Be on the contestant's side and show that you care. People want to feel like the only thing between this contestant and the big prize at the end of the winding trail is the "network" and the host is there to show you the way.

Answer 41

I recognize the suit --that's the same one you wore on opening night for Show Me The Money. Your first contestant was a gas! If you've got any more like him on tap, you're in the money!!!

Okay, as a fellow Canuck, I've got a couple of comments. You do a number of things very well -- you identify with the contestant, you don't swamp them, you let them shine (especially that first guest!) and you quickly got them to say the name of the show for the Dancer/Answers.

Can you come up with some catchword or phrase when you gesture towards the win/lose panel? "Beam me up, Scottie" became a catchword. That's what you need here.

The dancers are a nice idea, but they are underused. Instead of a little hootchie kootchie dance, why not let each one do something unique - a mini solo instead of the mass choreography? But I do like that you join in with the dancing instead of just standing there as so many game show hosts do.

All in all, it's looking good. Way to go William Shatner!

Answer 42

I would say it takes a larger than life personality and the ability to interact with the contestants at a down to earth level. I have noticed some hosts tend to show a somewhat arrogance in their interactions and presentation, and that in my opinion is a big 'no no'.



On that note, I think you would make a great host for a game show Mr. Shatner. You have a fitting personality and are so full of energy and life. You don't take yourself TOO seriously, and I believe that would be of great help if you did decide to become a game-show host. If you are considering a project, I wish you all the luck. Can't wait to see you in your next venture.



Just be friendly! You know how to be friendly...

Answer 43

This biggest mistake I see with new games shows is the pace. The producers don't spend enough time rehearsing and the game action stutters.



There is nothing worse in a game show than making the audience feel uncomfortable (besides feeling anticipation). It makes the host look bad like he's not in control and then the audience feels sorry for the loser because the timing was off or an answer took too long, etc.



Also, in any game show, there needs to be a clear winner. And that person should be celebrated by the host.



Good luck!

Answer 44

Bill, I've been a big fan of yours from your appearance on the twilight zone(shows my age) i think you'll do a great job on the new show though how you can top Boston Legal right now I don't know.

The difference with the game show is that it can't be about you and your talent as an actor. You will have to orchestrate the game in a way that lets the personality's of the contestants come forward, a difficult job to say the least. I liked the attitude you took on the comedy central roast by questioning what right a bunch of losers with no talent had to say anything about you. It played really well and i wonder if that kind of shtick might not serve you as a game host. You have such screen presence and notoriety that playing that off the contestants might be very entertaining. If you can picture the the way Dean Martin use to make those incredible faces on his show when people asked him dumb questions or flubed their lines. As long as you walk the line and poke more fun of yourself than the contestants well still maintaining the flow of the game you'll do great. Thanks for all the entertainment. p.s don't listen to me I'm just a broken down horse player.

Answer 45

First it's the show, if the show too complex or too easy, not fun, or can't get the viewers to stay and watch it then it will not work. the type of game show should be something that people would love to be on such as Let's make a deal, Wheel of fortune, and such. Second it never hurts to have beautiful woman helping and friendly banner with them and the people playing the game. Take a look at Deal or No deal and it's success. It also shows timing by the host is key as well. The best host is one that roots the player, and makes sure that can hold the attention of all watching.



Personally, I think you be great hosting a dating game like a new version of the Dating game.

Answer 46

What ever the so called ingredients are to make a great game show host, William Shatner will surely bring spices never seen before as only he can do. I think there are too many cookie cutter hosts out there and certianly we don't need another. The only thing is, I think people who are fans, including me won't watch it for the game show aspect, but just to watch William Shatner and see what he will do next. Whatever the game, it's really not going to matter, at least to me it won't. I know for sure it will be riot to watch him entertain us. William/Denny/TJ (ok, maybe not TJ, although that is my son's name)/Capt. Kirk, whatever it is next, I am ready to take the next Shatner ride, it has been a blast watching and I can't wait to see more. Live long and prosper my Denny Crane friend.

Answer 47

Quick wit, having the ability to respond quickly to each contestant is one of the reasons I enjoy a watching a host. I think another would be to come across as genuine, I mean there are some fake people out there so try to be sincere. Avoid the whole Richard Dawson deal, man what a pervert. That guy was always kissing or touching women when he greeted them (in his three piece suit!) Maybe I am just jealous...but really he is just wrong. Mr Shatner has been good on the priceline commercials and on the tv show he is on right now, so I would play off of that. He comes across as a little wacky and that is GOOD in my book.

Answer 48

the contestants and the audience to be participants in the show's theme, which depends on the type of game involved. Some game shows act as cliffhangers, with the thrill of the show resting on the dramatic aspects of the game. In this case, the host has to make the show play as a drama. In others, the game show acts as a participation game, where the viewers play along with the game, shouting answers at the TV. In those instances, the host acts like a forum leader of the like, bringing out the game aspect in the players, both on screen and off.

Answer 49

I feel honoured Mr. Shatner. Congrats on the game show host gig !! I love watching you on TV. You look like you're having a good time.

The key ingredients to being a good game show host is too support the contestant. It is one thing to do the game from your arm chair it is quite another actually being there. So making the connection with the contestant is key. Be yourself, I think the only reason Bob Barker has been on so long is that what you see is what you get. Don't be something your not.

Enjoy yourself, which you have been doing very well. Keep the audience in it too. Both Television and in house. If you have the people behind you, You can't fail !!!!!

Nice to see you on TV !!!

From another proud Canadian !!!

Answer 50

In this instance, we're talking about William Shatner, so none of the rules apply. If he's going to be a game show host, then he should play it as 1/3 Denny Crane (from "Boston Legal"), 1/3 Big Giant Head (from "3rd Rock from the Sun"), and 1/3 Richard Dawson, who is the consummate game show host. I would tune in just to watch Shatner -- forget about the show!

Answer 51

Don't plan on following all of the other game show hosts lead when they try to be funny with the small talk provided by the producers and rehearsed answers there is way too much hosting now a days and less gaming. I watch to see if people win not to hear Bob Sagets horrible jokes or Howie Mandel's personal paranoia's. I realize the "edge of your seat commercial breaks are good for business" but they are predictable and annoying. Let Will shoot from the hip sometimes and mainly just be quiet and let the gaming happen. I bet if the concept of the game is good and the Host doesn't rule the airtime you will see better numbers....think of how you could market that...more gaming less chit chat and canned laughter.

Answer 52

Greetings,



It has been a while sense seen on television – and exploring a new frontier in the Game Show industry ruled by other greats will I hope be interesting for you.



You ask for the key “ingredients”. If it is cooking up a game show host idea it would be a recipe of a little pepper and spice, a little of something sweet but nice, the honest taste of truth in fair judgment, yet a bit of a challenge while adding texture and color from a little extra sides to make it appetizing.



In another similarity, you have become a “first officer” to the Captains and Commodores of the company who created the game show. You are respected – and must show respect, but remain firm to the rules of the game. Fair practice and honesty combined with trust and a listening ear to the answers given and the challenges completed while graciously remaining non-byes with a good sense of humor and a little energy in your appearance will keep your contestants attention.



The best way to do this is to imagine yourself in the shoes of the contestants you are going to host. How would you feel – in any situation that you could imagine. Come up with a plan to tackle those times when there is no rule or plan for whatever happens.



Above all – for any game show host – and this goes for any other job anyone has – listen to that unwritten rule. HAVE FUN. No ingredient is right without a little happiness.



Brian R Cross.

Answer 53

The first key ingredient to a successful game show host is having had trouble with tribbles--Shatner did, and look how he has fared!



Secondly, a premier game show host must have an honest sense of self-parody as Shatner has learned during the last twenty-or-so years (he, by many accounts, took himself and his higher-than-thou acting much too seriously back in the day--just ask Sulu and me, when as a starry-eyed child asked The Shat for an autograph he told me I should join his 'William Shatner Fellowship'--for a fee, of course--sure, Bill--poor little chil'ens have buttlaods of cash. Atleast he took pity on my naive *** and signed my Wonderbread trading card and TV Guide cover!!! Nice.).



Next, a does of NATURAL, not forced or schlocky humor is needed. Then, a bit sexinesss would help.



Last, and most importantly, a game show host must have battled a horny, in-the-zone Spock and survived with most faculties intact to be the greatest ever.



Well, I suppose all this circumlocution/babbling proves that

The Shat would/will be the grandest of all game show hosts. Go get 'em, Bill!



Loads of intergalactic love,

-tiny

www.myspace.com/tinymonsterinvasion

Answer 54

Well Bill, I think the key ingredients to a great game show host is one that meets the following 10 criteria:

1. Should be an Emmy-winning and Golden-Globe winning actor

2. Played a title role in the T.V series T.J. Hooker

3. Worked as a musician

4. Be a bestselling author

5. Experience with production and directing

6. Dedicated breeder of American Quarter Horses

7. Must be an avid Philanthropist

8. Involved with charitable organizations

9. Star in the ABC drama "Boston Legal"

10. Should have appeared in at least on episode of "Star Trek"

Answer 55

What it takes to be a great game show host?



1. Don't be William Shatner

2. Captivate the audiance, get them into the game just as much as the playing contestants, Bob Barker did it for year's.

3. Be enjoyable, humurous, and just have fun without being a stick in the mud.

4. Don't be William Shatner...come on, he has the same voice dialog in everything since star trek. I think that he actually think's he "is" Captian James T. Kirk.

5. Go back to answers' 1 and 4

Answer 56

The key ingredients to a great game show host are simple

1. Genuinely enjoy hosting. Your smiles will be more real and your body language will communicate a sense of fun.

2. Have a quick wit. Things will not always go smoothly on a show, so the ability to roll with the unexpected will make the show more entertaining. Flustered hosts are a downer.

A good host can turn a mediocre show into something worth watching (provided the game is any good).



Seer

Answer 57

First and foremost, the main ingredient to being a great game show host is presence. This not only refers to you being there and the audience recognizing that fact, but also it involves the presence of mind and knowing exactly what the audience wants. While a large part of a game show is to see everyday people win it big, just being able to see the host is a thrill on its own for many people. Therefore, another important quality to have is charisma, which by your successful career, you obviously have. Use this to your advantage while hosting a show, but don't rely too much on this trait. Realize that even the most charismatic person on the planet can become annoying to someone if they aren't careful about the way they present themselves.

So besides relying on presence and charisma, it is also very important to be able to think on the fly and possess some amount of wit. There will undoubtedly be some situations that will be completely random and sporadic, and one needs to be prepared to deal with anything, no matter how unusual or odd. This can range from an accidental word usage to possibly even an extremely emotional contestant who greatly expresses their feelings right there on stage.

Finally, one more important ingredient that is required in the recipe is a sense of humor. The host needs to not only keep the audience and television viewers entertained, but they also need to be able to bring relief to a tense situation, or lighten the mood if you will. After viewing your Comedy Central Roast, however, I really do not feel that you will need to work much on this particular trait, as you already have shown yourself to not only be able to act funny, but also be the butt of many jokes.

Overall, I feel that you would be a successful game show host as long as you follow a few simple rules.

1) Always have fun and enjoy yourself.

2) Get to know the game inside and out.

3) Not every day is going to be the same, there will be ups and downs.

Good luck in your endeavor to become a game show host and I look forward to viewing the show if/when it comes on the air.

Answer 58

The key ingredients to a great game show host are basic, but most hosts are lacking in one or more areas. The first is personality a game show host has to have a great personality or he/she is not going to grab an audiences attention. The second is he/she needs to have a little humor about them. A little joke here and there will keep your audiences attention and will keep them coming back again and again if nothing else just to here another joke. The third and most important ingredient a game show host should have is a a great amount of knowledge about the game he/she is hosting. If the audience feels the host knows nothing about the game or even the information the game itself is asking the players than the audience will more than likely will not enjoy the game as nearly as much and will eventually get bored with it. To sum it all up the three key ingredients to a great game show host is personality, a little humor every once in a while, and a good bit of knowledge of the game he/she is hosting.

Answer 59

You most definitely have to have a sense of humor. Another ingredient is to be good with people, to be charismatic and just to have fun with it and to be yourself, to let the world know that this is the real William Shatner because this time you are not acting in Star Trek or Boston Legal, you are being yourself. I am sure everyone is going to love it. Mr Shatner, I am sure you are going to be a great game show host. Good Luck!

Answer 60

I have always wanted to be a game show host. I had a career in radio for awhile and got to live it once on the air. The keys to being a great game show host are.....

1. Be real....dont be a schlocky host....dont overact or dramatize.

2. Keep the show moving. Knowing when to say something and not say something is key.

3. Be funny but dont do a stand up act. Quick witted one liners are much better then a whole routine.

4. Know how everything in the show works. You should know the rules of the game, backwards and forwards. Its not like some of the old shows or even jeopardy where you need a judge.



These are some of the attributes that a great gameshow host should have.

Answer 61

The sum is always greater than its parts...but what really gives someone the "it" factor to make it on TV?



Top 5 "it" factors for making it in the rough and tumble world of TV game show hosting:



1. Ad lib/Camera awareness: Though most shows are edited and scripted a host must always be on his toes, able to respond to any situation. This is especially important when in front of a live audience, something goes wrong or you have a few seconds to fill before a cut to commercial. The camera is always on and a host has to know where to turn, how to stage himself etc.



2. Have a gimmick: It might not seem clear on some TV shows but every good host has a gimmick. It's something than can be kind of lightheartedly goofy. It makes people feel at ease, draws them in and keeps them coming back. For Barker it was keeping his long mic after it went out of fashion, for Howie on Deal or No Deal it's his bald head, for Sajak it is his hair... the list goes on and on. Mr. Shatner has interesting characteristics and could develop something for his show...probably some saying or introduction because his voice is so unique.



3. Confidence/Intelligence: A game show host must have enough confidence to shine through everything he does - if he doesn't he's a good actor and fakes it until he makes it. The host must also have enough "oopmhf" to correct incorrect answers with an authoratative yet friendly no. A little bit of intelligence always helps add to confidence, including doing research on what the show content is about, learning from past hosts and working with the technical/editorial staff to put on the best show possible.



4. Making the contestants the stars of the show: Like a good dinner host a good game show host makes everyone feel at home. From the obligatory introductions to friendly interaction the host is the moderator in this modern-day play of comedy and error - highlighting the drama of making the correct selection to congratulating the winner and consoling the loser.



5. Charisma/Personal Style: Luckily Mr. Shatner has this in spades. He already has a unique style (it's like Frank Sinatra mixed with a cheesy lounge lizard) but it works, it really does! A new generation of fans are enamored with his subtle self-depreciating sell-out style, and I don't mean this in a negative way. Shatner has what it takes and knows how to use it. The game show world will be a perfect fit for his personality and style.

Answer 62

The MOST important thing to being a great game show host is knowing the game and rules backwards and forwards. To get there, it could help to have tried playing the game youself several times. If you are fully comfortable with the game play, you can keep that moving along smoothly, and then you are able to "loosen up" and have fun with the contestants.



The second most important thing to remember is that the show isn't all about you---it's about the game and the contestants. Your job is to administer the game smoothly and let the contestants shine, not to promote yourself or other projects. The great game show hosts of the past and present have had both of these attributes, even if "warmth" and "charisma" have perhaps been lacking.



The third thing for a question and answer-type show is to preview the questions and if needed practice so that you can pronounce words smoothly.



Fortunately, all of these can be practiced and done without having the unknown "it" of charm and charisma, which of course you have. However, you could be the most charming and charismatic person on earth, and if you botch these ingredients, your show will bomb. So, good luck with this!

Answer 63

First off, a great game show host needs to have a game show that doesn't suck. The premise of the game would need to be original and fun, but not so difficult as to keep the audience at home from playing along. The game would also have to provide some sort of recognizable penalty for not succeeding, but promote the idea that it desire's success.



A good host has a range of responsiblities.

Game spokesperson: The host is the face of the show, he or she would need to be able to communicate with anyone they faced.

Referee: The host would also need to have the skills to keep the game moving, not getting bogged down in the minute details, but keep the players on a roll.

Humbleness: Okay, that may not be the right term, but the game show should focus on the game and it's players, not the host. He or she plays a part, but needs to allow the game not to center on the fact that he or she is "the It" of the show.

Voice: A decent voice that doesn't quiver or stutter or come out jumbled. Clear communication in an easy to understand manner.

Sense of Humor: Being able to tide over the players and the audience with some good one-liners. Not only is this good for making people at home laugh, but it also could be used to ease or increase the stress on the player to increase the 'drama' of the situation.



I also find that most good game shows have hosts who give the appearance that they could play the game they host fairly well.

Answer 64

William Shatner! This is what I want to see! William Shatner as a game show host! I wandered why I always wanted the Priceline commercials to last longer than 30 seconds and I know why. Because I love watching William Shatner... doing anything. It could be a reality tv show, and if William Shatner was just sitting at a table eating, it would still be interesting and entertaining! My only hope is the ABC suits give Mr. Shatner full latitude of his role as host. Letting him adlib and do what he does best! I personally can't wait to see this! Bill, be sure and ham it up, the times I've enjoyed most watching game shows, are when the likeable host breaks out of character and makes personal jokes and chat with the contestants. Think, Win, Lose, or Draw!!! We've all enjoyed watching Burt Reynolds and other celebrities on that show be themselves and inject their own personality into the show, showing us more of who they really are and less of their character roles.

Answer 65

I submit that the character of the host must depend on the desired nature of the show.



If the show is meant to be "serious" (for lack of better terms), say Jeopardy, Millionaire...the host needs to sell it that way, and develop a character accordingly. Likewise for shows that are funny/self-depreciating or light-hearted entertainment (Family Feud).



Shows that don't have the host in line with the show's premise will jar the audience. For example, I personally find Deal or No Deal jarring because the participants/audience are keyed up, stressed and caught in the moment...and then the host throws out a cheesy joke. The two emotions don't mix...the latter detracts from the former.



A bad host doesn't kill a good show. A good show will simply replace the host and move on. A bad show can survive with good host. What kills a show is when the show and host don't click - regardless of which element is good or bad.



All the interpersonal elements mentioned thus far are perfectly valid - charisma, relating to participants/audience, quick thinking, proper humour...but if those elements are not couched in terms that relate to the show, they won't even matter.



Of course, because we're talking William Shatner - the audience will begin with certain prejudices and expectations of him as a host. It will be interesting to review the audience metrics and see the ratio of target audience VS Shatner fans. I, for one, will watch one episode just for him...and I haven't even looked to see what the show is.

Answer 66

If this inquiry is in regards to a new game show, it's true, a quirky host can make a game show (think Weakest Link or Deal or No Deal), but those games do have a certain watchability. The appeal of shows like Inquisition are based almost completely on the eerie voice of the Inquisitor; without him, the show is a random question multiple choice quiz.

Answer 67

Key ingredients that every host uses would make for extremely boring television. Every actor doesn't approach a part in the same way. The public basically knows Mr. Shatner as an actor/entertainer. They don't know him as a regular person. I think he should talk to the contestants as if he were talking with family and friends. People will respond well to that because it's new. People Magazine has been very successful at providing the same service. Mr. Shatner can gradually let the public in, and reinvent himself as an entertainer at the same time.

Answer 68

Good articulation, speaking concisely with no stagger speaking are key ingredients to becoming a great game show host.



Mr. Shatner, don't be a game show host. Your best performance was on the "Twilight Zone" when you portrayed a man on an airplane on his way home from a mental hospital. You're too good an actor for hosting a game show. Although it pays well, being a game show host is pretty much "bottom of the barrel" as far as entertaining goes, and that also applies to the dopey cast members from "The View."

Answer 69

The game must be one that requires some level of intelligence to play. Not necessarily knowledge (although that could help). The game should allow participants to deploy various strategies (I.E. the game shouldn't just entail luck). The game must have a winner, or winners at the end of each showing. Winners could go on to the next showing. The game has to be simple enough so that viewers can understand the basic rules quickly. The host must be thoroughly knowledgeable of the rules, strategies, and not show favoritism toward players (a la Jeopardy). If this is a knowledge game, then the host should be perceived as one who is knowledgeable of the subject matter. If this is just a "plain dumb" game, then the host needs to be a people person who can ad-lib and add humor as an additional entertainment factor (a la Family Feud)..

Answer 70

I think that when you are natural and just yourself. There is nothing more unappealing than some fake , smarmy perfectly formal guy trying to lead the show. Say what you think on gut reaction, if you make any error or screw up, laugh at yourself and just keep going. The audience feels the game through your emotions as much as the contestants. William Shatner has such a natural appeal just being himself.....or Denny Crane....or Capt. Kirk...or as a game show host!

Answer 71

Has pizazz.

Helps the contestants be comfortable.

If replacing a well known game show host, you need to be well known.

Make the audience feel they are a part of the show.



I think William Shatner would be great at replacing Barker if that is the idea. It shows in the movies he has been in recently as well as this "Show Me the money". I think he would be the best out of the ones that I heard been suggested for the replacement.

Answer 72

Mr. Shatner: Here are my thoughts on a great game host...do not make the show the William Shatner"look at me show". No one likes a show off host. Do not make jokes about the contestant but enjoy a joke with the contestant. Most of all

HAVE FUN...

Answer 73

I've never cared for you Mr. Shatner; I saw your nasty personality beneath your 'act'.



To confirm this long held belief, a few years ago I happened to be standing near you at the airport baggage claim. I tried to be friendly with a 'hello'. You made an extremely rude comment to me and walked off with your female companion. You had been in attendance of an international horse show in Lexington, Ky...the one where a 12 year old girl was killed. Of course, I did not put this together until I read about it in the newspaper later. That was still no reason to treat me like a 'roach'.



My wish is to see less of you on television. Any show in which you are involved, I turn OFF. You are not a hero in my eyes, not even a very decent actor.



Somehow along the way, you knew the right people and were around at the right time...in order to get where you are...which I don't believe you deserve.

Answer 74

The key ingredients to make a great game show host are high charisma; being charming, nice smile, being a fun person, being a nice compassionate person. Being able to interact with the audience on a personal level; like you've been friends forever. I have no doubt William Shatner will make a great game show host.

Answer 75

I think that a sense of humor is probably one of the top things a great game show host has to have. They have to appear to have a true desire for the contestants to win and seem sincerely disappointed when they lose. A little amount of personal body contact is also a good thing whether it be a handshake or a pat on the shoulder.



I think William Shatner is great and I can hardly wait to see him. Hopefully, this is not the end of Boston Legal. . .

Answer 76

Hello Mr. Shatner !!!!!!!!!



The key ingredients (in my opinion) to a great game show host are: (a) the game show must be interesting; (b) the host must convey the first part to the audience; and (c) the host's personality will come across and make the show even better.



THE SUCCESS OF THE SHOW DEPENDS UPON THE BACKING OF THE NETWORK HOWEVER !!!!!!!!!!!



Just having William Shatner host a show is an incredible idea. He has the magnetism, personality, and know-how to make anything work.



I'VE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS SHOW FOR A LOOOONNNNNNNGGGGGG TIME.



Good luck Bill !! My favourite actor of all time !!!!

Answer 77

You shouldn't be serious all the time. Especially you, since that's kind of how your personality works. Obviously, the show must have a continuous flow that can't be interrupted by too much attempted humor. But if you play it bizarre and be the zany William Shatner that America has grown to love, they'll eat it up. Unless of course, the idea behind the show puts people to sleep. My favorite host of any game show was Louie Anderson on Family Feud. He definitely played it up, and so can you.

Answer 78

As someone preparing to defend my doctoral dissertation, I would say if you're not a natural born comedian now is not the time to start your career in comedy. If you’re good at jokes, then by all means the jokes really help a lot. I always find that whenever I try to make a joke, it never works! Everyone I know says that I am a very funny person. However, the funny things that I say always flow naturally from the conversation. My most funny comments are never planned. Don't try to be funny! If you have a good sense of humor, it will come out naturally. The worst thing you can do is to try too hard to be funny. Being polite, pleasant, and getting to the point should be your main goal.

Answer 79

First, be good to the people around you who make your show work, from the guy behind the camera to the makeup artist. People can say what they want about charisma and quick thinking, and that's true, but if you're a jerk to your crew, it will influence the quality of the product.



Second, be yourself. You have brought characters to life on many shows, but you have such an incredible fan base that people will come out or tune in just to see you. Give them the real deal, not just an impression of what Bob Barker or Pat Sajak has done. Yes, those guys are great, but so is William Shatner. The world wants to know what it's like to have a real conversation with you. Give the contestants that opportunity, and let them shine in the spotlight.



Third, have fun with it. You have nothing to prove to anyone... you have one of the biggest icons of television history in your portfolio... so forget about the ratings and the critics and the nay-sayers. Go out there and knock 'em dead. Hold nothing back... have the time of your life, and your fans will love every minute of it.

Answer 80

Romulans! lol, j/k. Honesty and humor are great things in a game show host, however it's the game itself that draws an audience. It should be a game anybody could win and all of America will be playing at home such as Wheel of Fortune where most viewers are screaming the answers at the television. And a good game show host is one one who not only can get the studio audience involved but keep the energy of the viewers at home. And a little Star Trek spoof one episode would be hilarious, after all, it is William Shatner! ha ha ha! j/k.

Answer 81

I would say a good sense of humour is something that would make me want to watch even if i didn't like the game.Someone who can bring more then just a game to a show.An outgoing personality and is not a stiff.He shows how comfortable he is in his role as a host.Even adding a twist to the show 2 times a month.Giving people that normally wouldn't be giving a chance to be on a game show or picking people who actually needs what you are offering to win.Anyway what do I know but I hope I could be somewhat of a help.Good Luck on your new show and congratulations it will be great seeing you back on the tv screen.Oh ya getting a bit personal is always good to cause people are always curios about celebrities and there is nothing better then showing how down to earth you are.

Answer 82

William Shatner

Answer 83

Hi Mr. Shatner. As a fellow Kentuckian, I believe you can do anything that you set your mind to doing! A successful game show host must be charismatic. You need to be "real" with your audience members, the contestants AND the viewers at home. Be fun. Be "breezy." Simply be yourself. You've been in "the business" for a very long time. You're great at what you do. Your hoakie sense of humor is very appealing. You keep reinventing yourself and you've continued to get better with age. You're awesome. Good luck! [e-mail]

Answer 84

Some of the best game show hosts ever were the ones with great charisma and an inner charm. Look at Richard Dawson during the Family Feud..a little flirtation got him a very long way. Bob Barker used to be very flirtatious on stage and look at the 35 years he has lasted. I guess if you wanted to be a game show host, Bill, then your are going to have to lose the dead-pan humor and go for the gusto..100 times more than those Priceline commercials. Good luck!

Answer 85

Look at all of the game show greats. Each of them had their own style, so you just have to be yourself. But mix in with that these key elements that all of the greats had.



Keep the game moving - There are some times when blooper or a mistake happens and that itself will being the show to a screeching halt, that is out of your control. Don't get so focused on creating suspense the you slow the show to a screeching halt. Get the feel of the show. A Good game show will create suspense on its own and there are times when you don't need to add to it.



KNOW YOUR GAME!! - Make sure you do all that you can memorize every little detail about this show. What's worse than watching a bad game show? A Host who doesn't know what he is doing. By getting VERY familiar with the details of the show, you can define the pace that it needs and keep it moving(like above) in that pace. It will look a lot better if you make your perfomance look like you have been hosting this show for years.





The Contestants 15 Minutues of Fame - ALWAYS remember that the contestants, NOT YOU, ae the stars of the show. Your job is to be be a cordial host and bring the fun outgoing qualities out of them. The contestants have gone thorugh a lot to be on the show, so let them have their moments. Also, you have to respect the contestants. History has proved that they WILL give the DUMBEST answers you have ever heard in your life. You can have fun and make fun of them wihtout being disrepectful. You can usually tell right off the bat how the contestants are, so you will know your limits.



HAVE FUN - They usually say this to the contestants, but the hosts needs to have fun as well. If the host doesn't enjoy the show then why is he doing it. A game show is not just about winning cash & prizes. It is really just a SUPER SIZED version of a game night someone would have at their house. If you have fun you won't be as nervous about how you are performing and the best part about that is...The viewers won't care either.



These basic elements combined with your own style I think will, in time, put you up there with one of greats. I CERTAINLY think you can do better than Regis Philbin.... I am looking forward to this show!! I hope you and the show have a long run!! Good luck William Shatner.



P.S. You have been a celebrity player on a lot of GREAT and not so great game shows with a LOT of GREAT HOSTS!! If all else fails, let them be your guide.

Answer 86

A good sense of humor and not taking themselves too seriously. But it seems to me that it's more important that the host fit the show. Pat Sajak, Bob Barker, Tom Bergeron, and Alex Trebek are all very different in their personalities yet all very successful. But Alex Trebek wouldn't be a good fit on The Price is Right. So the host needs to fit the show and hopefully that's the case for William Shatner.

Answer 87

Most of what has been listed is important, but I feel that's stating the obvious. The key ingredient is bringing an element of indiviuality. You look at Bob Barker, Alex Trebek, and the other long-time hosts and they all have very distinct personalities. I think it's also important to notice that they have all earned their stardom from hosting their respective show. Most hosts that come into the job already well known don't seem to last for long. Often times it seems they just get bored of doing the same old thing. The last key to game show success I have is to not be Louis Anderson. You can only tolerate that man's voice for so long.

Answer 88

I think spontaneity with wit and humor are key. Build the contestants up, don’t do the pompous Alex Trebek Mr. Know-it-all approach. Everyone has to have a gimmick it seems these days, be it personality or a sidekick that helps out. Ben Stein had Jimmy Kimmel, Pat has Vanna, Howie has a boatload of chicks and Regis is just Regis. Personal I’d try to find some hotty or somebody that is pretty funny. Man, a pretty girl that can tell jokes should make you golden. I’m a middle-aged dude that will volunteer as a guesthost. You could insult me and I’d even let you even throw stuff at me. Heck if that stiff John Melendez can make it on the Tonight Show, just about anyone can be in show business.

Answer 89

Hi, Bill -



Big fan.



From my experience being on a game show (Jeopardy!) I'd say the most important things are:

a) enjoy what you are doing (that carries through the TV screen like you would not believe ... on the other hand, you probably would!)

b) never, ever, talk down to your audience or the contestants. If you are on a show where making fun of a contestant's flub would be fair game, try to show that you are laughing with them, not at them!

c) always remember, it's only a game. Even if there is a lot of money at stake for the contestants, the audience will enjoy it more if it is played for fun. (Hint: so will the contestants. If you can get them to "lighten up," even if only a little bit, the show will likely be more fun--and, thus, successful)

d) after being on a game show for a while, you may want to make a career (or a life) of it. Resist the temptation! There are indubitably a lot of other options for things to do, and you should leave the show when: 1) it shows signs of having "jumped the shark"; 2) you no longer enjoy it; or 3) your contract expires and the terms offered for renewal do not seem advantageous

Answer 90

Looks, teeth(good teeth), a sense of humor, good breath, a sense of style that comes from within and a clothing sponsor that will supply suits and ties. Overall knowledge and good "horse sense" A boisterous laugh, a quick wit and an ability to NOT be repulsed by REAL people, ie overweight, unclean, un professional, very excitable and those who may suffer from severe stage fright. Toughness, I remember Monty Hall getting skewered from an over zealous fan. You need to be able to do a quick recover, shoot from the hip when human error rears it's hysterical head. Lawrence Welk dancing with a woman who's wig fell off. Be prepared for the "Blooper" shows. But then again, after playing Capt. Kirk for 2 years and then hosting the Trekkis conventions....I'm sure you can handle just about anything. I mean if you can take a 48 year old 350lb male in an Engineers Uniform that is 4 sizes too small wearing "Spock" ears asking you how the Green Chick kissed,,,,,,,,You can handle anything!

Answer 91

Honesty and Personality are the two key ingredients for a host to be a great game show host. You may have chrisma, but if your not honest with yourself and others, then the public and your work will show. An outgoing personality is definately needed. You have to be able to talk to others, socialize, and make people feel happy about themselves.



A game show contestant will be nervous, anxious, maybe a little greedy, but over he or she will be in a state of euphoria when he or she is on center stage in front of the television public. With honesty an personality, a great game show host will quell the nervousness and enable the contest to better perform and have an enjoyable experience.



Isn't that what the contestant wants? A fair chance, the opportunity, and the experience. Be honest and have a great personality and the people (contestant and viewers) will love you.

Answer 92

The answer is quite simple, all the great hosts have one thing in common and that is relating to the contestants. Get personal with them. Look at Sajak, Barker, even Dawson they all talked too the contestants and seemed to be sincerely interested in what they had too say. Make the show about them not you. You are just the host and support system, that makes the show appealing to others then everyone likes to feel important and showing them [ contestants ] that they are enjoying thier 15 minutes of fame and giving them the chance to excel in that enviroment will make the show appealing to others and in doing so it makes the host more appealing also.

Just some advice from someone who hasnt been there Study some of the classic shows and watch the interaction between the host and contestants. I suggest the following Price is Right, Wheel of fortune, old Family fued, the Newly Wed Show ,and Lets make a deal.

Answer 93

I think Sincerity is a very important personality trait to let come across on the air, as a game show host.



You don't want to come across as too *schmaltzy* or anything. Let the viewer know you're a friendly face, but not that you're their *best* friend.



And as others have posted, great suits are a nice touch, but be careful -- don't go all flashy and silvery like Regis did on "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?"



P.S. If someone were to try becoming the new host of "The Price is Right," a difficult choice is whether to use Barker's classic long-handled mic or to use something different. As cool as it would be to pay homage with a similar mic, a clip-on lapel mic might be a more interesting idea for a new host. Frees up the hands and allows the new host to be more active and free with their movements, interaction with the audience, etc. Good luck!

Answer 94

Good game show host must always have Charisma!! He's got to know when to tell the jokes, when to make suspense, and how to keep the game moving at it correct speed



There is a reason why Barker (until June) Sajak, Woolery, Trebek, Eubank(somewhere) is still employed and all do have 25+ years experience. They keep it simple. You have some great futures in Todd Newton, (If he ever does another show) Tom Bergeron, Donny Osmond, Bob Saget, and Howie Mandel



but the thing that most shows and host lack are the proper sets and suits. I think Howie would look good in a full suit I think they all would and if we go back to that I think the shows would be better from a visual standpoint

Answer 95

Among the typical qualities that a successful gameshow host must have (stage presence, sense of humor), there are special qualities that the host of The Price is Right must have. He has to first be Bob Barker. If you aren't Bob Barker, then chances are you will not be able to do this job the way it's supposed to be done.



However, if you aren't Bob Barker and Mr. Shatner you definitely aren't him then I would give this advice....



Know the games inside and out

Banter with the audience

Love what you do!



That's about it. We all know that Bob will be impossible to replace just like Rod Roddey will never be replaced. But it's still possible for us to love this show because of the show's staying power. Don't try to change it, it's perfect! If you do get the job, best of luck and I'm sure you can keep us entertained throughout!

Answer 96

Control the situation, but let it go when it's just too funny. Keep it moving; but while you need to be obviously there, be transparent to the game. Never think that what you are doing is stupid, even when it's stupid. People sense that and it turns them off. The host needs to turn people on. Have fun but don't ever, ever belittle a contestant, too obviously. Use a Bob Hope type facial gesture, a slow take, or a slow burn. Always get the audience in on the joke and Hey, Have a Good Time. People say Ya only go around but once. Prove em wrong!

Answer 97

Hi Mr Shatner ! By the way I love Boston Legal. Anyway on to your question what make a great Game Show Host. Well I currently am a Professional Mobile Disc Jockey and we live and die sometimes on our ability to Host gameshow type events. I used to perform at this bar Gig where we did Gameshow night Were I created a Gameshow Booth and such. Anyway what I have learned would be that you must live In the moment. And this can't be a forced live in the moment either. Look at what happened to Richard Kerns ( I think that is his name, the home improvment guy who hosted Family Fued for a few seasons.) Anyway he was just bad. He tryed to be something he was not and it didn't work. There is a book that is coming out in January which I recieved an advanced copy of called Top Performer. Its by the auther who wrote the book Fish. Anyway Top performer has everything you must know to be a great gameshow host. . 7 area to look into. 1. Claim your pitch. The Pitch is the space were you perform, and by claiming it, I mean choosing your attitude while working this space. Just as Capt Kirk was a different character then Denny Crane. each had distinctive attitudes that made them work so must your gameshow host persona. 2) Juice the Jam. This is the live in the moment part. Jams are good or bad unexpected things that happen or are said. By juicing it I mean you must work ANY nad ALL jams to a creative possitive result. By Juicing the Jam you creat energy. That energy is what will seperate you from the Richard Kerns. This is a skill I have learned well performing live for so many years. (17 Years) 3) Mine the Mess. Everything and anything are fair game for use when you are performing live, and I believe even though this show will be taped that if it doesn't feel live, you will fail at this. the mess could be stage crew, directors, contestents dress anything. How they look. But by looking for things to work with you don't become boring. 4) Devlope Insurance. this is your go to card. You know the thing that doesnt fail you ever. If things are falling apart you must use the insurance to bring the energy back. 5) Choose Your Close. You must end Big as we live performers call it. Leave them with a possitive taste in their mouth. Now the show producers might already have something in mind for this. Bob Barker always said spade and neuter your pets. It was possitive. And so must be whatever you choose here also. 6) Pass the Hat and 7) Build a Cirlce are difficult for me to translate to the gameshow host thing. For Buskers or street performers its getting paid. And then having people talk about you. Boston Legal for instance was so quirky and fun to talk about. Your character Denny Crane is so un Kirk like that it works. Denny's brutal disregard for anyone elses thoughts on matters is just fun. ( except for Alan and Shirley ) I for one didn't see this coming. The Gameshow Host thing, so you have that going for you. Myy last bit of advise is to watch the masters of this and devolpe a list of what they do right. Alex T / Wink Martin Dale / Bob Barker / ect etc Watch how they open and close. I currently train 25 DJ's and one of the things I teach them all the time is that we are always students of our craft. We never stop learning and growing. Same thing for you Mr Shatner. Just because you have done this forever don't think that you have mastered this. Its easy to think like that. After 17 years of performing I have been through 5 slumps at least and all of them happened when I stopped growing. Good Luck I look forward to your success.

Dean C Carlson

Answer 98

A charming (charismatic), witty (smart, quick thinker) and empathetic (compassionate) personality. A game show host is basically a therapist who reveals a challenge to their 'client' and then either consoles or congratulates them depending on the choice the client made. Of course, this whole process is performed in front of a camera and broadcast to millions of people, so that brings in the need for relatively decent looks, but even that can be overcome by conveying good on-screen personality traits (think back: how many game show hosts over the years can be considered "hotties"? Not many, if any at all - but they were all smart, quick-witted and very personable). The empathy aspect is key however - a game show host musn't be an adversary, they must side with the 'client/player' and act as if they are invested in the player's risk (act being the key word - if they don't care, they'd better not show it, ever).

Answer 99

It helps to have a catch phrase like "deal or no deal", or an accent (Richard Dawson) or just a good wit without being overbearing (Sajack, Trebeck).



However, it's time for an over the top game show host, and William Shatner is it. I think it would be best for him to avoid a lot of Star Trek references. We've heard them all, and I'm sure He's heard them all 1,000 times.



I will watch the show because William Shatner is the star, so I want him to be the star, not the show, not the players, not the audience.



I do dig his ventures into music (I own an original vinyl version of "Transformed Man"), so I hope he gets an opportunity to sing on his new game show.

Answer 100

Charisma, charisma, charisma! Easily the most important asset of any good game show host (Shatner, baby, you've got it!). Good game show hosts should also have a good sense of humor... crazy things happen when people are excited about possibly winning money/prizes. Being able to deal with it in a humorous manner that can also spread excitement and laughter to the audience is important. Being able to make stuff up on the fly (whether that be jokes or comfort for a losing contestant, or whatever) is important too. Bob Barker is a legend because he had charisma, a great smile, and genuinely seemed to care about the contestants, plus the ability to run with contestant craziness and make it amusing and fun. He inspired trust in both the contestants and the audience, giving people hope that they too could be winners.

Answer 101

First of all, let me say what an honour it is to answer a question from my fellow Canadian, William Shatner!!



I think that there are many different elements that are key ingredients to being a great game show host, and there isn't necessarily any one "right" combination of such elements in order to be considered great. But if you look at the man I consider to be the "Father" of all game show hosts - Bob Barker - there are a number of things that make him so likeable. First of all, he seems "real". We see his own personality shining through when he is on stage...everything from allowing us as his audience to see his hair go grey...to being an advocate for animals by reminding the audience at the end of every show to have their pet spayed or neutered (and doing so without making a big celebrity production out of the message)....to always seeing the contestants as individuals and treating them with respect and a very caring manner. He smiles and laughs all the time, and basically shows us the genuine, human side to his personality and does all of this without trying to appear superior to the contestants.



I know that you hold all the key ingredients within yourself to be a great success at your newest endeavor of being a game show host, and that we are lucky to have the opportunity to enjoy your presence once again in the land of television. And remember - if all else fails - just make sure to have a few dilithium crystals with you!! (wink)



Thanks so much for allowing me this wonderful opportunity to have contact with you!

Answer 102

We all love William Shatner, since the days of Star Trek (Captain Kirk) and you're asking us what makes a great game show host? I watched your show last night , for the first time, and I thought you were great, until the end of the show. With all due respect sir, please don't dance with the girls at the end of the show! I was kind of taken aback, because really, you looked kind of silly. (Sorry)

Key ingredients: Know what your actions look like on stage, before airing.

Laughter- it makes the contestants feel at ease,and keeps the audience coming back for more.

Just have fun!: winning money is Fun!

Answer 103

What works right now is to look at the gameshow as a comeback vehicle. The NBC shows are reviving the careers of Bob Saget and Howie Mandel. Shatner already has a TV show that is keeping his career alive. But if he is to make it, he should also be serious on the questions. Comedy is OK, but you shouldn't have comedy in the questions, and then repeat that formula. Case in point: "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?" sucks right now because Meredith Vieria keeps putting the D option as a gag in every $100 question. That's not funny.

Answer 104

Dear Mr. Shatner,

I feel the key ingredients of any good host are:

1. Funny (without degrading the guests)

2. Personable (getting to know the guests and getting to know the host)

3. Classy (you have to dress to the nines and give respect to get respect)

4. A Good Audience (having a siked crowd is always fun-you could also have give-aways to on line, TV and live audiences too)

I am a big fan, looking forward to your new game show and wish you loads of success!

Sincerely,

Christi McDonald

homeschooling mom of 4 from Jackson, Mississippi

Answer 105

William Shatner!! You ruuuuuule!! ;-)



I'd say just be your own wild witty wonderful self! We loved you as Captian Kirk of the Starship Enterprize, as TJHooker, and are intrigued by the out-of-the-box loveable Denny Crane in Boston Legal. I never miss an episode. (And HAVE an episode if someone tries to hone in on my program! lol) Fill the empty time with genuine playful witticisms and you'll be set.



Don't feel the need to be like Sajak (a rare game show host I've never been that thrilled about), nor to emmulate Howie Mandel (who is a rare and unique bird who STILL looks spooly-headed to me, shaved or not shaved!), nor to last for 101 years like dear ole Bob Barker. Sexy ladies always help. Even the ladies appreciate the lovely ladies. It's just classy. And not hard on the eyes. Especially since some contestants may be...



Find a tag line... like Groucho Marx or Bob Barker.



In your case, maybe bring in some playful FRIBBLES as a side prop. Everyone loves FRIBBLES and Captain Kirk! hehehe I enjoyed the advice to have Spok as a side-kick but would fly solo. Kisses to you! You are ALL THAT! Can't wait to watch!



p.s. I just read your bio. I'm an even bigger fan now. I suffer from Tinninus and never knew you did good works in that regard also! Wow! You really are the greatest. I hope your Tinnitus is healed.

Answer 106

Hi, I am a long time fan and you are so much more than a talk show host Mr. Shatner. If you are determined to get into this "thing" my advice is to not be the star of the show but to make the guests the stars of the show and you prod them into making interesting conversation between questions. As a fellow author I know you have an outstanding imagination, education and a gift. Use those talents to explore your gameshow guests personalities and quirks.

A fan in Orlando Florida..........:)

Answer 107

Simple, be appropriate in voice and manner for the show's content.



You certainly have the name recognition which will give you a heads up. But the Captain Kirk voice of the past would not go over well in a "The Price is Right" setting. Kirk was very serious and emphasized everything - "The Price is Right" is a fun loving back-yard bar-b-q with your friends game.



"Come.. on down.. You.. are the next.... Contestant.... on the price is right!"



as opposed to:



"Come on down! You are the next contestant.. on the Price Is RIGHT!"



Don't get me wrong, I fully believe name recognition alone would give you a strong first season; but if viewers can't get excited by the show's content - a second season isn't as likely.



With all that being said - different game shows have a different atmosphere. "Jeopardy" is a completely different type of show, more intellectual and serious.



So to answer your question? What are the key ingredients to a great game show host? Simple, be appropriate in voice and manner for the show's content.

Answer 108

1. Above all you must be a Gentleman or a Lady, ever polite and chivalric. As a public figure, the audience wants to be like you in some fashion, they want you to bring out the best in them. 2. Charismatic, witty, comedic timing with a touch of seriousness, yet never bland. No one wants to watch the paint dry, even for a moment. You will surely be judged by the most mundane moment of your performance, especially by the channel surfers, who will keep on surfing. 3. True interest and excitement in the game being played. If you're not interested in the game, then how will you get others to be interested? 4. The ability to build suspense, specifically when the game being played is not inherently suspenseful. This is a key because the audience loves to sit on the edge of their seat and either breathe a sigh of elated relief when the contestant does well, or burst into angry tirade when the contestant does badly. 5. Don’t give away the answers, a good game design shouldn’t allow you to get into this situation, but if it does, be aware of it. 6. You’re William Shatner, one of the greatest T.V. icons of all time; use it to your advantage. Make fun of yourself from time to time. Every once in a while, if you suddenly slipped into one of the many characters you've portrayed, it would be hilarious and it let's us know you're human.

Answer 109

To be a great game show host make the contestant feel as though they are the most important person in the world for the 15 minutes they are playing. It is also important to be able to build suspense with the audience and those watching on television without getting annoying. It is important to be able to make the contestant feel comfortable and not nervous considering they already have enough pressure.



As far as being a great host, you’re William Shatner for god’s sake! Whether they are Star Trek fans or not, everyone in the world knows who you are. Play that up. You have a great sense of humor, and don’t be afraid to maybe poke fun of yourself from time to time.



You’ll do great.

Answer 110

Simply put: confidence and energy with a realization that you’re the one who provides the context to let the participants shine. In more detail, a great game show host is someone who can balance the following (potentially opposing) elements:

1- makes the audience feel like the game itself has credibility and is worthwhile and, at the same time, adds a degree of levity and ease

2- doesn’t try too hard to be a host; instead, the host allows his/her chemistry, personality, and confidence to come out naturally

3- Becomes an essential part and character of the show but, very importantly, uses one’s position and energy to bring out the personalities of the participants

Answer 111

Mr. Shatner,

The key ingredients to being a great game show host are:

Dedication to and belief in what you are doing, and time.

Bob Barker, in my opinion, was/is the greatest because he always made the audience feel as if they were winners whether they were at the studio or at home watching. He believed in what he was doing...bringing a few hopeful moments into peoples lives. Good Luck and God Bless.

Answer 112

I think that having silly and unusual line up of contestants makes the host a success, just as much as any other factor. Just look at Jerry Springer... even though he is not a game show host, it's his human zoo of guests that makes his show a hit, just like stopping for a moment to gawk at a car accident while driving... that sick sort of fascination. With such a dry personality, I doubt he would have made it without all the antics, nudity and lucha libre. A wild Robin Williams style sense of humor would be a welcome plus to a game show. Controversy would also add to ratings. Gimmicks... oooh yeah... more gimmicks too. Something new and original... out of the ordinary. No more Bob Barker repeats. Why not host a game show like the Japanese ones where people do incredibly silly stunts for money without eating bugs and worms?

Answer 113

I am not been a host, but a mere audience. What makes a host interesting like Bill Cosby is that he tried to get with the level of his subject. Kid's dardnest thing really is lively, funny and interesting. The show was natural and the host is very successful in bringing out the natural reaction. Ophra has the same style, she has been interested in her features that puts the question of an ordinary person to her. While Saturday morning shows is a little dull, not because of the subject but because how it was moved by the host. I do remember Jack Palance in Ripley's Believe it or not. He is even moved by the topic and best identified, mystified by the facts. You as the 911 host has done a good job, because you put your audience like sitting in a couch listening to you personally. I think what makes you all successful is that you are more human when you present than others, people hates scripted attitude especially when you dont act perfectly!

Answer 114

There are 2 types of successful game show hosts: The first is a host that was a relative unknown before the show went into production and somehow (whether due to the strength of the host or the strength of the premise or both), that host becomes a household name. The show and the host both become valuable "brands" for the network, and the host "molds" himself to the character and tone of the show.

The other, obviously, is your situation. A well-known celebrity brings ready-made star power to the show, whether it's a new show or an established one (Geez, you're not the one replacing Bob Barker, are you??). In this case, the show needs to be molded to the celebrity, else in the public's eye, the situation seems forced. Classic example, Groucho Marx hosting You Bet Your Life way back when. Groucho did NOT become "a game show host who happened to be a brilliant comedic actor". He was Groucho being Groucho within the confines of a game show setting. He never stopped being Groucho, in other words.

Shatner needs to host AS Shatner, not as a generic game show host as portrayed by Shatner. And that can be tricky, dude. "Key ingredients" that made other game show hosts great don't necessarily apply to you, because they never had to host a show as Bill Shatner.

Answer 115

I think that all of the most successful game show hosts have some qualities in common. Aside from good looks, which most DON"T have, I believe key is: charisma and a sense of humor; to be able to bring levity to the show's contestants and make it fun for the audience.

Charisma and humor cannot be faked: you either have it or you don't. Along with these two aspects, star quality game show needs to be well-versed on the subject(s) of the show. For example: Alec Tribeck looks smart, sounds smart, and brings to Jeopardy the sense that the game show host could win the big money too. So many shows game and otherwise on TV insult my intelligence or are just plain dumb and boring so I rarely watch the TV.

Answer 116

* Humor (don't be an *ss...treat the contestants well, but still have fun yourself)

* Hair (doesn't have to be perfect, but it is key)

* Nice Teeth (but not scary bright)

* Be prepared - know your guests and any subjects the game deals with...prepping allows you to look much better

* Keep someone else to be the heel - remember when you were a kid and the doctor left the room while the nurse gave you a shot? That was one smart doctor.

* If possible it helps if both you and the contestant are having fun. Hopefully the production staff will eliminate sour folks, but if not...well make sure the viewer is watching somebody amused.

* Caring - whether real or not it makes people feel an emotional connection. Look at Howie Mandel. He goes on and on in interviews stating that he is happy the contestants get something. He says he hates the mysterious "banker". People feel he is in their corner and feel more for him. So are more likely to watch the show. Etc.



Just a couple of quick thoughts off of the top of my head.



Good luck.



Big Fan!

Joshua

Answer 117

Number one thing you must remember... Nobody likes a butthead. Hosts, characters, etc. are usually not liked very much. I know that there may be times where you have somebody on your show that you don't particularly care for, but don't be mean. Hosts that are funny and easy going really seem to draw in more audiences. Just be yourself and don't let what anyone is yelling to you get to you. William Shatner, you will be great as a host, as you have been on everything else that you have ever done. Believe me, I've seen you in all sorts of things and I have always liked your style. Just have faith in yourself.

Answer 118

Definitely your charisma. Hi Bill...I'm the lady that gave you the gift of a star ("William Shatner's Eternia") at the S.T. convention several years ago. You joked with me regarding the difference between a star and a planet. I'm not certain if you recall that or not. However, I will say that many other ladies volunteered kisses that day.



Actually, I think you'd make a great game show host; however, your role as the intelligent attorney with a touch of 'Alzheimer's' was so fantastically genuine. You did great. A game show would be something different. I'm sure you'll do great no matter which avenue you choose to travel.

Answer 119

The key to being a great game show host is quite simply familiarity and Mr. Shatner already has that. Sajak and Barker are Americon Icons, American Tresures. William Shatner has that over let's say some "new guy" trying to break into the game show biz.



All William Shatner has to do is be himself. Be the familair face America has come to know and love and he will succeed.

Answer 120

If it is William Shatner this should not be a problem he posses most of the apparent skill. What I am not sure is what me/public does not see behind the scenes. Since he is iconic commodity he'll be well supported. The real question is does willie want to do it. If it is just for money then forget it-he will get paid regardless. We all know what people look like when they do something they do not like. I suppose if you like people even regular ones then he should be a snap. Also he just needs to be himself, does that answer it?

Answer 121

I would say humor, I hate watching some games shows because of the boring host. However you Mr. Shatner are a very funny man and I dont think that there is anything you need to do but be yourself!

Answer 122

This is my opinion on what makes a great game show host, in no particular order



1. Natural humor. There is nothing worse than a game show host who is trying too hard to be funny. You can tell when somebody is trying too hard to get laughs and it completely ruins the atmosphere.



2. You have to be able to relate to the contestants, even though you may only see them this one time in your life. It gives the people watching at home a sense that you generally want them to win the big prize. Learn their background as to what they may want to do with their big winnings. As a game show viewer, I think it is always great to hear people that have been struggling with hardships for most of their lives win a big amount of money.



3. Character. If you are a stick in the mud and show absolutely no personality, never laugh or crack any jokes etc. people will loose interest. Keep the audience entertained.



4. Know how to go to a commercial. Again, as a viewer, there is nothing worse than a host that just plain says "we'll be back after this" or something along those lines. I think Howie Mandel on Deal or No Deal probably has, in my opinion, taken this to a whole new level.





Hopefully with this you will be able to go where no game show host has gone before.

Answer 123

Dear Mr Shatner;

You're going to make a great game show host. You are able to laugh at yourself (even though you're great), you've got a ton of charisma and you have an authoritative speaking voice (when you're pausing like Kirk...). Not to mention that your personality has come through over the past few years as fun, irreverent and most importantly 'current'. All these things make for an engaging game show host. Above all, don't try to be like Alex Trebek.

Love,

Jenn

Answer 124

That's easy, Bill. Just ask yourself "what are the key ingredients to a "great lay." Everybody just wants to get laid. Even priests want a good lay now and then - just ask the Pope. Of course if you're sick then you want to get healthy. But that's just so you can get laid ultimately. The Universe is all about getting laid. That's how it all started - with the "Big Bang." God wanted to party. God is a party animal. That's what you've got to be. Then you'll not only be a great game show host but a godly one, too. And finally, if all else fails, fall back on your experience as a great starship captain. That's a shoe in. You might even want to start a Star Trek game show. Call it a business "enterprise." Whatever you do, I have no doubt it will be great and successful.

Answer 125

Hi William,

I think some key ingredients, are a great sense of humor, humility, and crowd participation. The fact that everyone in the civilized world has heard of you, whether that be through Star Trek or through your short debut as a singer, you are loved by millions as it is. It wouldn't hurt to crack a couple of jokes about yourself, people would identify with that.



Take Deal or No Deal for instance, what makes me want to watch the show is the participation, the natural human character that's appealing. It's the anticipation on whether or not the contestant picked the right case.



Just a few thoughts, good luck with the show.



Felix

Answer 126

Hi Will,

Don't be standoffish.

Don't come across with a phony personality.

Don't be an ego maniac.

The three above things can be seen clearly in Bob Saget, (1 against 100 game show.) that's why that show already needs a new host or it won't last into a second season. If you happened to TiVo the first episode of that show you get to hear Bob Saget tell the very first contestant rudely "Don't Touch Me" when the contestant walked towards him.

But I think you'll do great since you can laugh at yourself and you have a great sense of humor. You might even want to tell a few stories of odd things that have struck you as funny from all the past work you have done. Come see us in Boise, Idaho. sometime you'll pack the house I am sure.

Answer 127

Mr. Shatner, from James T. Kirk to Denny Crane (and every role you've portrayed in between), there has been a constant - your electrifying persona. To make your new game show a sucess you need only draw upon it. My recommendations are as follows:



1. Retain the spotlight. Too often gameshow hosts are willing to slip quietly into the background while Joe or Joan Smith takes center stage. Don't let this happen. Joe or Joan Smith can quickly become boring.



2. Capitalize on your credits. No doubt your diverse filmography background will allow you to draw in a diverse audience. Once they're watching, don't forget them. To the extent you are permitted to do so, bring some of your former "characters" with you. At the very least, this will serve as a tip of the hat to your existing fans tuning in to the show (thereby solidifying a portion of your audience). Besides, who wouldn't mind hearing the phrase "beam up our next contestant" once in a while.



3. Stay current by incorporating into the show, on occassion, some recognition of light-hearted world events or national phenomenon. For example, I believe during one of the advertisements for the show you said "I'm bringing sexy back." That was hilarious on many levels. In fact, as I am writing this, I'm still grinning ear to ear.



4. Keep the audience guessing. People like surprises. Guest star appearances and changes in the rules or show format from time to time will keep the show fresh.



I hope you find some kernel of information in what I've written useful.



In any event, best of luck to you! I'll be watching.

Answer 128

First is charisma, which you obviously have with your staying power through in both movies and television through the years. Second, a light touch of comedic creativity, including the ability to ad-lib and laugh at yourself. Beware here, as too much comedy detracts from the game show as a whole. Third, the show must appeal to the public at large. If you don't think it will do so, then you could try sitting down with the writers to offer your input for possible minor changes that would assist them in appealing to the masses. The last thing that all good game show hosts have offered throughout the years is suspense. There must be an "unknown" to the contestant. For example, the contestant is left waiting, by the host, for an answer, monetary winnings, or other outcome. I believe if you combine all four of these, your show will be a hit. Good luck to you in your endeavor.

Answer 129

How to be a game show host 101: 1) Presence, it will help you not only connect with the contestants, but the audience as well. 2) Vulnerabilty, a little bit goes a long way with a man, but Meredith Viera has loads and it keeps me watching. 3) Prestige, as in the movie. One magician had it, one didn't. Here again these days a little bit goes a long way. Not like turn of the century London. 4) Humility, without it you wont last a season, people will be turned off. 5) Knowledge, have some basic knowledge of the questions asked of your contestants.

Answer 130

Hello, Mr. Shatner!! Let's see if I can help with this. Great personality, funny, good timing and an ability to sense the contestant's mood and work off of their excitement on being on the show are some of the key ingredients to being a great game show host. Hope this is helpful. I'm looking forward to your show and know you will do an excellent job. By the way, I love your character on Boston Legal.

Answer 131

Dear Bill, oops sorry William Shatner, one of the key ingredients is a well known face, instantly recognisable to millions around the world! and also a good negotiator, a bit like a Lawyer ! Good leadership qualities, able to know when the game is up and get out fast !

Answer 132

1. Personality. Without it, it's just not fun.



2. Sense of Humour. You have to be able to laugh at yourself and make the contestants comfortable enough to be able to laugh at themselves.



3. Energy. If you're not energetic about the show- why should the contestants and viewers?



4. Originality. Why watch a cookie-cutter game show?



5. William Shatner. You've gotta have The Shat!

Answer 133

Greatness is in the eye of the beholder.

Since you are asking about a show biz gig - the greatness would be connected to how long that gig will last.



So how can you become a favorite ICON? How can you get the masses interested in your show so much that they obsess over it? How can you keep your ratings up - steady and continuously...



1) Involve the audience - not just the audience in the room but on tv. Ask the peeps in TV land what they think? Would be great if you have it available online for us watchers to actively particpate (America's Next Top Idol)



2) Interact with the contestants in a way that's not too boring and drawn out (Jeopardy - I always mute the intro's). Get them to act up and be entertaining (Who wants to be a millionaire). Or irritate the living hell out of them so they talk back (Weakest Link).



3) Being your lovable self won't be enough (we are all too use to that.) But I've seen when you have acted goofy - worked quite well, babe. When you were on with Howard a little of your naughty side showed up. Was very funny.



4) Trying to act funny and being funny are two totally opposite things. Take Borat - he "acts" funny by trying too hard and being too outlandish and obvious. Then look at Will Smith - someone else says something - he just looks in the camera with an expression. Subtlety. We need more laughter in the world - be funny but please don't wear the bunny ears or arrow-through-the-head hat...



5) Have a unique game. A challenging game. A game that everyone from the couch potato dum dum's to intellectuals can participate at home with. We want to play too you know.



6) Make sure you are always on top of things. That you know exactly what the answer is. That you wait patiently for the answer. That you don't keep everyone hanging - that's the one peev about "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire".



7) Lastly, don't look at this as just another gig, but as a business and you are the CEO. Be on top of all aspects. Bob Barker may have been a tyrant but look how long his show lasted...



Good luck my sweet - can't wait to see the show.



xoxoxoxoxo

Answer 134

1. Personality. You have to be someone that people WANT to let into their lives every day. You have to be someone who game show participants seem to enjoy being around.



2. Ability to talk to people and put them at ease. You're gonna have very nervous people who never have been in front of a camera before, you have to know how to get them to talk and feel natural in front of an audience and a camera.



3. Great wardrobe! The wrong outfit can be seriously distracting. It has to be age-appropriate, not too flashy, appear to be well-made but not too rich that your audience can't relate, attractive so the modern woman is attracted without you feeling like you're advertising your sexuality.



4. A knowledge of pop-culture. Working in contemporary jokes and knowing what to chat up people about is very important.



5. Believability. If the audience thinks you're fake - then your show is done for. I think most of the world would believe Bob Barker or Pat Sajak if they said something.



6. The ability to ad lib naturally. The audience should never know when you're winging it from your scripted dialog.



7. Ability to be flexible. Look at Bob Barker or anyone else - they have to deal with some bizarre situations sometimes. Flexibility is key.



8. Fun! If you look like you're having fun then everyone else will too.



9. Some clever catch phrase, mannerism or uniqueness. But then again, you're Shatner - that's not hard.

Answer 135

William,

In my knowledge there has not yet been a great gameshow host. If you'd like to be the first, the ideal host would be very unpredictable. Lashing out at the guests in anger, and then suddenly becoming very congenial is a good recipe for entertaining television. Make the contestants slightly afraid of what you will do, how you will react to what they say. Use your full range of acting skills! Cycle through emotional states unpredictably. If the audience has no idea what you will do next, people will not be able to take their eyes off the show. If you play it safe, people will consider your role as a gameshow host a downgrade. Do not try to be likeable. Be a force of nature.

Answer 136

William, Get a signature gimmick. Remember how Richard Dawson always kissed the women on his show? Nobody else could pull that off. It was his sthick. You'll get it. Something like punching all the men on the shoulder, the salute Nimoy is doing, or pointing your finger and pulling trigger as if your hand was a pistol for all right answers. Salute the men and bow to the women. Get a gimmick that is all yours. Thumbs up might work. People are all children, and what small children enjoy is repetition. Find something you do our or five times a show, and is you. I remember the best part of Monday night football was hearing dandy Don sing "THE PARTY"S OVER." I saw you go after a bear with a bow and arrow one time. Maybe you can do something mimicking letting an arrow fly. You'll do great. Marvin Sprouse

Answer 137

Hey there, Mr. Shatner :-) I believe the keys to being to a great game show host are as follows:

1. love what you are doing

2. show respect to the contestants. (I've watched a few game show hosts do and say some pretty disgusting things)

3. mix in a little humor (very important)

4. smile a lot (you have a wonderful smile, Mr. Shatner!)

5. be your wonderful, amazing self (don't try to fit into the mold of other game show hosts)

6. ignore the negative comments on here



Wishing you much success! I'll be watching your show on the telly.

Answer 138

I personally have never been a game show host, however growing up in England we had a fair share and the hosts are notably different from here! First off its all about audience interaction! A famous host in England [Bruce Forsyth] was a genius! He would come out at the start of his show (the generation game) and say “Nice to see you, to see you……..” (the audience would finish) “NICE” and he would pull this stupid pose when he came out, but, he was funny! And that’s all it takes, being funny! Bend the rules a little if it means someone walks home with $25k instead of $5k! Make fun, in a cheeky, kind way of people but never make them feel too foolish! No body cares what your saying about them if you’ve just given them a new car!



So simply put



•Include the audience all the time!

•Make it funny, even at your own expense (remember your TV ads?)

•Have a catch phrase people will remember you by! Something from Star Trek if you really want!

•Have FUN – and everything else will work



Good luck, can’t wait to see the Shat do a game show!

Answer 139

First of all you absolutely must treat any and all celebrities that appear on the show like the babbling premadonnas they are, otherwise you risk losing control of the game. This also goes for all arrogant or "cute" contestants who would seek to supplant the game with their hideous personalities. Besides that always, ALWAYS put your hand on the shoulder of any elderly female contestants when they are in a pressure situation to show solidarlty and prevent cardiac arrest- Bob Parker is the undisputed master of this noble gesture. But why am I telling you this, you're Bill Shatner for Christ's sake, if you run into any contestant problems, just give 'em the old flying leg kick...

Answer 140

Personality is naturally going to be of great importance. However, even the most personable hosts can deliver an ingenuine and dull experience for the viewer. A genuine interest in the contestants is probably the single most important piece of the puzzle. A good host will be pulling for the player, share in the excitement and help provide enthusiasm. Players are normal people, when they get a chance to play a game show it is a huge deal. They aren't concerned about who is the host, whether or not this person is a celebrity, they just want to have that once chance at winning something big.



Be there for the contestants, not the paycheck. I am a professional photographer and if I allowed myself to shoot only for the money my work would be horrible. I share in the excitement of the client. I get in touch with how important or sentimental a picture is going to be for this person. They are not playing a game, true, they just want a good experience. Game show contestants are no different.

Answer 141

To me the key ingredient to a great game show host is respect for the contestants, informed, humor, and a great personality. Which I know William Shatner has. Similiar to Alex Trebeck

Answer 142

Funny, charming, etc. of course, but have a good subject for your show that could feel familiar, yet have that distinct difference. Combine a humerous approach and a quick wit, but don't sound so much like the Shatner everyone would expect to hear; use your celebrity to reinvent your image as a gameshow host and participant(?). Be knowledgeable of your material and how your game is played. Be practiced to be able to improvise under many difficult circumstances, however unlikely.

Answer 143

Oh course its a little entertainment and to talk to the crowd often. You also should be very considerent that real people are there and are watching you. Also spice thing up a bit every now and then to keep em on your watch. For the kids also give them a project to do or hand out things if possible. Possibley food if its a food channel for instance. Plus you always want to have them on the top of your head make sure that they pay attention while your show. Then again one of the most important things of all is a great topic that not only you injoy but the crowd and kids would like too. That my friends are the secrets of the game show host.

Sined,

Sasha Kempster A.K.A. LUCASLUVER!

P.S. Try to keep the topic unrelated to sexual things.

Answer 144

It's important for a game-show host to be personable, but not to personal. Bringing your own life into the game is pretentious. Being upbeat without rushing a contestant is definitely important. Nice game show hosts are great as long as the niceness doesn't leak into the realm of 'cheesy'. Staying on track with the game at hand is important to any watcher, however it's always nice to hear a little about the contestant and let them have a moment to talk. Also, I think Mr. Shattner will make an excellent game-show host, why didn't anyone think of it before?! (Maybe they did, but he's been waiting for a good one to accept?)

Answer 145

First thing we need to do is get you a better rug. something flashy and make a joke about it on the first show. that will pull serious ratings and show that you have the desire to compete on the national stage again without being the "boss". after that, back to the good ole shatner and move along abusing the quick wit. star trek referances may be interesting at times, and wow what an idea, have the remaining cast compete on the show during the first season. That is sure to pull a serious mark. following your shock and awe attempts to be taken seriously with a comedic and nostalgic flavor, as long as the premis for the show tows the line, then it should be a cake walk. the new wave (not really all the new) of reality shows require a competitive edge on your behalf to stay well..... competitive. something that deal or no deal has done introducing random prizes, college educations, suprising with family etc is a candy apple for the sappy demographic. good luck anyway, I hope that everything works out. I am not telling you who to be or how to act, you will be yourself. afterall with a career spanning decades, I don't foresee the captain playing the part any different. and if you were to, that would be a huge mistake. do what you do, make the whole thing a huge ludicrous joke the first couple shows to pull viewership then as folks become familiar with the game, as long as its an attactive format, everything will fall in place. good luck cappie, and "may the odds be with you".



take care,



Mike Lopez the marketing guy.

Michigan City, Indiana 46360

Answer 146

Although I don't watch much of game shows any more, I have observed that most successful hosts share common traits. A relaxed demeanor is very important (unless of course the show is themed on the lines of Ben Stein's Money or some other similar format). Successful hosts seem to be above average in intelligence, have a fairly good sense of humor, and are "quick on their feet". Above all, successful hosts seem to genuinely care about their guests as well as providing entertainment for their audiences.



I'm a fan of Star Trek & spent many evenings watching the original (83 or 84) shows during my high school and college years. That said, I have to say that I don't picture William Shatner as a game show host. I've always perceived his style as being a little "stiff" and overtly structured. Even in "Big Bad Momma" (roles I'm sure both he and Angie would like to forget), his acting style was too stiff to fit the character.



Don't take offense, Bill, but I think you would do better going after roles similar to those played by Tony Randall (although a little more masculine).



Well, they say everyon's a critic..........I guess this was my shot.

Answer 147

If you're looking for the key ingredients, look no further than the late Gene Rayburn, who hosted "Match Game" for so many years.



Gene enjoyed the repartee with not only the celebrity panel, but with the contestants, and with the studio audience. I always got the sense that he wanted everyone involved in the show to be having fun, and he really came across as sincere in his enjoyment of the program.



That's what makes a great game show host ... someone who genuinely enjoys the game, and wants that enjoyment shared with the cast, crew, contestants, studio audience, and the people watching at home.



Brien

Answer 148

The key to being a great game show host is to have a “catch phrase”.



Something funny that people will associate with you and create warm fuzzy feelings.



Then there are the basics:

Personality

Charm

Humor

Confidence

Professionalism

Experience



Good Luck with the game show thing.



I would also like to say that I love you as Denny Crane……..the first couple of seasons with your saying your name and other crazy catch phrases was hilarious. I wish you the very best in all that you do.

Answer 149

The other thing that I've thought about is the indispensability of having a good sidekick. One that clearly has a subordinate role to your role as host, but that has an important role. A couple of the more successful game shows have had sidekicks (i.e. Wheel of Fortune, The Price is Right), while others have used celebrity guests to fulfill the shoes of a sidekick (i.e. $25,000 Pyramid, Password). Still other shows have been successful without having a sidekick at all (i.e. Jeopardy, Millionaire), though these types of shows completely without sidekicks tend to be quiz shows with trivia questions.

Answer 150

Watch Alex Trebek on Jeopardy for what NOT to be. School teacher-ish, gently chiding, correcting. UGH!



Be in charge without being the star. Remember that the contestants and the game are the reason people watch game shows, not the host. Keep your on camera face to a minimum. See how gradually Meredith Viere (sp?) takes over the contestant's time by excessive seeking for "colour"... she's otherwise good, but has to cut back on that stuff. The Millionaire show is too short as it is.



Ok? Tommo

Answer 151

Hi Mr. Shatner



One thing I have been greatly disappointed with is a lot of former actors deciding they want to become game show hosts. I realize this has been done a lot in the past, but it seems to be more of a trend now - guys like Louie Anderson, Richard Karn, Bob Saget are all examples of doing this. I guess I always prefer someone who is a "Game Show Host" by trade, not an actor (Tom Kennedy, Bill Cullen, Alex Trebek, Chuck Woolery, etc)



Yet I do believe it can work. David Ruprecht was not a big-name actor, but I feel he made the transition to Game Show Host and did a remarkable job on Supermarket Sweep. Richard Dawson is the most obvious example. I think the key to the success with these guys is they accepted that the Game Show was their craft. They didn't try to use the Game Show to promote themselves, instead they added to the Game Show. Ruprecht was just himself.



With that said, I feel you have all of the ingredients to be successful in this role. Use your humor and talents to see what you can do to make the show better. Because you are a name actor, I don't think you can make a full transition to Game Show Host as your only trade. Yet, I do feel you can have a second trade.



I'm looking forward to seeing how you can do - and how your progress goes!

Answer 152

Bill, Bill, Bill. You...are...already...a legend. Do you really want to be mentioned in the same breath as Louie Anderson? If I were William Shatner, and Lord knows I'm not, I would want my own reality show. You think The Osbournes was big? I know a lot of people who would watch The Shatner Reality Show. (No, I don't live in my parents' basement.) Just the possibility that you might belt out one of your classic vocal performances, like Mr. Tambourine Man, or create a new classic with The Real Slim Shady, would be enough to get me and others to tune in. Either that, or get on one of those celebrity boxing shows and kick Danny Bonaduce's butt.

Answer 153

1) Never raise both hands over one's head when waving at the audience at the beginning of the show.

2) Just the right amount of sparkle in the eyes.

3) Moderate use of Raised Eyebrow at the camera to get audience laughter.

4) Restrain from bending forward and holding on to a podium when laughing at a contestant's exaggerated reaction to something exciting happening.

5) Never point at the camera when addressing the home audience.

6) Avoid using those silly huge cards with the questions or tasks for the contestants written on them.

7) Never throw kisses at the camera at the end of the show, use the sparkle in the eye instead.

Answer 154

First you have to have a good game show to be host of. Most people like to win whether there a mesa member or not, and let's face it there are alot more people, with better personalities in the "ordinary" class.

Be funny but not sarcastic (although you may be able to even swing that) and never be demeaning. You have the nescessary quick wit to keep the audience involved with the show. Think back to he newlywed game and some of the classic quips from that show.

Personality - Definitely a strong trait for you. Even with a good game show (1 vs 100) without personality the show will tank. (Who is that guy anyways?)

Sincereity - Pull the heartstrings and you'll definitely have a winner. If it's not your money then go for the underdog. The advertisers will continue to pay.

The bald look - Hey it's working for Howie.

Answer 155

In priority: 1. Visually Personalable 2. Empathetic 3: Presentable

4: Common Sense 5: Verbal Commuication 6: Style 7: Confidence



These are what make any public person successful

Answer 156

Keep in mind the game is the star and not the host. The host plays the main supporting role. An assistant with good chemistry is also an asset. Think of Regis + his co host her name escapes me at moment but their banter makes the show great. Same with wheel of fortune Vanna White adds a great deal to show.



You are definitely a star Mr. Shatner with a huge following. Yes i loved Star Trek . That show is prime example , you were the Star, yet the show itself was the true star. Excitement of space + new worlds + new ideas. It was not just the show itself that led to success. It was the chemistry between u +Spock. Not to mention Bones + Scotty all the characters Lt. Uhura :P lord forgive typos ... entire chemistry of main characters was awesome.



Back to the game show , as host you must create chemistry with co-host or assistant on show (you should have some one)..

then you need to form a bond with audience and finally a bond + rapport with the daily or weekly guests .... once again if all factors are done correctly + the game it self is bad then show will fail. If show becomes about you and not about the game the show will fail. If game it self is hot then a good host will propel game into a classic. Support of other concpets will cement success firmly hope this helps.

To Recap

1. Game is the Star

2.Host is leading role

3.host + co host chemistry huge factor in success

4. chemistry with guest s

5. chemistry with audience

6. humor :) excitement :) ability of audience to play along mentally





hope this helps :)

Answer 157

Mr Shatner,

In my opinion, the most important thing for a host to do is to have as much fun as the contestents and NOT take yourself too seriously. JUST HAVE FUN!!!



Although Bob Barker is a legend, my favorite game show hosts were Gene Rayburn on MATCH GAME and now Howie Mandel on DEAL OR NO DEAL. Both look as if they're truly having a great time with the contestents, the studio audience, AND the TV audience.



Truthfully......I'd get a kick if you played it as Denny Crane though.....lol I'm not sure if the network would have a problem with problem contestents getting SHOT!! lol



Good luck on your new show and I hope it doesn't take you away from BOSTON LEGAL if it's a hit.....You and James Spader make that show great!!!!

Answer 158

I believe a great game show host should be knowledgeable about the rules of the game, be funny without being to funny, and be very personable. Occasionally I will come across a game show and find that the person hosting doesn't always seem clear on the rules. This can be very distracting and also make it look like the game is "rigged" against the contestant.

Answer 159

Humility has always been one of the more important aspects of a great game show host; only recently has it grown to become the most integral part of the modern game show formula.



In this era of reality shows and multi-million-dollar prize amounts, the host's ability to retain an aura of humility is necessary in order to grant the spotlight to the contestant. Television audiences have shown that they want good money to go to good (interesting) people, to underdogs and misfits, and the only way to establish a contestant as such is for the host of the show to take on a supporting role. All successful game shows of the last few years - as well as reality shows - have fully realized that the money is the carrot, the host the stick, and the contestant's story the horse.



Charisma can be a deceptive concept. It's one thing to be charismatic, but too many hosts have fallen prey to their egos. It's alright for Bob Barker to take center stage over contestants and prizes, but this is because a show like "The Price Is Right" never depends on true personal interaction. Contestants are on stage for a fraction of the hour running time. For a show like "...Millionaire?" that focuses on a single contestant for an extended period of time, the host's ego can easily get in the way of the audeince growing empathetic toward the contestant (the key ingredient to success.)



So keep it humble and know your place in today's game show formula. Let the contestant carry the show with their story and character, but be perspicacious and use what you can to bring the drama home.

Answer 160

Don't take yourself too seriously and, at the same time, understand that everyone on the show is hoping that their 15 minutes will change their life for the better.

When the host genuinely looks like they care whether the contestant does well or not, gets excited with the contestant, builds excitement with dread, looks and acts like they're playing along also, and not just the person reading the board...Regis Philbin and Howie Mandel have both been great in that regard.

Answer 161

Apparently being Canadian helps -- first Trebek, then Mandel and now Shatner!!!



Saw the show & I'm usually a real cynical SOB, but I couldn't stop laughing. You've embraced the new trends in the game show format and embraced them entirely and wholeheartedly.



The key ingredient is for you to keep on taking the format boldly to the outer edges of the gameshow frontier, Will.



Boldly going where no game show has gone before...

Answer 162

The key ingredients to a great game show host are wit, poise, empathy, voice tone/range and ability to bring variety. Wit is necessary because the host will be dealing with unpredictable circumstances. Responding to a situation with, "Uhm..." is not an option. Having poise, is not as funny, but how serious can a klutz be taken? Empathy is one of the most important key ingredients because it is important to get the audience involved. What better way than to lead by example. In addition, who wants to be on a show where the host is a jerk, and not likable? The reason that voice is a key ingredient is mainly because we all know that there are voices that are very annoying. Finally, the ability to bring variety is important because game show hosts end up repeating the same phrases over and over. They have to be able to break the monotony.

Answer 163

The key to a great game show host is to look hot, just like Drew Carey and William Shatner. They both have such thick meat it makes me want to squeeze them. They are so hot when they stick their belly out so people can stare and wonder how it is to rub it. It's not just their size, it is also their age that gives them experience and adds a little zesty flavor into their body. These are two examples of very great game hosts.

Answer 164

Take a clue from those who have been doing it a long time:



Wink Martindale: He's hosted many shows, and I was on one of them (TicTacDough). What struck me was that off camera, he was really not very likeable, but on camera, he oozed CHARM and ENTHUSIASM.



Bob Eubanks: Mr. Newlywed Game has the VOICE and DEMEANOR that was always just the right blend of DJ and Good Guy people wanted to be around.



Pat Sajak: Mr. Understatement. People don't watch Wheel of Fortune to see Pat; they would rather look at Vanna, but he's there to usher the show along, and he makes the focus of the show what it should be, the contestants playing the game. As a host, you have to remember, it's not about you.



Alex Trebek: Elegance. Game shows can be campy, but Alex reminds us that there is a degree of seriousness in getting up in front of a camera and a national audience and putting your intelligence on the line. He does not demean the contestants, regardless of how poorly they do, and that's an important reason why people like him. (A friend of mine who was on Jeopardy did say, however, that he had no problem demeaning them when the cameras weren't on.)



Bob Barker: Just play the game. Bob has always kept the focus on the reason people watch, fun. Fun does not always come in watching some overweight hick from Iowa jumping up and down while you try and get their life story out of them but from watching what the overweight hick does playing the game.



Dennis James: Leave the airy voice for acting; a game show host needs a voice that can boom and instill security in those who hear it while sounding fun.



Most important is to let the audience have fun, let the contestants play the game, and let yourself be the brunt of jokes, not the focus of the event.

Answer 165

1. Charm. If you can't make the grandmas swoon with your debonair smile, hello America's Funniest Home Videos.

2. Confidence. Nobody ever wants the dinette set, so make the contestant feel like that prize is the Holy Bloody Grail.

3. Height. You'll just look like a circus carny otherwise.

4. A Game Show that's fun to watch. Two words: no whammies.

5. A really good make-up artist. Trust.

Answer 166

For you William it is simple:

You must use that same Wit from those commercials you have done and rope the audience into the show. Interaction with the contestants and audience is key. Also do not shy away from using puns from your past. Whether the circumstance calls for a 'Star Trek ' like response or a playful laugh at yourself. In order for people to watch this show every week, you will need to take command and most of all enjoy yourself.

Answer 167

You need to get the contestants revved up and energetic. You need to make people not only want to compete, but want to WATCH!



A good host needs to keep the show going, but know when to take a moment for dramatic pauses. If your work as Captain Kirk is any indication, I don't think you'll have a problem there.



You'll need to ALWAYS be on... even on days when you're in a bad mood. If you're in a funky mood, make your jokes have a little more bitterness and dark humor, but you can't stop being funny or make your jokes dark to the point that you make the audience uncomfortable.



The women watching and competing should want you, and the men should want to be in your place and admire you. Just that simple.



Personally, I think that you'd make a GREAT game-show host! I have always loved you, Mr. Shatner. I would watch, for sure!

Answer 168

A gimmick and charisma. You've got the charisma, now for the gimmick - how about a game show set that looks like a spaceship?? Who cares about typecasting? It's the perfect gimmick for the trekkies who have only reruns to keep them going. Beam your contestants to a deserted island and let them duke it out. Give them the old Vulcan mind pinch. Have the old computer voice tell the contestants whether they answered right or wrong. Use the self-destruct countdown to time the answers. Use the Doctor's tricorder as a lie-detector. Keep up the tongue in cheek humor and do some over-dramatization and that should help. Can you over-dramatize?

Answer 169

Others have already covered most of the key ingredients, including charisma, a sense of humor, and warmth. William Shatner has been entertaining audiences for a long time, and knows what it takes - so he really doesn't need our advice. He has been getting better as the years have gone by. I especially like his Denny Crane character. I just hope Mr. Shatner doesn't try to sing again!

Answer 170

charisma is a big one, as well as the ability to make the contestant feel comfortable, also being able to keep the show rolling smoothly- throw in a few quality jokes at the right moment during the show and bam! you got the key ingredients to a great game show host...being William Shatner helps too

Answer 171

It seems to me that you have to be willing to look foolish and to be excited all the time for most game shows. You have to look the part and be well tailored too. Have charisma, which Shatner has or so my Trekkie Husband says. If Shatner can do Blast Attack with paint balls he can do the game show thing. I am will to put my money on him being a success with this if he so choses to. Also if he can be a sneaky lawyer and you still like him then he has it in the bag.

Answer 172

My favorite game show hosts all have the same things in common.



1: Enthusiasm for the game that is being played. If you don't love it , your audience will hate you for it.



2: Humility and kindness are also key. Denny Crane would have some problems succeeding in these areas. Whatever Denny Crane would do, do the opposite.



3: Knowledge of the game you are hosting plus giving encouragement every step of the way. You have to truly want everyone who plays to be a winner.



4: Clever banter is also important. This is perhaps the key to obtain maximum entertainment factor. Audiences will not flock to any show with a host who is rude, droll or loud or demeaning.

(did we learn nothing from Richard Dawson on Family Feud?)



5: Sharp dressing and being physically fit never hurt. If you look good, people will want to watch you.

Answer 173

If they are asking William Shatner to be a game show host they are looking for the classic, original personality that goes along with being William Shatner. Be yourself, ham it up, have fun. That's what they want. That's what I will be tuning in to see.

Answer 174

The key ingredients to being a great game show host would be to be yourself and bring out a smile from everyone in the audience by tapping into your funny side. Yes, there is a time to be serious but people go to watch game shows to escape reality for a half an hour or an hour. Laughter is key!

Answer 175

Not William Shatner

Answer 176

First, the host must be charming - engage the audience, but not so self-centered that the contestant is lost. (easy for Mr. Shatner) Make the contestant comfortable, and inform them of the rules with a calm and steady demeanor. The host must also help build the tension of the game as the risks get higher, maybe even being a little sympathetic if the contestant is losing.

Answer 177

A great game show host has a great love for people...this is easily the most effective ingredient. He/she comes across as a person who truly enjoys people and is not aloof. This comes across well to viewers, who may one day go on to become contestants. The host is not a buffoon, but a person you automatically respect, because they represent the rules of the show, almost like a judge. They know what they are doing, without a doubt, and without hesitation; they know the game they're hosting, and they excel at keeping contestants focused on whatever their next move should be. I would think that William Shatner would do exceptionally well at this, because his performance as commander of a crew and his performance as a game show host require similar talents. Also, he was well-received by the viewing public during his show because he made them believe he WAS the captain. I liked the show. I like him, as a person. I wish him well.

Answer 178

Well, in order to be a great Game Show host, there usually has to be a certain amount of sleaze (which, no offense, you do have, so if you're in the running, then you're good). All great hosts are slightly sleazy or have some scandal in their lives. Bob Barker is a good example of scandal, and Regis Philban is a good example for sleazy. These rules exclude Alex Trebek and Ben Stein, as their shows were not typical cheesy game shows.



You also need Charisma in order to keep the attention of the audience and keep up the enthusiasm of the contestants. You've got this going for you, too. I saw the Friars Roast......



You also have to be smart, or at least sound like you're smart. You can obviously do this, as you pretended to be the captain of a space ship for many'a'years.



Having a hot assistant helps a lot, too.

Answer 179

OK, Bill, I'll bite. Pacing is key -- keep the game moving. Give contestants enough air to add color to the proceedings, but not so much that they slow things down. Meanwhile, react to the people around you. I think that's the hardest part -- maintaining the pace while interacting. Simplify the premise of the game for the audience -- the spectacle is more important than the rulebook. (Over-premised games don't last -- it's the simple ones, like Wheel of Fortune, that run forever.) Project relaxation to invite the TV audience in and to contrast with wired contestants. Run the show, put yourself in command, but know that you're about 40 to 45 percent of the spectacle and a good host's job is to get the thing timed out properly. Good luck!

Answer 180

*********, and a good sense of humor. Just have total confidence in yourself, and poke fun where you can, in a way that doesn't offend contestants personally. You'll also want to be "inviting", to help dissipate the stage fright that some contestants may experience - after all, they are a crucial element of any good game show.



Heck, watch Game Show Network for a week or so... see what makes the good shows such classics. Match Game is a perfect example - the cast took a very basic, uninteresting "game", and fueled it with *humor* and *interaction*.



Don't expect everything to go "just right". Even the almighty "Price Is Right" has had their laundry list of fumbles. You've got to be ready for that, and able to quickly turn a fumble into something you can use for a quick laugh with your audience, so that the producers have a moment to decide what to do (or just take that lead yourself, what are they going to do, disagree?).



Finally, you need to maintain a "contagiously good" attitude. That means making sure you've always got something good going on -outside- of work, as well. Personally, I dedicate at least 3 days a month to spontaneously making myself happy - if I'm not worth my time, who else should be? I invite people I like to join, though it's only -their- loss if they decline, I'm gonna have fun anyways.



The better you treat yourself, and the better you feel; the better the attitude you project will be. And -that-, IMHO, is what seperates a game show host from a TERRIFIC game show host. It'll show, too.

Answer 181

For a personality like Mr. Shatner, who could easily steal the show from anyone, I would recommend concentrating on the contestants personalities and playing off of them. If the show is feeling slow and boring because of the contestants, then I think he should "let loose" and revitalize the show. More importantly, if the contestants have outstanding personalities, he should try to hold back a little and let them be the stars.

Answer 182

I think the main thing that makes a great game show host is the host being a real person. Don't act like a fake teleprompted machine. The second thing that keeps a good game show host around is one that the audience can relate to. This goes back to being yourself or being real in front of the camera. A host that shares a personal side of himself with the audience makes people watch. This is not to say that you spill your dirty laundry but relate to the contestants. A good sense of humor is a positive also

Answer 183

If it's Bill Shatner, then it seems to me he already has a great mix of key ingredients. Outgoing personality, over the top acting- at times with a gravitas approaching melodramatic proportions, yet doesn't take himself too seriously, and imagine he can appropriately dish out as much as he takes. My view is that this new role would fit this fine man- indeed, a national treasure- like a glove.

Answer 184

I believe that the rule to being a good host is to recognize your contestants as people. Bob Barker represented this best and accepted that everyone on his stage was there to meet him as much as play the game. William Shatner is an icon. He will be in a position to make those contestants feel like winners even if they don't win, because they got the chance to meet him. It is up to him to treat those contestants kindly and with humility, not as a nuisance, like some other hosts tend to do (Regis).

Answer 185

When it looked like a host was having fun with the contestants/panelists of the show, it made things more interesting. Appearance is another factor. As much as I liked Louie Anderson as a comedian, I never felt that he pulled off hosting “Family Feud”. Lastly, shows that seem to be nothing more than a vehicle for the host/hostess to prattle on about themselves and don’t try to have the viewers become invested in the contestants never interest me.

Answer 186

There are a few things. Audience participation is awesome, not just at home but in the audience too... Why is Jeopardy so popular? 'Cause everyone's shouting out answers... Correction, Questions at the tube... Same for Wheel of Fortune, Who wants to be a Millionare, and especially The Price is Right (everyone can guess prices.)

Bill Shatner has personality, if you get the people involved it'll be a success... Get me involved it'll be a super success... Get Ben Folds involved you'll get your own network.

Answer 187

# 1 Knowing the game your hosting!! # 2 Having a great personality!! # 3 Having a Great looking Co Host. lol! Having a great sense of humor!! # 4 Choosing the right game show to host!! # 5 Having the ability to make friends with EVERYBODY you meet! # 6 Knowing when its a Good time to ask for a raise and when not to!! # 7 Knowing how to relate to the Audiance in Studio and at home!! # 8 Having a Great smile all the time with good teethe!! # 9 Having a great make up person!! # 10 Last but not least at all is LOVE!!

Answer 188

I think that the best show hosts have great body language and facial expressions. Not only that, but those whom are interested in the contestants thoughts and actions in their game. Jokes if there are any should not be the kind like "why did the chicken cross the road" or making fun of the contestants, but more or less poking fun at yourself or co host. Be interested and interesting. Your laugh should be contagious if something is genuinely funny than laugh don't be so serious. I can't wait to see the show.

Answer 189

You have to always be as happy as the contestants and always show that you are caring and compassionate. You also need to really and truly be having FUN because you can't fake that time after time. If I was William Shatner I would pattern myself more after Sajak than any of the others. Still you need to be yourself always! Bill Shatner would a perfect game show host anyway he's got that type of personality.

Answer 190

A sense of humour, likeability, personality, energy, enthusiasm (for the show you're hosting) and charm. I think William Shatner should just be himself, that's makes most people and fans in particular, comfortable with him. Those of us who grew up watching Star Trek and other shows that starred him should agree. He would make an excellent, funny and entertaining gameshow host.



Good Luck, Mr. Shatner...

Answer 191

For William Shatner...it takes personality

Answer 192

For William Shatner it should be Star Trek Based

People who have appeared in Star Trek and Fans

It should be based on The Enterprise with all the characters played by Famous People

A Cult Show !

Answer 193

William you would make a great game show host, you have a great voice and you are not shy of the camera. If I could be candid I think however that you might want to go for a more healthier looking image and lose a bit of weight because you are a little bit round in the mid section. I think that you would look great if you tightened it all up. I love your complexion, not too pale but just right. So get in shape and go from there!! :) nicole

Answer 194

It has a lot to do with personality and looks. William Shatner is one of the my most favorite actors of all time. I think he will be a great game host. I will watch it all the time just to look at him.



Esmeralda

Answer 195

#1 is enthusiam - a love of the game. Barker and Trebek are not big jokers but you can tell they can't wait to start the game - just like the fans. I think you would be a GREAT host if you bring your enthusiasm to the game and keep bringing the focus BACK to the game. Do not veer off, or if so as comic relief, quickly return to the game. Do not use comic relief when tension is high - let it build and keep the audience biting their nails. Although the format is very confining, it is an opportunity to showcase your lighter side and your serious "it all comes down to this" side. Good luck!

Answer 196

Bill,



A great game show host has two qualities:

1. He has to be downright likable.

2. He has to know when to let the contestants have the spotlight because they are where the interest lies most of the time.



I think you would make a fantastic game show host. You would have to use the Bill Shatner style though: You have the likability thing nailed (the "je ne sais quoi"). Let people play off your personality so they can shine during the contest and everyone will want to tune in.



Examples: Regis' run with "Millionaire". Regis is a great personality unto himself, but at least 50% of the entertainment was the way he let people play off his personality. They became the entertainment.



Bill - please become a game show host. Thanks.

Answer 197

Charm and humility.... Certainly not an easy task for William Shatner! Maybe the charm but humble? I don't think soooo!!!

Pat Sajak, the Jeopardy guy, and now the comedian doing Deal or No Deal - all have that 'endearing', self-deprecating qualities. Shatner is a likeable guy - but really full of himself. I really liked him as Capt Kirk and I laugh like hell at his Denny Crane -- but I'm no so sure about him as a game show host...............!

Answer 198

Shatner, you will have no problems being a good game show host. You are a funny in a self-effacing way, and in a way that mocks viewers in a good humored way as well. Maybe I can only speak for myself, but when I watch you in documentary / mockumentary type roles -- it's as if you've included us in some kind of inside joke -- and it's a lot of fun. Keep up the good work.

Answer 199

A great game show host must have the ability to pull the viewing audience into the action. Make me feel like I'm right there with the contestants. Give me just enough that I want to come back for more, don't give it all up at once, make me tune in again. That in my opinion is a key ingredient for a great game show host.

Answer 200

Mr. Shatner you are funny on Boston Legal and in the Priceline commercials so I know you can be funny. I think being fun and witty are important. Keep people laughing and be nice to the contestants - people don't like mean! Well I take that back if you get a really dumb contestant you may have to make fun of them!

Good luck! I'm watching you!

Answer 201

well first off i think i should make something clear i don't believe William Shatner exhists the man's real name is Jose Smith. Then i must say that the host isn't really what people watch the show for they watch for the weird sidekick so i'd change my name as to not be associated with the fame then i'd audition for the part of the sidekick if i were you, but i'm not so i won't.

Answer 202

Mr. Shatner: Just be yourself. What I've always liked about your post-Star-Trek-career is your ability to not take yourself too seriously. You're already a really funny guy, especially when you play off the things that folks used to criticize you for (overacting, etc.) Don't patronize the players like Alex Trebec does, only pretending to be interested in the details of their lives, and don't belittle them. Be yourself, be funny, and you can't fail. Good luck to you! Oh, and - learn from Bob Saget. He was quite possibly the WORST host of any program in history (America's Funniest Videos). 90% of his jokes were lame, and I left every show thinking he was either the LEAST funny human being alive, or he had the worst joke writers of all time. Don't force the humor. Humor is either funny, or it's not...

Answer 203

Enthusiastic, Funny, Focused....I think, Mr. Shatner, you can be all three and become a great game show host - Let your enthusiasm show from beginning to end; be funny with your quick witted "zingers" - laugh at yourself as well as everyone else...and be focused - stay focused on the game - never letting side bar conversations etc; take away - best of luck, Mr. Shatner

Answer 204

Mr. Shatner,

The key ingredients to a great game show host are: charisma, a sense of humor about oneself, and the "pregnant pause", which allows for dramatic suspense. You have all three in spades. I have a feeling you'll do just fine. I look forward to your new endeavor.

Marc O.

Answer 205

Unfortunately, William, I find it hard to believe that you will ever become a great game show host. The greatest hosts were introduced into their fame through the show they are famous for. That is their appeal. The host embodies the show and the show embodies the host. That is why there is such appeal in seeing them outside of their element (Bob Barker in Happy Gilmore for example). It is interesting because they taken out of the world we see them confined to.

You, on the other hand, have a long list of credentials coming into your new show. You will always be William Shatner, who happens to be hosting the show; never the host who happens to be William Shatner. You will rank up there with Regis and Howie, but never with Bob and Alex. You fame will limit you from becoming one dimensional, which is not a bad thing.

Answer 206

In the history of game show hosts, I think the great ones all have one thing in common- they are adorable. And I am not necessarily talking about looks, but their personality. A charming, adorable, funny, energetic (but not crrrazzy) host is what sticks out in my mind for all the greats. These are all qualities William Shatner already posseses, so I think he would be a great host!

Answer 207

Well, wow...what great answers! I don't know how much more, if any I can add, but this is what I think....



First and foremost, you need "personality". Not in the sense of having a "great personality", but an air about you that stands out from others in a crowd.



You need to have confidence and hold yourself in high self esteem without appearing arrogant or cocky.



You should not only be able to poke fun at yourself, but your contestants as well without being mean spirited.



Intelligence and a sense of humor are a must.

(hey-this is sounding more and more like a personal ad-hehe)



A poker face is needed sometimes, but keep in mind a true show of emotion is even better.



A genuine hope that the contestants do well and you are truly interested in who they are and what they have to say is very nice. It will show.



Being able to be a strong, in charge host without taking away from the show itself or "stealing the show" from the contestants is a fine balancing act, but should be done.



Last but not least, Have fun, BE yourself, ENJOY yourself, care.



I seriously don't think you will have a problem with any of the above-

I think you're the best and I wish you the greatest of success in your new endeavor!!



P.S. If you have any more questions, email me,lol ;) Kel

Answer 208

A quick wit, great intelligence, a master of trivia and being a good listener are the keys, IMHO. The best hosts are facilitators and not the stars of the show - the contestants are. Someone watching the show must feel like they are with the contestant, a participant themselves. The person watching the show does not want the contestant to be threatened by a host, especially one as famous and legendary as you have become. So you have to make the contestants feel at ease and let them be the star. If you can do that, you will be a show host I will tune into.

Answer 209

If it is a TV actor, and he has gained weight he MUST be proportionate to his height. I asked this question once before "what has happened to William Shatner?" Scottie couldn't beam him up if he wanted to...Why has he gained so much weight? We've loved him in all his movies. He was thin then. So why hasn't he gone to Jenny or somebody to fix the weight problem? (By-pass is even ok). This is a handsome man we have respected over many lightyears! Has he gone where no man should be going or is it "eat much and prosper?" He's certainly doing both. I can't even look at him on TV anymore! He's a Puff!

Answer 210

Dear Mr. Shatner...



My first thought was to tell you to watch certain other hosts etc...And my first instinct would have been exactly WRONG.



You need to just be yourself. Let your audience discover a bit more of who you are. If they like you as a game show host you make it. It not then move on to other things.



I have enjoyed the work that you have done so far and I wish you the best of luck in the future.



sincerly yours,



batting500

Answer 211

I think that since I had a petition going for you to be on Dancing With the Stars this season as a contestant that you have the qualities that it takes to be a great game show host. You have the charm, sense of humor, approachability, and smoothness it takes to sweep anyone off their feet. It takes that sparkle in your eyes that lights up a room and a commanding presence to make a game show host shine. Look at the people that succeeded. People loved Richard Dawson when he was on and his behavior today would be considered sexual harassment. I think that when I saw the promos for your show I knew that my instincts were correct for putting you in the spotlight because you have that genuineness about you that people look towards. I know that this going to be great fun for you and above everything that is the most important.

Answer 212

I offer my opinion only. I haven't done research on this but I am one of the vast public and the public or people are the ones watching and that is where the tv ratings come from. If you are a good game host the ratings will be good providing the people like the game as well.



I think that you have to genuinely like people. If you do then it will come across to the viewers. I saw one game show where I liked the game itself but I didn't watch it because the host seemed almost angry at the people playing the game often throughout the game.

Answer 213

I suppose the most important is Charisma. If anyone wishes to be a great game show host they should contact the best in the field. That would be Bob Barker and his produces, director and announcers. You can't get any better then that. For years he has hosted The Price Is Right. He has to be the most successful host ever. Millions of followers. I think he is the second most recognized face known to the common man, following Mohamed Ali. That a feat that can't be copied. It would be the same if I wanted to be an actor with the role of a space ship captain, I would come to you for advice.



I think you would be a perfect game show host, you would just have to interact with the game show player, and the audience instead of yourself. By the way, you do realize the Bob is retiring. I think you would be a perfect host for that show.

Answer 214

I think the one key ingredient a great game show host needs is to never, ever forget the game player's name. The world is filled of people who cannot remember the name of the person they were just introduced too....I believe this is extremely important! If nothing else, the other party feels you are interested in meeting them and interested in hearing what they have to say.



On the other hand, I do not think Mr. Shatner needs any advice - he has it all!! Personality plus! He surely makes Boston Legal worth watching along with his co-worker James Spader. I will certainly be tuning in to "Show Me The Money"!!!!!!!!!!!!

Answer 215

Dude, you are William Freaking Shatner!!!!! Isn't that enough? What is wrong with the world when William Shatner needs our input about how to be in charge. Mr. Shatner, Engage. Best of luck!

Answer 216

Please don't "jabber" -- or talk too much. Don't try to be overly funny. Don't insult the audience by over explaining or repeating yourself too often. Be charming, flirty, and use facial expressions instead of 1000 words. Host a game that makes sense and doesn't have so many "pieces" to it that it becomes confusing. Give us variety and color. Keep up the pace. Get some great bumper music, not something that sounds like a spaceship taking off. Don't dress in a suit. Be fashionable. Let the contestants do some of the talking - with limitations, of course. "Wow" us.

Answer 217

The key to being a good game show host is humility. Nobody likes a host who shows up his/her guests. Make the guests the focal point of the attention and just be charming. Don't force jokes that just aren't there. It isn't the host's job to be funny. The interest in the program will be generated by the game. If the game is good, people will watch, no matter who is hosting. Think of Alex Trebek. Nobody likes him, but he's been the longtime host of one of the most popular game shows in history. He stays out of the guests' way and lets the game be played.

Answer 218

Oh, Bill... Here's what you need to bring back your career in the form of a game show host: You already have the name out for yourself, so all you need is charisma. But, you also need the HAIR!!! Show me one game show host (well, besides the English lady from the Weakest Link) that didn't have fantastic, hurricane-proof hair. You need the smile/wink combination that can make old ladies swoon, too. Depending on the type of game show, you need a little jog to get from one point to another (you know, when you pick a contestant, they run onstage and you have to guide them to another area... just a little graceful jog is all....). Of course, what is a game show host without a memorable announcer (Ladies and Gentlemen, Biiiiiiilllllllllllllllllllllll Shatner!). You have to be able to subtly make fun of the contestants (like Regis), but without giving off arrogance. You need an awesome and memorable set, along with music that gets stuck in the viewer's head (like the Jeopardy! theme, and the little ditty from The Price is Right). Let us not forget that you need an original microphone: Bob Barker has his trademark pen-sized microphone, Trebek has his podium, Regis has a clip, and Wink Martindale has the bulky mic. You also need an award-winning, eye-catching wardrobe. Something that when somebody wears it, people will be like, "Say, is that from the Bill Shatner collection?"



All in all, I'd say you pretty much have this job all set. Find yourself, my friend.

Answer 219

Just be Yourself. You already possess what it takes to be the great game show host. I always thought you were a Great Actor and Performer. You will be a Great Game Show Host!



Love Ya William Shatner & God Bless,



Roy

Answer 220

Certainly not a character like Shatner? Howie Mandel squeaks by as a guest show host. Not Shatner......Won't like the exagerated pauses he was famous for on Star Trek being played into the game host arena. How about Jay Leno? Isn't he passing this next season. At least there would be a level of comedy rather than emphasized Treky talk.

Answer 221

Charisma - You have to get the audience's attention

Ability to adapt to the situation - You never know what will happen or how someone will react if they win or lose so you need to be able to handle any situation.

Humor - I would watch a game show for the host's jokes if they were great. Not mean humor, just gentle humor, the kind that wouldn't make you cringe if you retold the joke to your Mom!

Answer 222

Don't I know you from somewhere?



You used to drive me nuttier than an outhouse rat when you came across as arrogant. But then you started to do those commercials with Nimoy - that stuff was the best.



You do the "Deer in the Headlights" look better than any man I've seen.



When you began to laugh at yourself, I started to laugh with you - heck - I even forgave the whole "american citizenship" thing.



An earlier post mentioned "fill unexpected dead air". When that happens - use the "uh... " with the "deer in the headlights look.

I don't care if anyone hates it like i hate games shows - I'd watch it just for that.







(and please - for the love of all things holy - lose the red vest it has "Don Cherry Loud" written all over it and screams "Look at me I'm goofy." (note the quotes ;-) )



A couple of tips.

Bring a tribble

Mention Winnipeg and Canola

Don't use "Disposable Crew Members"

And avoid Vin Di Bona's joke writers like the plague.

That stuff is only funny when... no - it really never is. :-)



Have a great run and prosper.. *ahem*

Answer 223

I appreciate when a host knows the show so well that he is not flustered, when he has to add in a one-liner.



It is in this state that a host can come off looking like a natural, witty person (everyone loves witty comments) and not lose his composure.



I think "Practise is the key", and it will help make a fun-time for the host as it becomes easier. We are at ease with a host that is enjoying himself, that makes us enjoy the show more.



My husband and I love Game Shows. Best Wishes, I look forward to catching episodes of you on the show. I hope this is helpful.

Answer 224

In my life as a television game show junkie , there are precisely

four things , Captain , that are essential ingredients to making

a great game show host . Number one , and probably the

least important , having a big head . All the great ones do . Number

two , knowing the game like the back of your Vulcan hand and

being unshakeable . Number three , being quick witted . It's

entertaining and usually endearing . And the fourth thing is . . . .

Smile , smile , smile . Good luck and warp speed.

Answer 225

Simple likability, personality, and charisma. Look at Bob Barker, Pat Sajak, Chuck Woolery, or even Regis Philbin: no one can possibly hate them, and their shows have survived(especially The Price is Right and Wheel of Fortune) while so many have failed around them. The other key ingredient you need is the ability to gloss over mistakes and keep the show running.



One other thing: avoid forcing jokes. Audiences hate this, and it's a great way to cut your career short.



Good luck. You should be a natural at this.

Answer 226

To be perfectly honest I have been laughing at William Shatner since the old Star Trek days. I would be yourself and laugh along with the moment. If some one finds the situation funny assume it is and go with it, let your own unique personality come out!

Answer 227

When hosting a game show, you have to look at long running shows. The most known game show hosts act professional. Bob Barker is the best example of this. Yes he has some fun, but he doesn't act like a jackass. Two others that come to mind are Pat Sajak and Alex Trebeck. During the shows, they are nothing but professional. At the end of the Wheel of Fortune, they allow Pat Sajak to say what's on his mind and that's when I don't like him. What do all of these hosts have in common? They all act their age. None of them are trying to be young or goofy. They are having fun with the younger contestants, but they aren't trying to be one of them. When an older host is acting goofy, I think they're crazy. This goes double for celebrities who have been normal in the past. The other thing that makes a game show host great is the show. If the show sucks, there's nothing a host can do except be captain of the ship and go down with the show.

Answer 228

A good game show! That's first. If the show has no legs, it won't matter how good the Host is. A host, no matter how famous, cannot save a stinky show. On the other hand, a great show will MAKE an unknown host a Star. Alex Trevec is an example. He's not only intelligent and a first rate host, he's on a show that is gold in game shows. In short, William, you want a show that will live long and prosper!

Answer 229

Be as cheesy as possible. In other words be yourself! DON'T kiss the contestants butts, DON'T fake laugh at their jokes. If anything be mean to them and insult their stupidity. Break into song at any point for no reason. Prance around and show off how great you are. I'm deadly serious. William Shatner Rules and the world should know it.

Answer 230

Be pleasant and polite to the contestants. The shock of dull rudeness like in The Weakest Link may for a while be good for ratings, but it makes the viewers feel bad in the end and embarassed for the contestant. The great ones like Sayjak and (in my opinion) the late Peter Tamarkin are always cordial and supportive and just make viewers want to watch their show, kind of like visiting an old buddy. Barker has done the same thing, and that's how you connect with your audience instead of isolating them and making them pick sides between the host and the contestants.

Answer 231

As someone posted before, and this wouldn't apply to just anyone Mr. Shatner, be yourself. One thing I often credit you with is your ability to open up and do comedy without sacrificing your integrity. I think that if you hold the standard of your past to what you do in a game show it could only be a success.



The other two main ingredients are quick wit and an ability to engage the audience with the experience on stage. (real)Laughs from the audience make us, the tv watcher, feel engaged as well. If you can always be ready with quick and funny comebacks along with keeping the audience "in" on the jokes you'll have a winner.

Answer 232

Hello Mr Shatner,



Firstly, I'm a life long fan of all your work as an actor, author and vocalist. Your recent album, "Has Been", is both powerful and beautiful and is one of my top 5 albums of all time. It utilizes your unique vocal style perfectly.



The key ingredients for being a good game show host are, in my opinion:



On camera rapport with the studio audience as well as the contestants.



Anecdotes but not too many.



Not taking ones self too seriously and presenting with the tongue pressed firmly in the cheek.



Giving a huge welcome to the viewers at home. We invite you into our homes, you should at least convincingly pretend to be happy to be there.



MOST IMPORTANTLY! Never say no to another season.



Hope you find these tips useful. Good luck with the show, hope we get to see it over here in the UK.



Buck

Answer 233

Always remembering that the guests are the stars of the show. The host that allows (or makes) them shine will shine as well. ALWAYS smile, be playful when that's called for.

Sitting down and watching three or four years of the Price is Right would definitely help. There's a reason Bob Barker has been on television for more than 50 years.

Answer 234

Hey Mr. Shatner...

I believe that the key to being a great game show host is to be charming, witty, yet humble. The key is to make the contestant feel that they are the most important thing in the world. You are there to guide them to greatness or warn them of impending doom. This should be done in such a way that you are comforting, yet very charismatic at the same time. Imagine the best parties that you ever went to and how much you respected and admired the host. Think of how that person made you feel and how he/she acted and respected others. These are the attributes you should strive for. PS>check out my restaurant www.jerseystylepizza.com, and please stop by when in STL. Thank you for years worth of entertainment. You enriched my life! We are HUGE fans!



Best of luck with your new endeavor! We will be watching...





Jon Feraro

Answer 235

I think one of the keys is to be warm, friendly and engaging. Most people need to be put at ease because they aren't used to being on television. A good host can sense this and help the contestants. I am not a hard core Trekkie but I enjoy star trek. Everyone remembers your commanding role in space, but this is more difficult dealing with everyday people that aren't actors. Also acting with the same people for years is nice because of the rapport that you build and the comfort that you have being around the same cast. You will now have a different cast with each new contestant and must be able to perform with them as easily as regulars. Thanks for the all the performances through the years. Good luck!

Ray Vivian

Answer 236

Hey Mr.Shatner!!

Congratulations on your new game show role!! I can't wait to see the show :) I havn't read the other answers, as there are way too many..so I hope I havnt repeted everything. Ok so here is my recipe for a great game show host:

You need to be funny without being corny-like dont pull any cheesy jokes.

You really need to be into your show-like pretend its your first time evertime and be just as excited as your contestant, but at the same time know exactly whats going to happen.

I also think that it very important to have just the right wardrobe, yep, make sure your dressed just right! if you dont like it change it ..you need to be comfortable

and my last bit of advice is to have fun!! cause if your having fun so are the rest of us!!

Take care and good luck

If you need some more advice feel free to ask me

Answer 237

To: William Shatner, you have an image to maintain no matter what you star in, you are best at making viewers feel good, making them laugh, your expressions tell the story, keep those, above all have fun with the show and the show will take care of you. Keep Americans enjoying your happy personality, making them feel good, we all need that, be yourself.

Viewers will want to tune in just to watch you! The show will just be a plus.

Answer 238

The ingredients to be a great game show host are a great sense of humor, charisma, intelligence, knowledge of the game backwards and forwards, good interaction with contestants. Don't forget about the viewers. Make them feel like they are in the studio, too. Oh, and a great game show host should should have a certain hipness and style.

Answer 239

Well spoken, nice looking, a snazzie dresser, a big energentic personality. The ability to converse with the contestants and have the audience respond to that interaction in a positive way. Knowing the rules of the game show that you are hosting so the audience will rely on the host as an expert on that game show contest.

Answer 240

The ability to interact with a crowd is the only way to save face when you are a focal point in a show. The attention has to be re-directed so you don't seem like you want the spotlight. Putting the spotlight on the contestant will bring more success for the host. Also, a host has to have the ability to laugh with the contestants without making the contestant feel like he/she is laughing AT them. A calm, quick wit also helps.

Answer 241

Key ingredient to making a good game show host, is not making the show about yourself. Certain bits of light joking around also helps a great deal to get the nervousness out of the contestants and the audience will enjoy the banter.

Answer 242

If this is truly the real Mr. Shatner (aren't you originally from my home town of Montreal?)...a pleasure to offer input.



I think that the ingredients have more to do with characteristics or qualities:



Engaging but doesn't always appear 'on', ie a great actor doesn't appear to be 'acting at all', interesting, makes comments that the viewers can identify with (ie, say what they'd be saying or...thinking)...



Finally, the show itself has to be interesting, different and unique!



Good luck...cheers.

Answer 243

Charisma is definitely needed. A good sense of humour is an asset. I think that William Shatner can do a great job as a game show emcee. I hope that he doesn't leave Boston Legal though--love that show!

Answer 244

The most important word is "great." The key there is combination of many elements: wit, intelligence, people skills, enthusiasm, appreciation for diverse people, modesty, and much more. To tell the truth... when you look at the really great game show hosts (Bob Barker, Alex Trebeck, Pat Sajack, Chuck Woolery, et al.), they all had the ability to BE THEMSELVES. My advice to Mr. Shatner: we love you just the way you are. Be true to yourself, have a good time, and ignore all of the rest of the Dear Abby people telling you what to do -- including me!

Answer 245

Mr. Shatner,



You have always had the ability to make people listen when you speak. People will remember you for your humor and acting abilities. Just be yourself and never downplay the contestants or the audience. But mostly, don't over work yourself. The camera shows alot. Lots of rest and eat well. It's sounds motherish, but you'd be surprised at how far it goes. It's good to see you back out in the light again. I enjoyed you on the Trek series and look forward to this new show. Be well this week and most of all, goodluck.



Sincerely,

Christina

Answer 246

Be likeable, be yourself. And in your case, Mr. Shatner, those two qualities just happen to go hand in hand. I have no doubt that you will be an excellent game show host. Of course, you don't need some ordinary guy like me telling you that.

And don't worry about the ratings. All those trekkies (like me) watching the show will keep it afloat.

And thank you for reading my answer after having read over 2000 other answers.

Answer 247

Captain Shatner,



I have to say, I really enjoyed watching and re-watching the episode you did on the Twilight Zone (strange creature on the wing of the plane)!



Anyways, to be a great game show host -- the show has to be about the game. You have to make it exciting, in a way that only William Shatner can do! I know and love Star Trek, but you should resist the temptation to bring "Kirk" in, at least for now. Use your sense of humor, quick wit! And if your show guests try to get you to do "Kirk", you should ask them to give you their best "Kirk" impression! Then maybe on Halloween you could come on to the show in the Admiral Kirk uniform from Star Trek II: WOK.



I think you can make whatever show you do become fun. Call on your Thespian roots!



Glad to be able to comment to you!



David VP, San Francisco

Answer 248

The best key ingredient is a host that isn't William Shatner.

Answer 249

(Many. But here's my fav. that I made up on the spot.)

Shiny jackets! Most of the time shiny jackets with excessive amounts of flair, sequins, pins, glitter, etc. are the hallmark of a great game show *announcer.* But, in my honest opinion, I think it would be a lot more attention-getting to the audience and viewers if the host himself also had such an article of clothing. It should go along with the theme of the backdrop and subject matter of said game show, thereby developing a more efficient way of making the whole stage ...glow. (dramatic gasp here.) Granted, this isn't the 70's anymore, but it's still cool. I mean come on- how can you turn down gold velour? :)

Answer 250

Actually, I spent many hours as an audience member for the game show and I think Shatner has it all. He's definitely a handsome older gentleman, funny which I didn't know and can move it, move it. He had us laughing and made the guest feel comfortable. It's a cool show. Check it out! I'm sure the guys will get a kick from the young lady dancers.

Answer 251

I believe a game host should have timing most of all...got to wait for the audience response (give time to allow the funny to sink in). Give them that look, you know, like all the great comedians.The audience will feel the receptiveness and warm up. Where hesitation is concerned, I believe shatner has it down with plenty to boot.

Answer 252

Captain Kirk:

In order to be a successful/great game show host you should follow the following rules:



1.) Use your sense of humor/comedy at all times

2.) Don't take it or yourself too seriously

3.) Allow yourself and the game show players options to "break out of routine" or do or respond differently to things (this will bore the viewers less and keep us interested in tuning in regularly)

4.) Relate the show goings on to your previous Star Trek experiences (fictional). We would all appreciate an occasional aside about how contestants (like Spock) should approach questions and problems "logically" and "without emotion". For those of us over 13 years of age, this would provide a nice, occasional reminder of your and our roots in the old days, when television was entertaining (no offense intended for your new venture).

Answer 253

A great Game Show host, Has to be Charming and humourous but also must be able to bring out a side of his contestants they try to hide or not reveal. I find the best games shows are the ones were the contestants reveal alittle to much about them selves on national TV. Of course the host must be humourous enough to laugh it off or put in a joke of his own, even if its at the cost of his on diginity. And we cant forget a Smile, a smiling host always makes the game more enjoyable

Answer 254

William, William, William, as stated soooo many times over and over and yeah ........ over again, it's true you DO indeed need sense of humor, charisma, wit, personality etc etc etc........ but in truth Pee Wee Herman could host a game show AND if the game itself is interesting enough people will watch as also Elvis could come back from the grave (which in itself I would NEVER hear the end of "I told You So's) anyway he could host a game show and if it wasn't interesting enough to people although they'd watch at first his ratings would dwindle over time. And then only people like my mother and grandmother would still be watching. So yeah I'd have to say the game itself along WITH all the things you already have (as you know). Good Luck love, Huggs

Answer 255

I believe there are two basic qualities that most good game show hosts have. The first is based on the understanding that most game shows work because of the high level of emotion displayed by contestants and the viewers ability to tap into these feelings & to tap into the dream of quick wealth. A good host encourages such displays of emotionality and lets people roll with them, for a bit, when strong emotions come up. This is clearly seen in the current, popular game show host for Deal or No Deal.



I believe the second quality that most successful game show hosts have is a consistent, and well defined, on screen personality. I think game show viewers like a predictable, well organized format, and appreciate a host who is consistent in his or her behaviors. This consistency is often marked with a signature phrase or gesture. The Deal or No Deal guy has his two handed point that accompanies his signature "Open the case" line. Richard Dawson, Family Feud, had his signature "kiss" of all women on his show.

Answer 256

Smile ALOT, tell lots of jokes no matter how corny, be smooth with the ladies, wear a style of suit that is very unique even if it's tacky it's ok, hug the little old ladies, give lots of prizes to people just for trying, BE GENUINE! Bend the rules of the show, just a little, don't be like that mean lady from "The Weakest Link", DON'T part your hair down the middle like Pat Sajack! Have the ladies from "The Golden Girls" on your show, and you absolutely have to sing the theme song, that would be awesome! Last but not least, don't let Dr. Spock steal your thunder!

Answer 257

I think a game show host should be very flirtatious. As children we loved to watch Family Feud with the host that was so affectionate. Although these days you may get sued for looking at a contestant with the wrong eyebrow slant.

A sense of humor is also key but I don't think you will have any problems in that area!

Answer 258

You have to have personality. The crowd and the contestents have to make a connection with the host. A sense of anticipation is key to a great game show. The home audience will pick up on all of this and hopefully the ratings will go through the roof.

Answer 259

While a lot has to do with the personality of the host, the concept and quality of the game are also driving factors. The more unique the game, the easier for a host to sell. If the game is merely a replica of a current hit, the appeal will be less.



In regards to the actual appeal of the host - avoid the sugary sweet banter and do not feign interest in a bizarre behavior of a contestant. If a contestant does or says something totally stupid, do not ignore it - challenge or tease them.

Answer 260

William Shatner has the perfect look and style for a game-show host!



There is only one key ingredient: never show your temper.

Answer 261

Well step one is have a great game show. Obviously you can be a great host but if the game itself sucks it won't matter. The game needs to be simple so that everyone understands how to play easily or there needs to be a learning curve and you need to make people comfortable with it.



The host doesn't need a larger than life personality and doesn't need to be eccentric. Especially, though, the host doesn't need to resort to sensationalism. Over-drama can kill the interest in a show since over-drama tends to be predictable.



I wouldn't say model yourself after previous hosts because you have to be yourself. But I think two of the best game show hosts were Richard Dawson and Gene Rayburn. If you were going to get some tips, get some from those guys (Even if it's just watching Match Game and Family Feud ad nauseum. Oh come on. You know you want to.)

Answer 262

On a scale of 1-5 (5 being lowest) Have many beatiful people assist you in your game show tasks 2, ex. better looking women carrying out word signs - 2, or answer signs to the questions you ask, some guys wearing taxedos - 3 also helps.

Sense of humor is very important (1) - winning the $$ or not in a money game does not mean a lot in contrast with diversity of life.

Also making your game player feel confortable, i.e. hosting to the player :) - 2.

Personal appeal - 1 to 2.

Answer 263

Oh and I think another great trait is the ability to make the audience feel like they are there with you on stage and playing long too...after all that is what the home viewers do, is envision themselves being the contestant..so keeping that in mind as you guide the excitement and tension along. That is probably what you should be focusing on as a host as I'm sure it will be just as exciting and thrilling for you too! :~)

Answer 264

A great game show host must have electric energy, they must always be on the element of surprise and spontaneity, they must believe that every contestant in the audience will leave happy. A great game host must listen very carefully to draw out special purposes in their candidates, the host should have a specialized customized designer for the look and physical consistent gestures, he must also have a range of tone and pitch. The greatest game show hosts let the audience participate in gifts and wonder.

Answer 265

After seeing you on commercials and other content lately, I feel you have the makings of a perfect game show host. The heck with those boring hosts that stick to the program and show no real interest or charisma in the game or the people playing the game.



Yeah, just be your same old funny self and show up folks like Bob Barker and others who at the very least are old horses who should be on their way to pasture.



You've got what it really takes so.....



Go for it Bill



Richard

A fan from Florida

Answer 266

Besides a great sense of humor, I think the most important key ingredient should be your enthusiasm. Enthusiasm toward each and everyone of the players involved, the audience, and the game itself, day after day without fail and regardless of what is going on behind the scenes and in your personal life. The longevity of the show will be determined by the enthusiasm of the audience which is diectly related to you enthiasm. Enthusiams is contangious!

Answer 267

Well - most importantly I think you should be yourself - you obviously got the gig because they like 'you'.



That being said - I think humor is extremely important and being able to laugh at yourself - you may want to come in one of your old Star Trek get ups one time (old school is good and probably hits your target audience).



Some game show hosts are cheesy, but it differentiates them and allows them to stand out and become memorable for decades after they are finished.



I don't think you should use tanning beds or take tanning pills - I've seen Bob Barker up close and its not pretty.



I think taking a true interest in your contestants is important - you can tell some hosts aren't even listening to the contestants answers about themselves - very tacky.



I think if you have FUN - everyone else will have FUN (just like great talk show hosts).



Good luck and kick some A$$ out there :)

Answer 268

Dear Mr. William Shatner,

you are my hero.

The key ingredients to a great game show host are looks and wits. You are the perfect person for the job.

Answer 269

Finally a game show that I will actually watch. Shatner you bring greatness too everything you touch, you always bring smiles too every ones faces, you will only make the show better. For an older man you still are very nice to look at too.

Answer 270

William or can I be so bold as to call you Bill, or "Big Billy Shat" The point I'm making is this: You have always been a personality to re-invent himself you know, by boldly going where no man has dare gone before; The key ingredient is to confidently be able to reinvent yourself again and again. Bill! You're the man! The only dude that could make a crucial disnerving pass at the lady Anne Robinson and boost the ratings. You got the ingredients go on and write your script bro. Julius " Julio" Veal /obscure entertainer/parts unknown

Answer 271

Mr. Shatner,

I think you definitly have what it takes to be a great game show host. The most important thing is your interaction with not only the contestants, but with the audience as well. Remember that your audience can tell if you are faking! Lugh, Smile, and be happy! I'm rooting for you!

Jessica, 18

Answer 272

Mr Shatner! You already have all of the necessary ingredients to be the best game show host ever, sir.

Definately a good sense of humour but also presence is necessary.



PS - Hope you're doing well with the horses

Answer 273

You have all the makings of a great gameshow host, you've shown a truly unique sense of humor with your Priceline commercials, great artistry in both your writing & your acting: I'm a fan since the beginning of Star Trek, especially "The Trouble with Tribbles", & love you in westerns, Twilight Zone, & TJ Hooker as well!. Your recent Comedy Central "Roast" didn't fare so well, you wouldn't do well as the host of a show like "The Weakest Link"... don't go there! Be the charming, debonair, funny, dashing, suave Captain Kirk, toss in a little taste of Bob Barker & Jay Leno, and you'll have it all! Good Luck, I look forward to the show!

Answer 274

A natural interaction with the contestants in a lighthearted way. No overdone humor or anything that looks forced. Don't take over the line "please have your dog spade or neutered"--lol. A few short personal stories thrown in once in awhile so that the viewers get slightly involved more with the actual gameshow host. Keep the game fair and sympathetic toward someone who missed the money. I think you'd probably do well as a game show host--good luck.

Answer 275

1. HUMOR! Everybody enjoys laughing, it feels good... So humor is the most important element. It makes the audience feel good, it keeps them interested, and keeps the situation light-hearted, instead of being too serious.

2. As others have said, charisma plays heavily into the mix. Being able to charm people is so very important, because being in the people-business demands this skill.

3. Allow the contestants to show who they are- ask lots of questions so the audience can see their personality, sense of humor, HOW they came to decide to be on the show... Make them the STARS of the show, even if they don't win the big prize...

4. Humility- being a "real" person, instead of the stereotypical Hollywood star/starlet, who has a huge ego and a vacuous mind...



I think all of these things, combined in equal parts, would be the makings for a very successful game-show host.

Answer 276

Well, first, I'd have to say be yourself. Second, you have to have a comic wit. (Which, I believe you have, though a bit raw which isn't a bad thing.) You have to get the audience on your side, be charming (not overly charming, that just comes off as cheesy.) You have to know what's going on in the world around you, if nothing more then to know what people are talking about. And, lastly, I'd say you need to have a fun and enjoyable game(s) in the show and know how to work it so you can come off smelling like a rose (Like Bob Barker does). And having a good catch-frays doesn't hurt ether (so long as it's not lame). Well, that's about it, but the main thing is to be yourself.





Well, good luck and hope these help.

Answer 277

My opinion is that personality is the largest ingredient followed by likability.



I think your personality will be perfect for game shows. Your funny, clever, and a bit wild. By viewing the previews for the show I have seen the environment and think it is a good place for you- Jeopardy would not be! Mr. Trebek is wonderful at what he does, I just can't see him dancing with one of those beautiful entertainers as you were in the previews just as I don't think you would do as well reading the Double Jeopardy question.



I also think you are very likable. I watch Boston Legal solely because I enjoy watching you. I especially like watching you interact with MS. Bergen and Mr. Spader. I know Denny is just a character you play but he is who he is because of what you bring to the table.



Don't try to do it as Barker does - look at his demographic. I was home sick last week and spent my mornings watching his show and was in awe at how many Hearing Aid and Hover-Round commercials I saw. I doubt you are aiming for the same audience so start fresh and just be you. I think you will do an amazing job with the new game show. I just hope the show itself is something you can work with.

Answer 278

The Key ingredients is a person who connects with his audience as well as the gamers. I want to feel as if I am apart of the game by just watching. There are many ways to connect on this level. I also want a person that is for the game, remember the game is what brings reaction so don't get stuck on one reaction too long or make the gamer the point of the program. I tuned in to see THE GAME!

Answer 279

Charisma seems to be the number one answer on here. But to further elaborate on that, you need the ability to not only get along and joke with your contestants, but the ability to be sarcastic and witty helps a great deal. Being able to think on your feet and come up with a witty repsonse to any situation or any person is probably the Game show hosts greatest asset. It's not all about "cheesey" anymore, now it's about who is more entertaining to watch. Always keep that in the back of your mind! Be yourself but more out there!!

Answer 280

When I saw this question address on my Yahoo site, I felt a great need to answer. Because I am a Hospitality Major at Lewis-Clark State College, in Lewiston Idaho, I feel this question fits right in with my studies. Game shows are a form of hospitality. In the hospitlity industry we are entertainers of a sort and game show hosts fall into this category. The key elements I feel are necessary to great hosting are this:



Thank you for the opportunity to participate,



Kaylee Marshall



1. Know the dynamics that you are dealing with amongst your audience. Be prepared to relate to the many different ethnic backgrounds; including personality and beliefs. This may seem a very broad analysis, however your audience has come to you from many different cultures.



2. Be aware of your own personality. Keep your demeanor even and treat each contestant as if you were in their shoes. Realize what it is like to be on the other side of the game board.



3. Be natural and have fun. Create an exciting environment in which to host your show. This can be done effectively with your smile, eye contact, and overall tone in your voice. Remember that communication is not just words formed into a sentence, but body lanugage can speak just a loud.



4. Prepare just like you were about to give a speech. Study the environment in which you will be hosting your event. Posture yourself professionally, and know your material. These contestants come to compete, have fun, and expect the atmosphere to be well organized; this includes the professional ablities of the host/hostess of the show.

Answer 281

The host must have sense of humor but he doesn't have to push his jokes to the audience or the participants, this is, to really have fun while conducting the show... people somehow feel it, so it's important to enjoy the show. Also, he must be able to keep audience in suspense without using the same phrases or gestures... be creative! It's a good chance for people to know the host as he really is. It's important to create a good chemistry with all people being yourself.... people will remember you and will look forward enjoying an hour watching the show.

Answer 282

Be yourself. If you come off fake We will know. Reach out not only to your contestant but your audience even if you look a little bit silly. Have the confidence to look a little bit silly and be able to sincerely laugh at yourself. Never laugh at your contestant and at least make us believe you care about each and every one of your contestants. Too much flash along with the game will just distract us from the game and the game itself will bore us. Make the questions about real life stuff that most of your audience can relate to like recent event questions that happened in the last 10 years that are funny, a little bit serious or just plain interesting. Maybe some about Star Trek the movies, the show. We all love those. Always smile from your heart let it show in your eyes and don't be afraid to bow to greatness when someone really shines.

Answer 283

If you look back at the best hosts, (Groucho Marx, Wink Martindale, Gene Rayburn, Pat Sajak, Bob Barker, Alex Trebek, Peter Marshall) you would have to say that a rather dry sense of humor appears to be a common trait. Couple that with the ability to think on your feet to respond to often unpredictable guests and contestants and you are on your way to finding a great game show host.

Answer 284

The key to a great host would be one able to provide intelligent, quick witted banter, while still being personable to those he/she is conversing with. A perfect example is Mike Rowe of the Discovery Channel show "Dirty Jobs". He is able to chat with everyday folks about things that would turn some folks stomach, but make you laugh at the same time, with a 1-2 punch of one liners, and "Buster Keaton" type facial expressions. A great host should also be able to make you feel they have a complete grasp of what is happening on the show, while still being able to provide the audience with the appearance of being surprised by what happens during the show.

Answer 285

I am really sick if seeing Shatner on tv all the time, I don't understand why he is on tv and certainly don't think his personality is one for a game show host, in general he is annoying. A host needs to be likable, quick witted, good humored and not Shatner

Answer 286

Of course quick witted, a bit self effacing and the ability to laugh at oneself....... plus an appreciation of humanity and the small funny things in people. All things that it would seem that you have from seeing you on the screen in interviews and such. I'm betting that you are one funny guy! But I think as well having people percieve an inner strength underneath it all that would help in pacing the show and keep things moving along when needed.



Good luck to you Mr. Shatner!

Answer 287

I like a host that shows genuine interest in those that are beig interviewed. A host should be a people person and know how to ask questions that go deeper than the weather. I stopped watching Letterman because he treated people so badly. A good host makes his guest feel important and interesting. If you can remember this you will be sucessful for a long period of time. Be relaxed and be interested in your guests and the success will come. They, the guest, will bail you out of uncomfortable conditions. Good luck in your new adventure. Remember to pray often and sacrifice your sins for divine help.

Jack Perine

Answer 288

Key ingredients to an excellent talk show host is to be a people person. You should be quick with good one liners. Jokes are okay sometimes, but just keep them to a minimum. I have watched Bob Barker for GOD knows how long. I am 34 years old and can't ever remember getting tired of him. Every game show host has a gimmick. I pray yours won't have anything to do with "Star Trek". Don't get me wrong, it was a good show but let's move on now shall we. Just make sure everyone who is watching your show is having a good time. It's very important to include everyone on the panel into the fun. Good luck and GOD bless you.

Answer 289

The key ingredients to a great game show host are basic. The number one ingred. is self confidence. A game show host must be able to stand in from of a group of people, and also a thousand other people and not crack under pressure. Also they need depending on the game show a great sense of humor or even a dry sense of humor. Thirdly they need to be able to smile, dress, and look good always. Cause we all know the camera is always watching. Other then that some one that can have fun.

Answer 290

A good sense of humor coupled with spontaneous jokes. Key is acting humble, it's too easy to act arrogant when you have the answers written down for you (don't act like Trebek!).



Bottom line it's a sweet gig. You do a weeks worth of shows in a day, you just tell someone if they're right or wrong and you move on. On the most basic level, if you have a pulse & can speak, you can be a game show host.

Answer 291

Personality and enthusiasm and a knowledge of the game. Bob Barker has it all. A good study of his shows would give you everything you need, I think. But I think you have it anyway. Shatner, you'd make a GREAT host for any show (Maybe "The Price is Right"?) Your personality and sense of humor is amazing.

Answer 292

Whatever you do don't try to add suspense to a game show, People want to be entertained. If you try to draw out a contests answer you will only make people want to change the channel. Who wants to be a million-are and Deal or no Deal are great examples.

People also want to play along at home and try to do better then the contestants on TV. If you can keep the home audience in it you will have it. Examples being Jeopardy, Wheel of Fortune and Price is Right

Answer 293

Amusing, personable, gracious, intelligent - and #1: the ability to demonstrate a healthy rapport with the contestants (not see them as mere grist for the mill) and the audience. That wonderful rascal William Shatner could be a perfect choice!

Answer 294

The first step is to remember that the show isn't really about you. The excitement comes from the contestants, their engagement with the contest and the host, and the degree to which the audience can identify with those who are in competition.



As a non-biased Canadian, (are there any other kinds?) keep in mind the tradition of Canadian hosts who help those on stage be comfortable which allows them to be expressive and genuine in their responses.



You seem to have an honest, self-deprecating nature and project a warm and approachable personality. (again all good Canuck characteristics HOWEVER long it has been since you were at Stratford!) Those will stand you in good stead as a host.



Don't take yourself seriously. It is entertainment not rocket science.



I look forward to your efforts should you decide to proceed.

Answer 295

Is this question a joke?!? William Shatner is the Wayne Gretzky of hollywood. AKA "The Great One". There would be absolutley no other "ingredient" needed for Shatman to host a game show flawlessly.

Answer 296

I think the quips need to be at a maximum. Comedic timing is key, however it doesn't need to take away from the contestants nor the intent of the show. It must be germane.



Also, the more humble he can be the better. People are endeared more to Pat Sajack than they are say, Alex Trebek.



Good luck, looking forward to seeing William's charisma in the game show format; should be a tremendous success!

Answer 297

Ingredients for a Great Game Show Host:



2 cups of Charm

3 cups of Vocabulary (verbal skills)

1 cup of Humor

1 cup of Witty/Snappy comebacks

1 oz. of sympathy for contestants who lose

A dash of dimples

A clean pressed suit.



I think William Shatner has all the above plus a wonderful stage presence to make any game show a success!



I'd love the opportunity to be a contestant!

Answer 298

A great host is one that knows the game inside and out, keeps the game moving, is quick witted enough to intellectually smack around real dumb contestants. They are also masters at the double entendre' especially with sexual references if it's not a daytime show (ala Gong Show and Hollywood Squares). No phoney nice guy stuff. Think of Bob Saget being Mr. Sqeaky clean and everyone knew he was a 'blue' comedian. He just comes off as pure phoney SAP! But all-in-all a stupid game is a stupid game, and no host can make it better.

Answer 299

The key ingredients are charisma, a good sense of humor, and most importantly, a sense of caring about the contestant's success (a la Bob Barker). At worst, a game show host can be impartial to the contestant, but being antagonistic just makes the viewer resent the game show host (since we identify with the contestant).



Oh, and one more thing.......Denny Crane.

Answer 300

Genuineness, Intelligence and Attitude



The television audience of today is attentive, educated and decisive. There are countless shows out there and Tivo can only record so many at one time. You need to be true to who you are, genuinely William Shatner, people can spot a fake or someone trying to put on an "act". You will need to meet them at their level of intelligence or they will lose interest and set their dvr to record another game show. And you need attitude. Charisma will only get you so far but you need the character, which we all know you have, to back that charisma. You also need to know you are a great game show host. If you believe that then we have the ability to believe that.

Answer 301

Being good with people, fully of chrisma, good fun personality, funny but not silly.... You have what it takes and you'd make a fantastic host.... Just carry on and be yourself do what comes natural and not try to be something that makes you feel uncomfortable. Relax and make the contenders and audience relaxed and enjoying themselves and everything will fall into place... Be the real you and everyone will want to watch you, you're an amazing person that turn your hand to a lot of things, try not to be someone you're not or like another host just be YOU, as like anything else you've done everyone will fall in love with you and want to keep watching or fighting to get on the show.... Do what you feel is comfortable for you and not what others perceive you to be like....

Answer 302

I think that a good host need to be gracious, humourous, and a character. Anne Robinson (from the British version of "The Weakest Link") pretends to be cold and harsh, but otherwise good game show hosts are warm and supportive to the contestants. A host needs to be real, not wearing some "Game Show Host" Facade. Alex Trebec (fellow Canadian, might I add) always appears that he would also be able to be a great contestant on his own show, and for that he is respected and it increases his "likeability".

Good Luck Contestant, and this is how the game is played...

Answer 303

A sense of real connection with the players, the studio audience, and the home audience. Also, a real sense of fun--which you have in spades! One thing about your game show--a lot of the "must see" factor of Deal or No Deal (and even Millionaire) has to do with the contestant having to choose whether to keep playing or stick with the money they have. It just adds so much suspense, and it allows home viewers to "participate" by screaming at the television. Any way you can work that into your show? (I'll be rooting for your new endeavor--as long as it doesn't preempt Boston Legal again!) You. Are. Sensational! Come to my house for Thanksgiving! :)

Answer 304

A game show host needs to be very energetic and funny. They need to put the contestant at ease, and explain the rules of the game clearly. I personally think that William Shatner will be one of the greatest game show hosts ever. He is charismatic and delightfully funny. I can't wait to watch the show.

Answer 305

Hey Bill! I'm a big Shatner fan. Can't wait to see you in your role as host of the new game show. I think a great game show host needs to have a good sense of humor with clever, but not cheesy quips. Also, he needs to entertain, but not take over all the attention for himself. I thought Richard Dawson was a great host. He had a wonderful sense of humor, was very entertaining, but didn't hog the spotlight. Good luck with the new venture, looking forward to it.

Answer 306

friendly, polite, respectful and sincere. Being animated or forcing yourself to be "cute" is the surest way to NOT succeed! Starting out as a game show host-or any other profession-requires you to learn the format so the show will flow smoothly in the time frame you have to work with. Relax!, Be yourself! A sincere host is a bit humble and says "thank you" for letting me into your home. There is no doubt that God gave Bill Shanter alot of talent! Stay positive, upbeat and keep away from politics-which you probably already know. MOST IMPORTANT: Take a few minutes EVERY TIME your ready to go on camera and ask God to help and guide you- and He will! Good luck & God Bless!

Answer 307

To: My man, William "Willy S." Shatner aka. Captain Kirk!



Man, you shouldn't even be asking that question. You're The Kirk! You already have everything that you need to be the greatest host on T.V! You've got style, charisma, class and humor on your side.



And last but not least you have stage presense! You exude a powerful aura wherever you go.



I just wish I knew where you next autograph signing was going to be before time runs out. I'd really like to meet my childhood hero and favorite actor some day.



Take care, Mr. Shatner.



Holla back.



Oracle

Answer 308

I think the number one ingredient is balance of focus. You must be able to honor the audience as a whole and the individuals with whom you interact. Altercentric interest is important because we know if you are being fake or truly engaged with an individual. Your interest in and curiosity about show participants will endear you to us the audience. And of course having fun is a must -- and those moments where something strikes you as funny or odd or you have one of "those" moments with someone on the show that we all know was unscripted helps us as the audience view you as likeable and down to earth. All the best game show hosts have been low key, amusing, and completely audience/participant focused. Mr. Shatner, I wish you all the best with your new gig!

Answer 309

Sorry, but if I had to watch William Schatner for more than 10 seconds for any reason, I would not be able to keep my lunch down. He has to be the most obnoxious person I have ever seen in my life. I think a good game show host should not elicit that response from a viewer.

Answer 310

Congeniality, empathy, witty, etc etc etc.



But I would say that being a well known "name" you can bring something of your own humor, perhaps even a new take on the typical "vanilla" game show host and liven the position up. If allowed to stretch it out, it's entirely possible that you could attract old fans and younger people who wouldn't normally be caught dead watching a game show.

Key: If you're really having fun, the audience will also.

For instance, have Leanard Nemoy show up, just as he really is, and join the regular players - maybe celebs mixing with the regular constestants, keeping it light and fun or however it goes. The "pretty girl" could be a different guest celeb every week, or every once in a while. The "real" "pretty girl" could be really sexy and have fun with that. Spontinaity would be welcome!

Good luck with it!

Answer 311

1Address the audience not the contestants,they are fair game no matter who they are......

2Keep a counterpoint going throughout the show

that has its own last funny finale statement

"well I guess we wont find out tonight?"

3Have Ed Mc Mann there

4Have giant pictures of stars with their names on them

....full tabloid scenario

5 Dont be in digital animation a game show

needs lights and a big studio with a water tank

circus like

6Be able to open a studio door to the outside like Letterman -walk next door to the shop

7Make some of the prizes silly yet seeming very expensive not wanted by anyone disappointing

variety some real good ones

8 Get in disputes over the rules on the show that are

ever so horribly settled wrongly and worrysome

yet humorous in toto

9Dont listen to advice be extemperaneous

and remember to review all the work of Ernie Kovaks

Steve Allen Groucho all the way through Scare tactics that gal Shannon D

Answer 312

Hair. Really great TV Evangelist or Real Estate agent hair.



I would recommend against molesting contestants like Richard Dawson. Tends to be counterproductive.



Bob Barker has it down to a science. Find the most palpable and sensitive charity you can and make it your catch phrase. Smile. Smile a lot even when huge fat sweaty men hug you for winning a bass boat. Surround yourself with a bevy of beautiful women. Maintain your poise. Act like anybody's grandmother would be safe with you all of the time. Be paternal to the youth of America and never disparage them. Be over the top in an understated manner. Have a sidekick who provides the comic relief such as Roddy from the Price is Right.



Don't eat on stage like a talk show host. Practice all moves to be deliberate, concise and understated yet direct. No flailing of arms like a carny working a hot dog booth. Dress stylishly yet with tact and reserve the flair for your neckties and pocket scarf.



Above all else, don't undress in front of the interns during coffee breaks. I speak from experience that this ends badly for all.......

Answer 313

Keep it simple. Do not overact. People love a host, like Bob Barker, with whom they can relate on a comfortable level. The host must be capable of using the show participant and his/her reactions to build excitement in each participant segment. The show is about the contestant and not the host. Be a set up man for the contestant and pull the most out of him/her. That is the job, and the accomplishment, of every great game show host I have observed.

Answer 314

well since MOST people here gave the same lame answer, I've decided to go the less traditional route, Having watched MANY game shows in my time. I would opt to take the Simon Cowell approach to being a host. Think about it, you insult the contestants for answering wrong, you trash their intelligence and humiliate them on a daily basis. No one would ever forget you and BY GOD it would be the longest running game show next to Sale of the Century. HA! well, maybe Bumper Stumpers.....hmmmmm, I meant Card Sharks.... or was it WIn Lose or Draw.

Answer 315

William Shatner you should just be natural go with your personality, wit and charm. It has not made a difference

if you're Captain Kirk, T.J. Hooker, a villain, or comedian.

I grew up watching you all the way from the Twilight Zone to

your roast on comedy central and you are always entertaining

and likable.

Answer 316

Boldly go where no man has gone before. (ooo, I like it!) O.k., that was a bit cheesy, but in a sense, you can by being yourself. Other key ingredients would include, as I am sure that others have mentioned already, being honest, being interested in your contestants and just having fun with the job. As long as you are happy doing what you do and are able to be yourself through it, then success and satisfaction will be served all around.



Oh and by the way, too many bloopers cause unnecessary expenses. But hilariously funny bloopers make it over to Dick Clark's Bloopers and Practical Jokes.

Answer 317

Well, William already has them. First off he's a confirmed ladies man, confirmed in that even though he's getting older (we're all getting older) he is still funny, charismatic and a neat human being.

I think one of the serious keys, is the right game show. Like maybe one where people win bio-sustainable prizes and compete with ideas and articles about the environment and brainstorm ways to get the "common person" to care so everything doesn't melt away in our lifetime.

Here William would be awesome (third person since I don't think he's reading these.) After all he was Captain of the Enterprise, and he inspired generations of geeks, to care about the future, and hope for a brighter one.



Yes, definitely, I think someone should create the game show (admittedly in a _fun_ format, thus the word "game") around educating while entertaining. If Jim Henson were still around I'm sure he'd approve. :-)



But seriously folks, that's what I think.

You can "quote" me on it.

Answer 318

The ability to be humble, show a sense of humor (not forced) and a clear understanding of the game. William Shatner knows how to laugh at himself and is a classic T.V personality. I think he will do very well.

Answer 319

Charm and charisma (pretty much the same thing, but I wanted to use both words).

Every game show host that I've ever seen (Sajak, Barker, Jimmy Carr, etc.) always is naturally charming and has a charisma to them that's humble enough to be on the level with the contestants, but still know who's in charge. As with Carr (host of Distraction, one of my favorite game shows ever), even when he's insulting the contestants, he's still a good sport, always being coy and fun rather than mean-spirited and dull (I'm looking at you, American Idol and it's inhabitants).

Not that THE William Shatner should ever have to worry about charm and charisma, a man who's game enough to sit there and laugh at the graphic jokes thrown his way on The Roast Of Shatner and do one of the best Futurama episodes ever (Where No Fan Has Gone Before). It actually makes me wonder why you didn't jump in on it previously.

Answer 320

The Key ingredients are;

1) 2 cups enthusiasm.

2.) 1 cup ultra quick rapier like wit.

3.) A tablespoon of charm.

4.) A teaspoon of sympathy (for the game losers)

5.) A dash of cruelty. A little bit goes a long way.

6.) A sprinkle of intelligence.

7.) A pinch of good looks.

And your most important ingredient is...

8.)10lbs of a super hot, sexy co-host. (i.e. Vanna White)

Put this all in an oven and you will have your perfect Game Show Host. I hope this helps. Take care.

Answer 321

The key to become a great game show host are the 5 C's:



Charisma

Confidence

Character

Comedy

Compassion



Charisma, Confidence & Character go hand-in-hand. You need to be charismatic in order to get the people to like you. You need Confidence to in order to recover from in-studio flubs (they can happen). Character is more of a "it factor" & has the tendency to make up for shortcomings in the other two, but it also can assist with the mood of the game. When the Weakest Link debuted in the US, Anne Robinson being harsh assisted with the mood of the game by focusing more on shortcoming of the other players.



Comedy can be a key factor for it allows you to lighten up the mood of the show & it's helpful recovery tool when you happen to make a mistake. Just don't try to overuse it unless you want it for a blooper reel.



Compassion is pretty important, especially in high-tension or high-stake games. A bad comment when the players blow it can make you seem like a jerk & destroy the feel of the show. Unless the game is cut-throat (like the Weakest Link), you should try to support the players in a passive way.





A good way to work on your game show hosting skills will be to just practice! Get a demo script (something that wouldn't be aired) & play the game with a few friends in order to get the feel of the game (like the one Friend's Episode). It may not be exactly how the game will play when you get to the studio, but you'll have less surprises by knowing the game.

Answer 322

Cap'n Kirk: pleeeeeeze don't try to be cute or funny. A dance/show host, what were they/you thinking?Don't embarrass yourself and all of us other old overweight geezers.



The best game show hosts are genuine, gentlemanly and courteous to the contestants and audience. I'd definitely second the member who said " the contestants are the stars of the show, not the host."



Good luck with the show. We're die hard Trekkies, but that was a long long time ago.

Answer 323

Make the contestants feel like they are real people. Don't get too caught up in the games yourself. Have fun but don't take too much of the spotlight in the actual game segments. In the other parts really enjoy the interaction with the audience, contestants and tv audience. And one more thing, only invoke your previous characters' attributes when really necessary in other words try not to incorporate Kirk, or Hooker or any other of your great roles all the time. I think you will do a wonderful job and last of all.....HAVE FUN!!!!!!!!!

Answer 324

Seems to me you're having more fun these days than ought to be legal. Keep it up -- but stop cracking up your bike, okay? We don't heal as fast as we used to (grin).

A game show host, eh? Well, if you must -- I think you could be pretty good at it, with your offbeat sense of humor. Ingredients? A good game, for one. If you look at the game shows that have survived the longest, it's partly because of the host -- but only partly. The best ones have something about them that make people's minds work a bit. And it seems to me the best hosts are the ones who are nice to folks, and let them go away feeling good about themselves and what they've done there. Warmth is good, of the sincere and non-gushy variety. I never did like Dawson; all that kissy-face he used to do just seemed fake. He seemed bored with it all, and jaded; I found it demeaning to his guests, quite frankly. Trebec is perfect for "Jeopardy", but I don't think he'd be that good at any other show; he is, if you'll forgive me, almost Vulcan cool, which only works because of the intellectual nature of the show. Sajak is GREAT, and would be just as good on almost any other show than "Wheel". He's always kind to everybody, and has a dry kind of humor that I've never seen be inappropriate or mean. If you're looking for a model, he'd be the one I'd choose. I'd take what lessons I could from him, and make them my own. Which you will anyway; you've been a performer long enough to know better than to do it any other way. So there you go -- for what it's worth.



Aren't you running out of hours in the day to take on anything else?(LOL!) Can I send your horses a virtual carrot? (Make 'em real and tell 'em they're from a fan who loves furpeople.) Ta, sir.

Answer 325

You have to look and sound like William Shatner. That makes a great host.

Answer 326

Makings of a good host:

The longest running hosts have some key charactrer traits. Each one respects everyone equally. They have a genuine care and concern for everyone including the audience. Good hosts have charisma, but their charisma is driven by a very energetic interest in the participants and everyone they work with. They are engergetic about their interest in those they work with and they make the contestants the stars of the show. A good host has confidence in himself, but more so he has confidence in the contestants. He roots for them. And trys, within limits of fairness, to help them win. If I went on a game show, I would consider the show much memorable if the host genuinely wanted to be my friend druing my time on the show.

Answer 327

Mr. shatner don't do it. You are a talented actor with a good comedic sence you should open yourself to comedy roles like bert reynolds did. then get back int the serious stuff. Do yourself a favor and say away from game shows. Unless you own the game show you wont be getting what you deserve.

Answer 328

Good afternoon, I think once someone gets it down pack as to how they respond to what people say and do on the show. That will make them good. I have been watching Bob Barker for years and I think the way he reacts and responds to what is being said and done makes his show. If he is surprised he shows it , if he is caught off guard he plays it out in a friendly way and if someone is going to far to the left in playing a game he pulls them back in a nice way . Also he keeps the audience involved at home and in the studio. So it is almost like you are on stage too.To sum it up being able to connect in a normal wa and not embarrassing anyone or saying remarks that are off-handed but are remarks that are natural. I hope this helps.

Answer 329

Gun play. Lots of violent, even lethal, interaction with contestants. I want to be shocked and awed. Shatner's had some good training on this one. Lots of bling bling too, nice $2500 suit. Roll up in a Rolls. You have to show massively unaccountable power and wealth. Everyone must answer to you, you answer to no one. Just like being in the White House or Wall Street.

Answer 330

Hi, William!



Here's a brief, but adequate, 1-sentence answer: Imitate, as closely as possible, Regis Philbin's various behaviors on "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire".



By the way:



I point to him instead of Pat Sajak, Alex Trebek, or other famous hosts, because he was the first one I ever saw, in my 63 years, whose performance made me consciously think, "I really like his style on this show."



I suspect you have a head start toward becoming a successful host, because you already a substantial level of the skills and experience of good actors, including voice, body language, facial expressions, etc. etc.) At least SOME of Regis’ behaviors must have been accomplished only through his conscious acting-type efforts.



Who knows? You might even be much more than half as adept as he at making appropriately inoffensive ad libs for that type of show.



I have so much enjoyed your amusing, or comical, or "tongue-firmly-fixed-in cheek" behaviors in the national media over lo, these many years, that I would "TIVO" one (or more?) episodes of your show. Heaven forbid that I should ever become so attracted by even your obvious charms that I would make an effort to watch during a broadcast.



Best wishes. Carvel Thatcher



P.S. I wonder: How much older or younger are you than my 63 years?



e-mail to [e-mail], if desired

Answer 331

Well, Bill...I believe you will do just fine if you are yourself. You have already been successful at acting and singing, so being a boogieing game show host should be a piece of cake for you.



The specific ingredients, in my opinion, would be humor, some amount of intelligence, a dose of wit, an ability to easily chat it up with the contestants, and overall just an all-around sparkling personality!



Good luck and thanks for entertaining all through the years!

Answer 332

A. Most important- Humor.



Keep the show light and keep it funny. Great examples being Gene Rayburn and Richard Dawson.



B. Willingness to kiss any ugly babe that comes on the set.



You were the king of frenching any alien you could get your hands on & Richard Dawson was the master of frenching the hotties & turning the cheek on the not so hot.



You can do this. People will tune in for good humour and good frenching.

Answer 333

A William Shatner fan from way back. Quick wit and delivery but don't spend too much time talking about yourself. That was Danza's undoing. Hope to see you back in the spotlight real soon.

Answer 334

Intelligence and wit are important. You need to be able to interact with contestants without being condesending. Regis had this problem in my opinion. I think that, you, William Shatner has what it takes to be a wonderfully awesome game show host. I would definitely come be a contestant on your show!

Answer 335

The ingredients to a game show host are charisma, some humor and a definite crowd appeal. The crowd has to connect with you if not even the best writers cant save you. You also have to be quick witted to be able to answer peoples questions and have to be people friendly. These are some of the ingredients of of good game show host.

Answer 336

Bill, First of all best of luck with the new gig! I'm a long time fan.

ITS the chemistry between you and the contestants. Its the little chatting and joking around! Especially the joking around! You can't learn that, and some people just don't have "a personality" that easily expresses that. Just be personable, funny, if you poke fun at others - make sure to do it to yourself too! Audiences want you to be thier friend, buddy, someone that they could go to a bar with and have a good time.



Have FUN with it. Say - whatever happened to game with the giant pinball machine (just kidding). How about this - you have all sorts of trekkie characters walking around and helping you with props/ signs/ etc - How about that Gorn........

Drew

Answer 337

You will be the key ingredient. I'm am a long time fan and really think you are on top of your game with Denny Crane. That being said, you need to keep the gameshow about the contestants and the prizes, not so much about you, so for you the challenge will be to be entertaining while not disrupting the thread and flow of the show.

Answer 338

10. Bob Eubanks: hosted 10 different game shows, best known for The Newlywed Game

9. Monty Hall: One of the best game show/host fits was Monty Hall and Let's Make A Deal. Unlike a lot of former hosts, he could walk in and upstage anybody.

8. Alex Trebek: Hosted on Jeopardy for 22 straight seasons. Although he is rather serious, he fits Jeopardy just perfect.

7. Regis Philbin: Few can host both a successful talk show (Regis & Kathy Lee/Kelly) and a successful game show (Who Wants To Be A Millionaire) at the same time, but Regis definitely had the right stuff. Meredith isn't that bad on the syndie Millionaire, but even with her Daytime Emmy Regis has been better.

6. Gene Rayburn: Definite winner of a host on Match Game. I liked the way he described the losers' "booby prizes". I think even the losers who get them probably laughed.

5. Pat Sajak: A Wheel of Fortune mainstay for 23 seasons, and does not look a day older.

4. Bill Cullen: Original host of The Price Is Right, and later went on to host Blockbusters, a game to test whether two heads really are better than one. Overall, the solo players won that battle. In 1 1/2 years, Blockbusters had three career $100,000 winners: Pat & Liz McCarthy, Leland Yung & John Hatten.

3. Peter Tomarken: Hosted Hit Man, Press Your Luck, Wipeout, then Paranoia in 2000, which unfortunately failed quickly. Who better to say, "Stop at a Whammy." or deal with Michael Larson as he kept going for more and more money. Excitability is normally a bad thing in a host, but on Press Your Luck, it was exactly what the doctor ordered.

2. Chuck Woolery: All of his regular hosting projects were successful. I didn't care for Love Connection, but he did Wheel of Fortune, Scrabble, Love Connection, Greed, then Lingo. Greed lasted only 9 months, but it was killed because one executive at FOX hated game shows. Plug it into any other network and it would still be on the air. Definitely better than Millionaire.

1. Bob Barker: He may be old, but he still does a great job. He's had a longer game show career than any other host in history, getting his start on Truth or Consequences. He's had a lot of controversy lately, but it's something that goes with being high profile.



Honorable Mentions:

5. Ray Combs

4. Dick Clark

3. Wink Martindale

2. Todd Newton

1. Howie Mandel

Answer 339

I think you've gotten most of your answers, and you have the self depreciating, everyman, humor that will, and has, appealed to a great many.



In asking these questions however, it implies that you're considering being something other than what you are. Now, I don't know for sure your off camera personality, but what I can say is that you should stick with what you know and who you are. Anything else will come across as disingenuous.



Oh, and as a sidenote Bill, I recommend ninjas. You just can't go wrong.

Answer 340

As a currently unemployed actor, I would say, take it as another gig and just have fun with it. I mean, it's not Shakespeare. Just enjoy it and feel free to crack jokes. It's not as if you have to worry about getting another gig, and I don't mean that in a bad way. I have a question for you. I've been living in Europe for eleven years and have film and television credits. I still get requested by casting directors over there but don't have papers so I came back. Upon coming back to Southern California, I've been told that my credits don't count as they are outside LA. My question is this. Did you experience this when you came here from Canada? I know you did a lot of stage work back then and I think some radio plays as well. I appreciate your time and want you to know that I do like your work. Thanks.

Answer 341

you kidding me? nobody has to tell Shatner how to play an audience. He wrote the book. Boston Legal is the best show on TV and he is the key ingredient that makes the show a hit.

The real Shatner isnt polling yahoo message boards to learn how to do anything. He already knows. You people have been punk'd.

Answer 342

Dear Mr Shatner:



The qualities of a great game show host are, fortunately, the qualities that you exemplify day to day:



1) A passion for the game. Whatever project you've been involved in, from paint-ball battles to plane-flying gremlin battles, you've shown a real passion to succeed as well as you can.



2) A sincere concern for the contestants. In following your career for years, I have noted you've moved from a somewhat self-centered approach to life to a generous, caring, outgoing approach to people. Well done, sir!!



3) The ability to think quickly on your feet. 'Nuff said on that.



4) The realization that it's just a game, and it's fun just to play. If you can convey that to your contestants, then losing will almost be as good as winning.



5) The realization that life itself is a game, and we're all players in this thing together. In other words, Mr. Shatner, just be yourself. That should be enough to guarantee success in this and all other ventures. Best of luck to you, sir. You are indeed an inspiration to us all. >:-)

Answer 343

It is not about the host. It is about the contestant. We want to see the ordinary having an opportunity at the extraodinary. A great hosts role is one of a guide, to take the contestant through thier journey, and, at the same time, to bring us into that journey by interacting with the contestant for us, to cause us to have some emotional attachment or investment.

Just think about PLINKO, nothing neat there, but Bob makes us care.

If it is about tuning into see a host, it wont last. We can rent or watch movies to see a personality.

Answer 344

I liked Dawson ... he hit on all the ladies and made fun of the dumb, arrogant, socially retarded guests ... it's a game show the key word is "game" ... the shows that take that crap too seriously only get the audience that you see standing in line at the convenience store counter buying lottery tickets. No, don't work harder at work; no, don't go for little more education and advance yourself ... no, buy lottery tickets and sit at home thinking you could have beaten this guy on the game show because you knew the answer to a question, at the same time he did, a question that no one in they’re right mind should know, which really doesn't matter because ... you have the winning jackpot ticket anyway ;]

Answer 345

You just have to use different words every time you do the same thing. Don't say the same line in every show, even when the same thing will happen. Also, keep things a bit funny; but you are only there to ask questions. The contestants are th emost important part. Also, don't make fun of people or insult them or peoples' intelligence. The audience (both at home and in studio) dosen't like to be called stupid.

Answer 346

I great show host first of all, needs to not bore the living daylights out the tv viewer. Some show hosts are so boooooorrrriiiing!



He or she needs to be wittiy charming or delightfull, sound interesting and have a great smile...above all must looooooooove to interact with people and show respect for the participants and the publics sensibilities.



I know that everytime I watch Wheel of Fortune Pat Sajak is always making fun and using sarcastic putdowns and innuendos to the show's participants, he makes the participant either feel wierd, dumb stupid or ugly or not successfull enough.



I know this because I have watched the show for years on end and I have always thought that his antics are outrageous. Maybe he is told to do that to spice up the show, but, I think that is a very arbitrary way to do so. What do you think?

Answer 347

The key ingredients in my mind are a sense of humor, a good listener, ability to share experiences, laugh at yourself, and make interesting or blank stares when people say stupid things.



You would be a great talk show host but I think you have more talent than that. However if you are just taking a job with less stress and demands -- pick one that is interesting to you. Have fun!!!!!

Answer 348

First of all, I am honored to answer this question. I would say imitating someone else is a bad idea. Being original and coming up with your own way to get people to like you is key to attracting audience. People like someone who's fresh and who, in this case, puts a game show in a new perspective. Humor is part of being successful, and as many people before me mentioned, charisma will also cause people to love you. Of course, you already have all of those things, and I think you being the host of this show will turn out to be the best decision. I hope my advice helps and I hope to see the game show soon.

Answer 349

If you look at people who I think are successful game show hosts, Alex Trebek, Bob Barker and Pat Sajak, I believe its a matter of being themselves. While I like a whitty and intelligent host I don't want to see one larger than the game being played. A host is there to keep the flow of the game going, provide quick comic relief and disseminate information from the contestants (such as a quick who they are and thier interest).



I would of thought Bob Sagget was going to be an awful host for 1 vs 100 but he has relaxed and not made himself larger than the show. (No corny jokes..thank you Bob). That to me is the key. Keep the show light but dont overshadow the program.



I think Mr. Shatner will be a natural.

Answer 350

For a moment, forget that it's a game show. What does it take to be a great host? I know I enjoy the hosts that are honest with the audience. Those are the hosts that have fun, laugh and can roll with the punches.



Forget smarmy. If I'm already watching your show, you don't need to sell me on it. Smarmy tells me the host thinks very little of his audience's intelligence.



Get rid of phony. I can see through that in a second and will start switching channels immediately.



Don't pull an "Oprah". I don't need the host to pretend he loves me. I have enough people in my life that actually do love me. I'm here to watch a show, not boost my ego.



If you can connect with those people appearing on your show, you can connect with your audience. Then, if you can have fun with it, all the better.

Answer 351

Don't pander to the audience. Meaningless, G-rated banter makes shows so unwatchable. The hosts on America's funniest videos is a good example. Their scripts are so bad, it makes the show 1000 times less fun than it could be.



Have personality and character. (You already have plenty of this in real life, just let it through on the show) Think more Johnny Carson when bits went bad, and not so much Bob Saget on AFV.

Answer 352

Hey Bill,



Hey, It's me. You know...you and I have been friends a long time. (Laughing) I remember the time you told me that you'd be playing with a guy with pointed ears and how it was the strangest part you ever played and I told you that the show would be a hit after you replaced old "what's his name". Anyways, Bill....you know that you are the man. All you, Bill Shatner, have to do is be yourself. That's it! You know I'm telling you the truth. That's all Dawson did, so to speak! You have enough charisma for a million men. Bill, you know that. We've talked about it a thousand times together. (Remember that night with old "what's her name"?)



Hey buddy, I've told you before, and I'll tell you again...just be yourself, pal....just be yourself!



"Rube the Dude"



Note:I have never met William Shatner in my life. A portion of this is fiction, however the sentiments I share are true.

Answer 353

Hey, Mr. S.



I haven't even used this accessory, the 360 thing yet... But I saw this, and had to... First off, thanks for Many years of commanding the Enterprise, Among all the other things you've done. It's been fun!!

That said, A gameshow host? Humor, quick wit and likeability. Personally, I think you'll do great. As a fan, I wish you luck in this new venture. Either way, you have already contributed so much to the pop culture as it is. History will remember you. Thanks, Brian R.

Answer 354

With education of Americans on the decline, all you need do to be a good game show host is to “Appeal to the shiny object” tendency.

You do not need to elicit thought or reason most Americans have not had an original thought since the 1950’s.

Give them a cross between Judge Judy and Springer.

p.s. Change the color of the lights on occasion.

Pretend to care about what they say.

Answer 355

You also have to be quick witted to be able to answer peoples questions and have to be people friendly. These are some of the ingredients of of good game show host.

Answer 356

Zimbabwe is a nation in extreme crisis. Inflation sours between 400% and 700%. Roughly 1-2 million children are orphaned by the AIDS pandemic. Many roam the nation in search of food and shelter. Child abuse is rampant with sexual assaults on young girls and boys all too often becoming the norm. Life expectancy has dropped to less than 30 years.

Answer 357

You have to pick at the contestants a bit. Something like, "That's a big lump on your back, what are you growing a 3rd arm or something." or "WOW, you're as fat as a COW!!" that one was a combo. You want those. A combo is a combination of an insult and a rhyme. You should also try giving these contestants a high five, but at the last second move your hand out of the way and say "You're too slow you bastard."

Answer 358

According to mother (who just this morning informed me that William Shatner would be a game show host) a good game show host is one that has surprises for their audience and is funny.

Answer 359

The host brings people to the show. The acting skills, clean appearance and good speaking voice are there. The host need not only be famous for hosting (as some people who have specialized in hosting). Example, Ben Stein. When someone is up there having the time of their life and winning, it only makes it more dramatic to see someone famous which makes it worthwhile even if they lose.

Answer 360

Don't make any fast or wild hand jesters :) lol J/K. Like any good performer I suggest you watch some tape on the subject. maybe some old reruns of The Price Is Right or Match Game.



I'm unsure of the style of game show you are making but find a classic with the same kind of feel or layout and learn all you can from some of the previous masters.



Look for a new catch Fraze that may catch on I don't mean (Kahnnnn!) lol J/K again. From your performance in Boston Legal

I'm sure you will do fine at this after all you are a pardon the phrase but a old hand at preforming for live audiences.

Answer 361

A great personality is a must but you must also have a first-class game that the contestants participate in and some excellent prizes to bring the up the excitement. It never hurts to have an attractive young woman to hold the male audience to co-host and he should be a take-charge kind of guy that can think on his feet (i.e. know what to do if something happens that is unplanned for). Last of all you have to love your job and see it as going out to play instead of going to work. It will show in the performance.♪

Answer 362

A large built in fan base usually is the starting ingredient. Considering the block buster movies, TV, and along with name recognition is a winning combination. The best part is enough time has passed so most people do not remember the music LP that was marketed toward the original star trek fans. By the way, I am a fan... ;) Now if it was prime time......

Answer 363

The key ingrediant to being a game show host is having a microphone that is as thin as a pencil and as long as a giant pixie stick with a gobestopper sized mic on the top. You must also have a funny haircut, accompanied with a lavender business suit. If all this is followed you will be one fine game show host. Thank you for your time in this matter

Answer 364

Mr. Shatner,



It takes not only charisma and a great sense of humor, but you must be unique. Anyone can be Regis. Don't try to be like other hosts, be William Shatner, one of the most funniest and charismatic actors of all time.

Answer 365

I think the key is to be funny but not to push it. An example of a bad host or at least bad writing is when Bob Saget did "America's Funniest Home Videos". He's a funny guy, but they were stupid jokes and very corny. It's important to be on the spot when someone throws something at you. I don't know how the entertainment business is, but I think improv skills are a must.



I think you've got the charisma to be a game show host and I think you should be able to laugh at yourself and have a good time. It's easy to tell when someone is pushing to have a good time and when it's more natural.



Last, I think it's important to engage yourself with the contestant. It should be more about them and your relationship with them on the show. I find that the more you know about a person, the more or less you root for them to win.

Answer 366

Easy to Follow Recipe for Game Show Greatness:

Part 1: be unique, be different

Part 2: star in TV series called Star Trek

Part 3: have a co-star character named "Spock"

Part 4: promote www.priceline.com

Part 5: be like william shatner

Part 6: be so cool people pay for your waste

Part 7: make sure you're still considered cool

Part 8: launch career as game show host



Pour all the parts in a large bowl and mix vigorously until the phone rings, or simply produce the show yourself and be your own host!



Slice carefully and share with friends and family...

Answer 367

Don't be Dennis Miller. He tried to hard when he hosted Monday Night Football. Hosting is hosting, whether its Monday Night Football, Saturday Night Live or the Price is Right. Know your game, your contestants, and the audience. Do your research and be a professional. Your natural charm and ability to B.S. will take care of itself. You are an icon in American Television. Some of us hate you, some of us love you - but we are all entertained by you. Just be yourself and the show will be a hit.

Answer 368

William, just be yourself. Any of the great game show hosts succeeded by simply being who they are. That is what is endearing about the likes of Gene Rayburn, Richard Dawson, Regis, Barker, they all seem comfortable in their own skin and doing their own thing. Don't force it, just be Shatner!

Answer 369

The same type of self-effacing humor that you presented in "How William Shatner Changed the World" and on the award show when you did the "I can do Star Wars" bit were fantastic. . .don't try to be the whole show. . .



You come across very well. . .my favorite piece you've done is the "creature on the wing" Twilight Zone. . .

Answer 370

Besides the ability to laugh (you have that) and the ability to have fun (you have that too), a good game show host needs to be "real". Your audience will not bond to someone who is fake, 2 dimensional or pompous.



Bob Barker is a good example, but there are more. Everyone knew he cared about them and they cared about him enough to keep the show going a very long time.



There is so much greed and arrogance in the world today. A good show can have fun, give prizes and still be able to touch people on a human level.



Keep vulgarity and lewdness out of it and you will have an even bigger audience. None of that stuff is necessary to a great show.



Best of luck to you. I wish you well.



Debbie



PS. It was fun to see you at the Algonquin Play House in Maine in '72

Answer 371

Be a good *host*. In other words, the focus should be on the guests. It's not about the host. Nothing is worse than a host that tries to shine the spotlight on themselves...comes across as cheezy.



That being said, your personality will naturally come shining through, but the first step is to build credibility with your viewers (and guests) by focusing on the job at hand. If the show itself has good content and is engaging, then your personality will shape it into something special and lasting over time.



Good Luck!

Answer 372

To be a great game show host you must like chili dogs, chocolate cokes and greasy french fries. Hatred of the Kennedy family also counts for bonus points, and knowing the phrase "are ya gonna go fer it all?" will escalate you to the top in no time flat!

Not being able to laugh in the 250 lb. womans face cause' shes so pig-like is another plus, unless you're a chubby chaser, whereby a continuous woodie may, in fact, embarrass you.

Answer 373

Hi Bill--

People turn on for the game, not for the host so a Game show host is ONLY as good as the Game. Pick the right product to showcase your talents. Best game shows ALWAYS reward with big money & prizes. Helps if show requires a series of steps to increase your prize, with the possiblilty of losing all. And more importantly, questions should gradually become more difficult.

Be Yourself~~ Best game show hosts use their own personality & strengths. You are a natural & have proven you can succed at anything-- so be your off the wall, aggressive, chauvinistic self & we will enjoy watching you (as long as the game is worth watching)

BTW, BIG fan here~~ Boston Legal ROCK's!

Answer 374

I am a fan, and know you will be great. My advise would be not to interrupt your guests, and if you get into a spot wherer you don't know what to say, just look at the camera and open your eyes a little wider. It makes us all wonder what could possibly be going on in your mind. Most of the hosts do it, even back to Art Linkletter, and I think it's a great tool. This should be a great venue for you! The best of luck.

Answer 375

To: William Shatner

From: Roy W.

Just pretend you are interacting with the kind of people you find at a Star Trek Convention. Watch the old "You Bet Your Life" with Groucho Marx. Maybe Nimoy can stop by on occasion and take the role of George Fennerman (Groucho's announcer/sidekick) Better--invite the various "women" of Star Trek to be sidekicks--all the various women who are still the source of many a male fantasy.

Answer 376

Hi Bill and hope all is well. One has to be able to communicate well with the contestants. Be able to ask questions and add related drop in questions which has the contestant talk more about themselves, their likes and dislikes. This would contribute to the contestants extrovert type personality so that the audience may relate to the overall game direction (would contribute to the audience's guessing mentality). The audience becomes more interactive, and the game more passionate along with more excitement. Be ready and able to handle the smart mouth folks with decisive and positive feedback, not to take away from the game's momentum. May God further bless you and the Enterprise.

Answer 377

I think being yourself - you will be a great game-show host. That said - the key ingredients are:



1 Charm

2 Wit

3 Spontaneity

4 Recognizability

5 Uniqueness

6 Ability to keep the show rolling

7 Ability to both create and relieve tension in the participants

8 A good voice

9 Good looks

10 Ability to make inside jokes that only some would get and yet maintain and pique curiosity in those who didn't. - To this end I think it would be cool to have an inside reference in each show to some thing from any of your prior shows. Star trek would be the most obvious choice. - Live long and prosper.

Answer 378

The key ingredients are humor, fun, good bonding with contestants, making contestants feel good even if they fail the question. More things to do to be a good host is to know your audience, what type you are getting, the age group, etc. Also know your contestants before they are on the show. Know their likes and dislikes. Show them you know them, that you are like them. Also one should show that you are equal, and ask questions that are difficult but not to difficult and raise the difficulty from the beginning. Just act like a regualar man, with the audience and the contestants being your friends, while you are playing a simple trivia game. Just with attitude.

Answer 379

Don't! You're great on Boston Legal! You don't need to do a Game Show!?



Well, if I had to say what makes a great Game Show host.. Hmmm.



Well, Mr. Shatner, I would have to say timing. Knowing when to time your delivery. The ability to build suspense, and get that excitement going to keep people intertested. That right there makes for a great game show host and a great game show!

Answer 380

The ingredients for a good game show are... Beautiful women, good charisma, staying aware of current events, a good variety of gameshow options(questions, prizes, holiday specials, game show challenges etc..) Unique contestant personalities, properly placed seriousness AND humor, and lastly the occasional star trek quote. Good luck Mr. Shatner we'll all be watching.

Answer 381

I think you need to be quick on your feet; be able to to roll with anything that comes up. A sharp wit without putting people down in a mean way. The ability to laugh at yourself as well as a good sense of humour in general. Charisma is important too. (as others said)



I always appreciated a game show host that KNEW where places were that contestants were from. So many times someone was from "Saskatchewan" (or someplace like that) and the host had no idea how to pronounce it and didnt care to try. (Being a Canadian should help you with this one.) :)



Lastly, I think it was always good to make sure everyone felt like a winner; even when they didnt win at all. They had their 15 mins of fame and made it past the auditions...that has to count for something. :)



Good luck on your new show!

Answer 382

Being William Shatner. Simply a joke :-) I would say the key ingredients of being a great game show host is actually being able to enjoy the game and show that through your enthusiasm, diction, and facial/body language. A great game show host loves what he does and gives that love to an audience so they to can experience it. It helps to be really damn funny too!



That's about it and you have it all!

Jake D.

Answer 383

id watch a gameshow with Shatner as the host no matter what. todays gameshows are painfuly stupid in my opinion. even the ones where the contestants are pparantly smarter than me.... but the shows seem like they are for such a stupid audience. i think Shatner would bring a great sense of humor and intelligence that would make whatever show he hosted WAY better than who wants to be a millionare with that english ***** or randomly picking boxes with howey.

Answer 384

1. Act like you care about the contestants.

2. Allow the contestants to have their moment in the spotlight - this is their 15 minutes of fame.

3. Comiserate with the contestants - when they win or when they lose.

4. Use your pop-icon fame - but not too much - to let the audience know that you appreciate them - such as a reference maybe once a season to Star Trek, Boston Legal, TJ Hooker, or your other series that took place at the turn of the last century.

5. Let your audience know you are a person, not just an actor.

Answer 385

Don't PLAY a game show host... BE a game show host.



I have seen a few promos and it seems like Shatner (who I love and admire greatly) is trying to act whacky. Trust us Bill... You go in there and do a straight "William Shatner" impression and it will be plenty wacky for everyone.

Answer 386

You definitely need a torn v-neck shirt, preferably green with gold sleeve lacing. You also need a bloody lip and other facial bruises, of course. You should make your entrance onstage by rolling over the hood of a car, pointing a gun and yelling "FREEZE, DIRTBAG!".. Oh and you better make sure you constantly speak with extremely lengthy and exaggerated pregnant pauses to add dramatic emphasis to everything you say. If you do that it'd be an instant classic. What I've said might be considered mean-spirited and a joke if it were said to anyone else in the universe but I'm 100% serious (and you know it!).

Answer 387

There are several key ingredients required to make a great game show host!.First you must be very funny ...dynamic and handsome...have a good plot and great writers.When all of these elements are brought together in a perfect blend you get something pretty special..and you are William ..i love your work you were great on star trek your a great man..you will be great and if you ever need a side kick you can email me ill be glad to help..kind regards gordon

Answer 388

I've been a disc jockey and a game show host. Now I'm a writer (fiction novels/short stories). I'm 71 years old and been there, done that! The secret to being good at being a game show host is simply ... BE YOURSELF! HAVE FUN AT WHAT YOU'RE DOING! Don't try being something you're not, don't try "personas", don't try being the "typical show host" - they all don't work. Just be yourself and let it roll. Have a good time, that will show and others will have a good time too. If you're good you'll succeed, if you're not you won't. Tough but true. As for Shatner, he'll do great - he'll succeed. He has "presence", can be himself without doubting his ability and have fun at it.

Answer 389

The reason people watch the game show is to see the contestant, the average joe get a once in a life time chance to do something amazing. We relate to them, not to the host. don't try to outshine anyone. Be another american watching something great happening. Too many try to overpower the situation(weakest link) It's fun for a minute, but then it's over. let the contestants shine. Be there to facilitate their amazing night not star in your show. Thats the key.

Answer 390

I would say that the ingredients to a great game show host is:



3 cups charisma

4 cups charm,

2 cups humor

5 cups confidence

1 tablespoon of compassion

1/2 cup of the ability to laugh (at themself and with the contestants)



Mix all ingredients well, bake at 350 degrees for half hour or hour. Serves 6 million viewers.

Answer 391

Mr. Shatner,

In my humble opinion, it takes four main ingrediants to make a game show host great...

1. The show has to have public appeal and originality (in other words, it has to be something to draw an interest), otherwise the best game show host in the world could host it and no one would know it.

2. The host has to be personable. People like someone that they feel like they could be having a comfortable conversation with in their own front room... Franklin Delano Roosevelt proved this with his fireside chats in 1933-1944. People tuned in because they felt invited and welcome. More recently famous show hosts like Regis were able to rise and sustain celebrity as talk show hosts due to the same 'comfort level.'

3. Character. A good game show host has to have character. I don't just mean charisma, because even a person who lies for a living and couldn't care less about you personally can have charisma. What I mean is that they have to be someone that you would like to get to know. After all, you're inviting them into your house on a weekly/daily basis and introducing them to your family... In a strange "Hollywood" way, it's an intimate relationship that is formed between the actor and the audience.

4. A certain 'awe' would be helpful... I don't mean the "Awe, that is a cute baby" type of quality, but the kind of awe that Steve Irwin had about the natural world around him - The kind of awe that your character "James Kirk" had for the 'out there' we still know so little about - The kind of awe that one has for something that gives them excitement, stimulates their responses to try and get others excited about it, and sparks them to a youthful zealousness.



At any rate, that would be my humble opinion on the subject. In short, I believe that a person like you, Mr. Shatner, would make a great game show host, but I also think that relevating yourself to that title alone would be to limit your potential and abilities as an actor, writer, musician, director, producer, and the list goes on and on... Nothing against game show hosts, and I would certainly welcome you into my house and my family with whatever show you may do, but whatever you do know that you have made a difference in this world and that you continue to do so just by being you.

Answer 392

William Shatner I feel should just be himself! the rest will follow, he has the voice, the personality, and the star status of show business to be successful before the program begins. Of course it would never hurt having a side kick or a slamming theme song provided by myself. - (Leon "The Ladies Man" McKinnon JR)

Answer 393

I find a good sense of humor and lots of charisma make a good talk show host. Then again, it greatly depends on the game show, the kind of audience you're identifying with and whether it's a game, you as a host can get into yourself. If you know what kind of game show, you'd know the right ingredients and the right amounts. You can make a loaf of bread or a birthday cake. Crazy analogy, but I hope you get the idea.

Answer 394

You've got it already, Mr. Shatner. The key is not taking yourself too seriously. You're great at that! I wish you much success with the game show! When are you going to make another album? Has Been is one my most favorite albums ever. It's rare to get that much raw emotion and honesty in pop music. I'm dead serious.

Answer 395

Practice, practice, practice. Then just be yourself. ;-)

In my opinion, what makes the game show is the game. I think most people...at least those who I talk to anyway...watch the game show because they like the game's strategy and seeing how a variety of contestants react. Usually the host is seen as a familiar fixture, and secondary to the game...as long as they are likeable and interact well with the contestants. It's not like a talk show where people watch specifically because of the host. And of course, a lot of beautiful models never hurt anyone. LOL.



Congratulations on your new gig, Bill, and all the best to you!

Answer 396

Will, listen. You've got to have charisma, like some of the other answerers have previously stated. You've also got to have spunk and lots of energy. Since you're already famous, that shouldn't be much of a problem. Keep the audience focused on the game and get them laughing every so often. Throw in a few jokes or something like that. Keep up the good work.

Answer 397

It takes someone who can "roll with the punches" so to speak and ad-lib since the contestants don't always say what they are supposed to say.



It also takes someone who has a good sense of humor and isn't easily offended.



As a long time fan of Wm Shatner, I think he'll make a great gameshow host. He always does well at anything he chooses to do.

Answer 398

Show everyone the "real" Bill Shatner. A game show is different from a TV show or movie. You don't need to "play a part". Many folks have said, "Be yourself..." and I agree. You have such a great fan base, and many of don't know the real "you". Hosting a game show will certainly be entertaining to many and I'd enjoy watching no doubt! Best wishes to you Bill. Robert (long time ST fan).

Answer 399

William, I think charisma is a good starting point, you have proven to have plenty of that.

Humor is another important aspect. This includes being able to laugh at yourself, which you've never taken yourself too seriously, so I think you're good their too.



Having charm and personality and some quirks is important too. You've demonstrated that on other things you've done also.



Being famous and liked helps. I think you are well known and well liked, so you have no problems there either.



The one thing to keep in mind of course is when people see you they of course think of Star Trek and Captain Kirk. Being able to joke about that would be very helpful.



So that's what I think it takes, I think you've got it and you would make a great game show host. Just be yourself, remember the key ingredients listed above and you'll do great.

Answer 400

If this is the reral Wiliam Shatner, you need to have a good sense of humour and put yourself in the place of the contestants. Imagine what they are going through and help them over their 'stage nerves'.

You're a terrific actor, but as far as a game show host, take a clue from the likes of Pat Sajak and John Hurley or even the 'Deal or No Deal' host, Howie Mandel. They seem to able to build a rapport withthe contestants.

Most of all, enjoy yourself. If the contestants see you at ease and the fans see you at ease, the show will go much better.

Good luck.!

Answer 401

INGREDIENTS:

1. They have to be perky, but not so perky that they scare the people who are watching.

2. They have to know what game show they are on! (I once saw a gameshow where the host forgot what show they were on.)

3. Doesn't reiterate every five seconds what the game show is.

4. They show confidence.

5. Doesn't cuss, naughty game show hosts do this! o.o

6. Be glad you even have a paying job! Ta da! Good luck Shatner! I'll be watching :).

Answer 402

Mr. Shatner,

I think it all comes down to being yourself and having fun with what you do. People already love you the way you are and I don't think you have to worry about anything, as long as you keep it real. I actually have never watched that show before but I will definitely tune in to see that great smile of yours.



How about, you coming back after the first show to find out what viewers have to say about it?



I wish you success and best of luck, but most of all, I wish you fun and a good time.



Keep smiling,

Natalie

Answer 403

Most everyone that is answering makes a point of telling you what a good show host does. I think it would serve you well to consider what comprises a bad talk show host. Consider Gary Owens of The Gong Show. He only had one season on the gong show and for good reason, he was deadpan, and people were expecting hilarious, hence the reason Chuck Barris did so well.



Additionally, I recommend you view tapes of game shows that were popular and those that were not, many featured "assistants" or a "significant other(s)" (not a spouse), that added depth to the character of the show. As mentioned previously, Ed McMahon is a good example of this, as well as the lovely ladies that worked with Bob Barker. Vanna White is perhaps the best known working with Pat Sajak

of Wheel of Fortune.



If viewing tapes is not an option you can always refer to wikipedia (see links below) for a listing of almost every game show ever produced. Call and talk to as many current popular game show hosts as possible and ask them what they feel makes a great game show host and of course reflect on our submitted answers!



Consider also what audience you want to reach? Do you want the brainy crowd like Alex Trebek? Or do you want to have the funny side like Hollywood squares? Can your show have guest appearances from people you have worked with and can they interact with the game? Drew Carey has done very well with this forum.



Honestly You have one shot, the first airing, to make an impression on the viewing public. Make it count, make us laugh, give us some suspenseful gaming, and end it with something uniquely yours. Like a saying, or something you will do every show that makes it uniquely yours.



Good Luck!

Answer 404

I have a great idea for a sci-fi movie. If you are interested,you can contact me by clicking on my name.



As for your question,let me keep the answer simple as that is really the best for this question.



Good game hosts stay out of the way of the game. They do not monopolize the show.However, they do not just speak in a monotone and barely move either. You have to use a blend of personality and constraint.

Answer 405

A quick sense of comedic timing, and a good showing of enthusiasm at all times. Let's not forget, however, that you are William Shatner, an American Icon. You really don't need to answer or explain yourself to anybody. At least that's my opinion.

Answer 406

William Shatner is the most sexy, most charming, most inviting personality I can think of in his age group and with experience. All he has to do is relax and have fun! Not to many stupid jokes or comments. RELAX! He is sooooo gorgeous. Make sure you dress yourself or the costume artists will make you look like a cardboard cut-out from the 1950's. Suit up, Bill. Dress to impress and use every color you think you look good in. I will watch you every time.



Honey

Answer 407

Dear Mr Shatner- Being known is always an advantage. Having a good and easy going personality. Always try to get into your participants. They really want to talk about themselves too. Just be congenial and the rest will take care of itself.-Sincerely-Rex McNeese

Answer 408

Why are you even asking this question, oh Lord? You invented game shows. Your shat-tacular awesomeness alone will make your show the greatest of all time (yes, even greater than that other obscure show you were on a few years ago that was set in space: Boston Legal.)



But seriously, oh Great One, watch Bob Barker, Bob Eubanks and episodes from Richard Dawson's stint on Family Feud to see how it's done. Share jokes with the contestants and don't forget to add your own special Shatner flavor to it. For you, this should be no problem.



Most importantly, just be yourself. Be The Shat. Everybody loves The Shat.

Answer 409

William Shatner!

Answer 410

Bill,



I think the most important thing to do is be yourself. You have years of experience in entertaining audiences, whether on screen, tv, or live. You have a great personality and appear to be a humble person, at least from my perspective, so stick to the basics and you'll be fine. If your looking to do a new show, then surround yourself with great talent. Most of the writing today is stale and lacks any substance. You could always draw from the Star Trek archive of humor and relate to things in your past. These are things that audiences of all ages can relate to thanks to syndication.

I hope this helps in some small way.



Good luck

Mike Graham

Answer 411

I think Bill Shatner will be a wonderful host, provided he remains the person he is. He has a fantastic sense of humor and I believe people would connect with him on a very natural level.

Answer 412

if Shatner just goes out and is himself its going to be the most amazing game show ever. William Shatners persona is what legends are made of. Hilarity will insue at every turn as long as he acts like himself.

Answer 413

A truly great game show host needs to understand that, unlike in much of what they may have done, in this venture they must suppress their own personality somewhat and just keep the flow of the show moving. It is not the host, or even the contestants, but the GAME ITSELF which is the star. And if the home audience are spectators in your theater, as game show host you are neither actor nor director, but projectionist - keep everything in focus, and moving at the correct pace, and you'll do just fine.

Answer 414

A key ingredient in being a great game show host is to be truly entertaining. Depending on the person, a host must focus on their unique strengths which set them apart from others. Specifically, if an actor is to be a host, then he/she must stay true to what made them famous originally and use that knowledge on their show.

Answer 415

A great game show host must not have the personality traits of William Shatner -- egotistical, pompus, self-centered, and rude.

Answer 416

I think that the most successful game show hosts simply let people be themselves and guide the game.



Clever guidence and a few witty remarks and comments add to the mix, but the bottom line is, viewers like seing contestants do "dumb" or "silly" things as well as watch their successes.



We want to feel like a part of it and we want to relate to the contestant. We don't want to see the host manipulating the guests. We want to see the host enjoying the contestants while moving the game along but interfering.



Denny Crane!

Answer 417

The game show/host relationship is alot like a marriage. You can have a great show and a great host but if they don't click, the whole "marriage" fails. I'm certain you'd make a great host but you need to be picky as to exactly what game show to host in order to make it successful. IMO, your wit and great comedic timing would blend well in an activity based show modeled after many of the current Japaneese game shows.

Answer 418

Bill, just do us a favor and don't do this. You are what, 75 now? Retire. You're still active enough to really enjoy some "you" time. Spend it with your wife, ride your horses, think about writing another book. Go out with a little dignity. We don't need more game show hosts; we're rife with them, and most of them are bad. You have a good body of work from which to draw. Be proud of that. Even Promise margarine. Don't degrade yourself by doing a game show. The only thing worse would be to get your own talk show. Now those folks are just wh0re$.

Answer 419

Just be to the point, maybe quip a little bit with contestants but overall just be William Shatner cuz everyone loves Bill Shatner.

Answer 420

Be confident, charismatic, and funny. That's what will keep people watching. Also, be a little bit unpredictable. Keep the audience wondering what you're gonna do next.

Good luck with your new show Mr. Shatner. I'm a huge fan!

Answer 421

Firstly, you'll have to decide whether to spell your first name with one L or two. (Sorry, couldn't help but notice that your Yahoo Q&A name is spelled differently) It's probably not a good idea to follow Ray Combs' lead as it makes for a short career. All kidding aside, I think a combination of Gene Rayburn, Peter Tomarken, Richard Dawson and a little Ben Stein (but not too much) would make a good recipe for a game show host.

Answer 422

Hi Mr William Shatner:)

First of all, I dont think there is another more entertaining person than yourself for this job

Im not going to go into all the wonderful (SCI-FI) movies and series of the past, great entertainment. ;)

You have charisma, you have comedy, you have a great smile than even the most toffee nosed ladies cant dismiss LOL

and the fact that you work yer butt off to bring us this entertainment is to be commended:)

I dont think you lack courage, you are confident in front of the cameras. Yeah go for it!! You will do great!



PS We need you back on TV much more than you are :)



A Fan



Alan Minshull UK



Theres no way I am eating breakfast cereal though LOL

Answer 423

It's very simple.



1. Your look- You must be a good looking person. You must be appealing to an audience. America is very shallow.



2. Reputation/Past History- Nobody wants a washed up actor that's doing anything possible to have an income... ex. Bob Saget. (1 vs. 100) An Audience is looking for someone fresh. The hot NEW thing.



3.Personality- A host has to bring a unique personality to the table. Someone who make you laugh and feel comfortable. Ex- Richard Karn (Family Feud)



4. Clothing- Dress to impress

Answer 424

Mr. Shatner:



Are U kidding me dude! U already have all the qualities nessessary to be a great game show host! I'm a fan of yours from way back to the original Star Trek. You are excellent in Boston Legal and I have no doubt that as a game show host you will have no problem. Just be yourself and throw in as bit of livelyness, keep the show interesting!



Good Luck!



Tim D.

Answer 425

The biggest contribution I have seen of good/great hosts is

to take every situation, and see the most honestly, positive

side to it, and illuminate it. This way the audience is always

"up". It's relatively easy when a player makes a great play, calmly

but genuinely recognizing that. It's more difficult when a player

is dissappointed, or worse, embarrassed. It's worth preparing

some responses to those more difficult situations ahead of time.



The modifiers: "honest" and "genuine", above, are carefully chosen, and should not be trivialized.

Answer 426

Okay Mr. Shatner, I've been watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy since their inception. I can tell you what I like in those two hosts, and what I don't like. Sajak has a lot of odd character. He cracks me right up, either when he screws up a name and covers for it, or just gets goofy. Sajak has a good relationship with his contestants, like Bob Barker. It's a laid back atmosphere on WOF. However, sometimes he gets a little flighty. Trebek keeps a good sense of humor with him too, but he sometimes comes off as a little uptight.

I hope I helped even just a little bit, and good luck!

Answer 427

Key ingredients: A fun, energetic personality and ability to interact well with not only the game show contestants, but also the studio audience, and the home audience. Keep it interesting and fun, and they will keep tuning in! Good luck, Mr. Shatner, consider yourself hugged and kissed from Connecticut :D

Answer 428

Learn to make your contestants an integral part of the shows

personality. You should only be a guide.Don't play captian kirk except as a joke. Unless the show can connect to the viewing audiance it won't last. Also the show has to flow well, almost like a living enity.Make the audience laugh you're good at it.

Answer 429

To be a great Game show host one must first be understood by all audience members. This means all jokes and comments must be understood by the general public. Second, comments should be clean and should steer clear of perverse content. While making a perverse joke is quite easy it leads to cheap humor that is not wholesome for the majority of the audience members. If you can appeal to every age and still make a game-show entertaining and funny then in my opinion you will be the perfect game show host.

I greatly enjoy watching the old episodes of star trek but that is because that in that time period harsh language and perverted jokes were looked at as inappropriate. I hope you will take my advise and return to those days of yore.

Answer 430

You have to look good (especially good hair), and have women who look good. Also a great announcer helps out.Take a look at Bob Barker, the man is drop dead sexy and surrounded by women.



Has anybody ever watched Wheel of Fortune? Pat Sajak is one sexy cat with awesome hair, and look who he has turning the board Vanna White.He has Charlie O'Donnell voicing for him, and that's a voice everybody recognizes.



Sometimes you're character and personality are not what truly define you, but the people you choose to surround you. All in all the supporting cast can make or break a game show host.



I'm gonna miss you Bob Barker

Answer 431

That you be yourself. I loved Richard Dawson because he was himself. So, be like William Shatner and I think you'll be the greatest game show host the galaxy has ever seen.

Answer 432

Understanding the target audience of the show and trying to appeal to the majority. Bill, you have always been a great entertainer but here in later years have been perceived as being kinda kooky. That characteristic isn't too appealing to me, personally. You'll need:



Quick wit

Lose a little of the "stuffed shirt pompous attitude" you sometimes display

Try to be direct and sincere

Don't babble about BS important to you

Be considerate of that target ... who are you trying to appeal to?



You're a guy who's got the right stuff .... If the show can establish a tempo/rhythem and you can keep it moving/entertaining and remain agile on your feet with some wit and sincerity, you got a winner. I'll be happy to take a small royalty if it works for ya ...

Answer 433

Make the contestant(s) feel like they are the most important person in the known galaxy (sorry! couldn't resist, but it's true) Don't be one of those condescending, overbearing, 'look-at-me-I'm-the-star-here' hosts. Emulate the late great Johnny Carson & give the people their 15 minutes of fame. Be interested in who they are. There are enough egomaniacs out there tearing people down, grasp the chance to make someone feel special. And STAY IN CHARGE! If you can do that , you'll be a hit. You may be soooo tired of hearing this, but BE the captain! ( in charge, responsible, put others first) Good luck & I'll be glad to watch!

Answer 434

shatner is the biggest prick is showbiz, they play clips from him all the time on the stern show, and george tekai tells stories about him being the biggest *** in the world. The best one is a clip where shatner is being told to say a line a certain way and he responds "please dont tell me what to do, it sickens me when you do that" haha what a jerk. He should The key ingredients are everything he doesnt have.

Answer 435

Its all improvisation. Every show is different, every contestant is different. You must react in a way that maintains ratings. You have to play with your contestants to make them feel like a winner weather they actually do or not. The most successful game show hosts have great appeal to women: Richard Dawson, Bob Barker, Regis Philbin. These guys had women all over them in their time. You have to take in consideration that times are also changing, so trendiness is a must as well. Good Luck!!

Answer 436

Some of the best humor I've seen is completely unscripted; it's a little risky but effective if done well. What I find funniest about Mr. Shatner himself are his reactions, facial expressions and delivery of dialog to the conflict. Just watch any of the commercials he's been in the last few years and you'll understand.



EM

Answer 437

Humor Bill. Excuse me, Mr. Shatner. LOL! Just have fun with it. All the good games show were always fun in some way. Good luck. Live long and prosper.



Louis out.

Answer 438

Respect

Honesty

Generosity

Fun



Respect your crew. Stand up for them and make sure they are taken care of. A good attitude on the set comes through in the production. Remember how Howie Mandel made sure the girls were taken care of on "Deal or No Deal"?

Respect your contestants. They are nervous, scared, antsy, you name it. Be the Dad when you need to or be Capt Kirk or TJ or Denny Crane - but only once in a while. You are after all building something new. You don't really need to hearken back to the old too much.

Respect your audience. It isn't stupid.



Be honest with your people and audience. There's no need to fluff anything up. Be honest with yourself. Know what you need to do and learn what you don't know.



Be generous. Give credit where due. Accept credit humbly but not too humbly. Give out free goodies to the audience (publicity stills, fobs, whatever). SIgn autographs for a few minutes. Stop and say hello to people. Shake a few hands but don't forget to wash afterwards. You'll give people a thrill and they'll be more connected to your show.



Have fun. Lots of fun. Find ways to keep it fun. When it stops being fun then stop doing it. AARP members don't have too much time to waste.

Answer 439

Just be yourself. You know, William Shatner will be hosting something for the first time in 15 years and we all know that he hosted CBS's Rescue 911 back then; I remember that.

Answer 440

A great game show host needs a certain air of eccentricity. He needs to upstage the contestants frequently but not always. He should be laughing at them and with them at the same time. He should be excited about the prizes in an almost unbelievable manner.



He should appear to know all the answers and yet occasionally be surprised. He should be larger than life to the point that he clearly intimidates the contestants.



In short he should be you, Mr. Shatner. You who are immediately recognizable as an actor and comedian who has participated in both serious drama and biting satire. You who maintains an enormous fan base and yet pokes fun of it simultaneously. You who creates a show mocking an entire state yet finds their humanity. Without having seen a single episode, I am confident that you are already the most interesting game show host ever.

Answer 441

Some one who knows the topics and is smart enough not to show off.They need to be smart but not go one about how much more they know.But also not put them selves down in any way.If the host is a well known celebrity that really doesn't work well in my opinion they should be a new comer to TV.Not a celebrity of the past .(No offence meant to you Mr.Shatner).A good looking personable host is one we want someone we trust and admire at the same time.It all depends on the Game too.

Answer 442

Being natural, if you are not an all round nice guy, no amount of acting or pretending is going to keep people fooled for too long. You also need to be able to take the mickey out of your self. We have a bloke here in Australia called Bert Newton who has been on TV now for at least 40 years and has just managed to resurrect Family Feud for the 50th time, and make it his own, as if it were original, he is bald and wears a very bad wig which he constantly makes jokes about, he's had enough botox to start a factory, he cracks very bad gay jokes about himself (he's not) and people just love him.

Answer 443

Charm, realism and honesty with your viewers. You will go far if you stay true and are not a harsh, rude, luid behaviour. the viewers want someone they can relate to and is funny without being obnoxious. Have lots of humour and keep it light don't get cynical. Take some advice from your fellow Canadian Howie he is doing pretty darn good with his new gig.

all the best to you. Oh you might want to have a little tag like how Howie does the knuckle tap do to his OCD. You could say at the end of your show. instead of goodnight. "Beam me up Scottie"

Answer 444

Wiliam Shatner.

Answer 445

Someone with enthusiasm, makes the contestant feel right at home, friendly, knowledgeable about the game and MORE. The host has to be able to relate with the contestant with that persons conversation, and GO WITH IT. Make the game exciting and worth watching. Many years of experience during other great TV and movies doesn't hurt either.

Answer 446

Be funny... give the audience a good laugh. Hug and kiss the contestants to make them feel great even if they had a bad day. Dance! Everyone loves to dance! And even get some members from the audience to help out a person who has gotten themselves stuck on something. You just have to be creative and have fun all at the same time... If you got this... you will do awesome! Good luck and much success.

Answer 447

finding a different personality.... we're talking about william shatner here.. what he can't get a job doing commercials, now some genuis in the entertainment world said hmm.. who in the heck can we get to do this game show.. hmm.. ding ding ding.. that was the bong dropping off the desk. William Shatner came to his mind.. damn that's some pretty good stuff crammed in that bong.. spread that crap across Washington D.C and maybe we can get some real stuff done in this country. .

Answer 448

This is a question that has been pondered by Philosophers through the ages. And the only answer is to arrive every night on a horse, dismount (kiss all the women, ala Richard Dawson) Do a Shakespearian sonnet, choose an audience member to one on one basketball and then let the games begin..

Answer 449

If you were to host a game show, Mr. Shatner, I would watch it if and only if you did it in drag.



There is a striking absense of female game show hosts in today's world, and also an absence of entertainment. Aren't game shows insipid? The only way to succeed is to build on attributes that have already been established, so why not make it truly insipid by putting on a wig and some lipstick?

Answer 450

Bill, you've SO got it goin' on for a game show!



Seriously, though, I've watched you for nearly all your career, and I have to say I've enjoyed your visits to Fox and Friends the most. You seem to be really comfortable with those particular hosts and your twisted sense of humor really finds an outlet there. It's evident you don't take yourself too seriously, and that makes you seem very real and approachable. That reality is what will play well as a game show host.



As others have said, of course, be interested in the contestants, think on your feet, watch out for large Samoan women, and have a blast.



I look forward to watching and I hope this turns out to be a very successful venture for you!

Answer 451

A great game show host makes the contestants look like the stars of the show. Tell them you want them to win. Smile a lot. Act like you are having the time of your life. Be sure to let the TV audience in on everything. Enthusiasm is contagious! Now, go get 'em!

Answer 452

Know the rules of the game backwards and forwards and inside out. Even Bob Barker recently said this was key. Once you are 100% confident with how the game works you can be free to focus on a lively and entertainign exchange with the players.

Answer 453

Dear Mr. Shatner,



You have what it takes: a sense of humor about yourself. You also have always been interested in people. Put them first, above yourself and you can go far. That is the key to it all, making people feel special. Groucho had it, Richard Dawson had it, you have it too. Keep that slightly naughty but not over the top grin and make the contestants and the audience feel that they are all part of the in crowd, in with your joke.



Best of luck.

Answer 454

Dignified - Despite scandals a good game show host seems trustworthy

Personable - Viewers should feel they connect

Mildly Humorous - Comedians don't last

Charismatic - Gather a following quickly

Pleasant Voice - Not too fast and not too slow

Sincerity - They must truly be interested in the contestants' future

Answer 455

Aside from charisma, personality and confidence a great game show host must be able to direct the communication and rapport with and between the contestants. He should serve as facilitator and ambassador. It helps that Mr. Shatner has a quick wit and quirky way about him. Count me as a viewer!

Answer 456

== TO ALL: ==

Jay here!!



I think I know what goes into a great game show... I, myself, am a game show fan for years; even dreamt about announcing for some, too ("Price", "Wheel", and maybe "Card Sharks" to name a few).



So what is key in game shows? You have to, of course, watch every day so you can get a jist of the rules and whatnot; bonus rounds too.



"Family Feud" -- if you're writing for this game, find survey questions with some sense!! Think really hard... LOL!! Some are OK... some need lots of work.



You have to know what questions to ask in a certain category; like if you were on "Jeopardy", "Joker's Wild" or "Tic Tac Dough"... like that.



Oh... THESE are very important... DIG:



ONE:

If you are on a game-show that requires hitting the buzzer for a reply... try to listen to the full question, 'cuz once you hit it too soon, you'll wish you hadn't -- BZZZT!!



TWO:

If you're hosting or annoucing a game show, try not to do it like the host or voice before you. Try being yourself, so those watching will know who's who. Who knows? You might be better than they are, without even knowing! ;)



Eye candy? Heeeeyyyy... never hurt at all... right? Look at "Price", Vanna... even "Deal or No Deal"... they all kill it (read: "rock it big time") with that AND MORE!!



OK, hope that helps... have a good one!!



~JK~ http://www.myspace.com/JKFX4LIFE

Answer 457

Hi Mr. Shatner, aka The Shat...I am a huge fan of yours...and I have enjoyed watching you progress and transform yourself into all that you have become...to answer your question, I would say the key ingredients are...charm, wit and quick reaction/improv..all for which you posess. You are loved by many, and the others who are not familiar with your wit and charm will become familiar and will be entranced...

I wish you all the best --Kecia :)

Answer 458

Should have just faded out after star trek. You were good at that but now you should just sit back and retire. You are not a game show host and I would never watch a show that you were the host of. You try to be funny which you are not! Take a hint and go away.

Answer 459

A great game show host needs to be funny but never at the expense of the players. You can tease gently, but don't ever be mean. (I've noticed that you are very funny in the commercials and TV shows I've seen you do lately. You're fun to watch).



You need to be personable, witty and show genuine regard for the players. Be glad when they win, be consoling when they lose.



I think this is something you could do quite well at. Good luck!!!

Answer 460

Happy shiny personality. Never look like you are perturbed by anyone even if they say something dumb or off the wall. Always look as if you are having a wonderful time, and everyone else will, too. You are the host, you set the tone for the whole show. Smile when you speak, and gentleness will come out of your voice. You are to be gentle, many people have never been in front of a camera, so you have to put them at ease, and in a wonderful way, bring out the best of them. Always love your guests in your heart and wish the best for them. And you will do well. The public has loved and cherished their gentle yet happy hosts. That is where the longevity comes in. I am thinking now of Bob Barker. His personality is so much towards his guest. Very rarely do you see Bob doing anything for his own benefit on screen, it is always to bring attention to the game or the guest, and encourage them. Watch a few of those episodes, and you will see how much Bob encourages his people to do well.



I really think you can do this. Go for it my dear.

Answer 461

Being a game show host is like being the life of the party....When I was younger I used to live in a small Italian town. Like everywhere else in Italy the big showdown begins at 6pm, in the historic center, where everyone gets a chance to look and be looked at. Just like being a show host. One either has it or not.



The most popular people were always at the centre of attention. Being popular they had to be mixing with everyone with a beaming smile and a personal look for each of the ladies (or men) present. Always be well informed and with an intelligent opinion on things which they reluctantly allow others to hear, after they have listened to everyone else's with interest. Like a butterfly, with beautiful colours and millions of flowers to tend to, they do not linger long anywhere or on any topic and they do not make a secret of their inner lust by the power of their beaming smiles and glances..........



You are perfect!

Answer 462

The whole trick is to get the audience and contestants to feel comfortable with you, and not allow conceit and ones own status to overpower them! As the host you face the initial stardom achieved in the title alone... The trick is to let the contestants be the star, while remaining in charge! As you've already know. success comes from your public... Even bad publicity gains acknowledgement... plus having a less than perfect co-host with wit, character, poise and the capability of complimenting your abilities! P.S. Available to start immediately! Cheers!

Answer 463

Always appear as if you're a little boozed up. That way you can ask the embarrassing questions with a wink. Your people can always say, "sorry, he drinks a little." Also make sure you kiss all guests, male or female. Especially long and inappropriate kisses for the females. Again, "sorry, he drinks on occasion." Every so often do a skit that requires you to come onstage in your underpants or skits that require you to dress like a Vegas hooker. Good luck, knock yourself out kiddo!

Answer 464

1. Age

2. Personality

3. Congeniality

4. Humor and Wit



1. Consider, if you would, that some of the best hosts have age on their side ... Bob Barker, Alex Trebeck, Pat Sajak, Howie Mandell, Wink Martindale, Bob Eubanks ... and I am not talking about youthfulness. From age, the great game show hosts have garnered experience and wisdom. Also poise and confidence. They know their way around the game studio. They have had ups and downs and can relate better to contestants. What has Bill Shatner got to lose? Absolutely nothing!!! Just think, he has traveled through the enterprise, chased criminals, sung commercials for travel services, and been a partner in a law office. He knows how to ride horses. And has commandered the Starship Enterprise and been a mentor to Sammy Jo. He has a wealth of experiences to share with contestants.



2. Personality. Denny Crane. With Mad Cow Disease. He's at the top of his game with more than enough personality to go around as a game show host. He's been working his whole life just getting ready for this gig!!



3. Congeniality. Someone who seems perfectly at ease with persons, beings and things from outer space as well as thugs, thieves, murderers, carjackers and other degenerates, to the occasional socialite, white collar crime-doers, judges, lawyers (bottom dwellers), James Spader, Murphy Brown and Betty White can move to the top of his game as a game show host. Friend to butchers, bakers and candle-stick makers, judges, juries, colleagues and the occasion honcho or pillars of business affairs (and we also mean affair participants) can lead our show any day of the week. He will always keep the conversation lively as he moves contestants through his game.



4. Humor and Wit. Denny Crane. Mad Cow Disease. Fishing. Drinking and smoking cigars. Keeping up his end of the conversation with other characters he has known and worked with. He is without a doubt one of the humorous men on the face of the earth. Not stand-up funny (like Steven Wright or Richard Lewis). Just like himself. His wonderful smile. The chuckle that moves into pearls of laughter. His kindness and sensitivity. His interest in those around him. His mischieveous smile and smirk. The twinkle in his eyes. The swaying movement of his body.



Is it Mad Cow Disease? I don't think so. It's the combined sum of the persona known as Bill Shatner. Who could well become the best game show host on the face of the earth. 'Cuz baby, he's got what it takes!!!



[e-mail]

Answer 465

A slender fit appearance.

A man that doesn't come on to the female contestants like some demented Letch.

A personality that can handle any unrehearsed occurrence with dignity, grace and a sense of humor.

He especially must have a sense of humor with no uncalled for,tasteless, dirty remarks. Light double entendres are cute and acceptable, however, if not carried to extremes.

He must give recognition and credit to other personalities in the game.

Lastly if the game itself is boring or stupid, no amount of personality and charm will help.

Answer 466

William, be yourself. Many have come to know and love your sense of humor, your ability to poke fun at yourself, and your completely original take on just what celebrity is all about. Above that, hosts that can channel a bit of cheerleader, a bit of Art Linkletter and a good dose of Groucho Marx certainly could make a show full of zest. Good Luck.

Answer 467

I think the big difference between a good game show host and a great one is that the great ones know that the show isn't all about them. They are more like a facilitator of fun, or a catalyst to the characters that are brought on the show. With different guests every day, there's infinite posibilities and with a talented host, an infinite number of people to laugh at.

Answer 468

Make your guests feel relaxed and welcome. Nobody likes to watch an uptight contestant. In Bill Shatner's case, I think he should start off every show by singing some 60's or 70's tune so that the contestants realize that they can't make bigger fools of themselves than what Shatner has already done. For sweeps, he should wear his old gold-colored Captain's shirt and black pants with boots - Start Trek style, and have the contestants: male in a blue science officer outfit, and female in a red miniskirt outfit. Make it fun. Make us laugh, and we'll watch every week!

Answer 469

I think the best game show host out there is Howie Mandell on Deal or No Deal.



I think recency is important as well as charisma and personality.



Forced jokes like the guy on 1 vs. 100 are very boring and a turn off.



Howie makes it look like he really cares if the person wins or not.

Answer 470

Not being William Shatner.

Answer 471

Mr. Shatner ~



I believe you already have what it takes. Charm, personality and charisma. I think one must be able to laugh at themselves as well as be able to turn a potentially bad situation into a good situation. Quick wit and some good jokes will also go a long way. Doesn't hurt that most of America loves 'Captain Kirk'!!!!!

Answer 472

Be charming, polite, gracious, and take a real interest in the contestants. Most people are smart enough to realize when you like them (versus just tolerating them). The contestants are what the show is really about--not the host. People love Pat Sajak and Alex Trebek because they have these qualities.

Perhaps you could speak to them personally and ask them what they do to stay on top of their game.

Congratulations on your new show!

Answer 473

Rule One: The dumber the show, the more flamboyant and exciting the host has to be e.g. The Gong Show. There are exceptions, e.g. Wheel of Fortune. The converse is also true, e.g. Jeopardy.

Rule Two: If it's a fun and exciting show and you have an over the top host, that's even better and it trumps Rule One.

Answer 474

Just a personal bit of opinion here. There are two ways to go, one the most often used is to make your audiance, and contestants trust and believe in you through wit...Quick wit. The second way is risky but can run you up the charts if done with conviction. Seperate yourself from contestants as well as audiance, be unpredictable and and just be human but allow indifference..You do not need to feel bad for people that muff and fail but rather chalk it up to "Hey somebodies got to lose...this time it was you" Being blunt will sometimes make the crowd draw and watch because it is 1. Honest, 2. Exciting and 3. Entertaining and a pleasure to see in this time of of falsity and unreality reality shows.



Either way good luck and I would love to see the second way I spoke of much like you treated Brad in the Celebrity video. That was good and would be great.

Answer 475

Mr. Shatner,



Everyone else can tell you what the key ingredients are, but its ALL YOU BABY! This will be a great gig; Cute girls hugging and kissing you, lots of jumping up and down and screaming. Just be yourself, have fun and ham it up a little bit. You'll be great at it.

Answer 476

Lord, all William Shatner has to do is BE HIMSELF. He's got a wacky sense of humor, vivacious personality, twisted sense of fun, and teddy bear emotionality (and dig that great voice!) He'll be considered campy by some, lovable by others, a train wreck by some (but they won't be able to look away), and sheer performance art by yet others; in short, great cross-appeal!

Answer 477

I think so many people here have made a very important observation...you have to be able to laugh at yourself as well as the funny moments that transpire, but you also have to take an avid interest into drawing the contestants into the game.....the best game shows are the ones where people at home can watch and say, "I'd love to be on that show." It has to be about the contestants.

Answer 478

A host needs to suck in the peoples attention and keep there suspence going, and there has to be the humor thing going!!!!

William Shatner Maybe you should go were only one man has gone before I here there is an opening on " THE PRICE IS RIGHT"

Answer 479

Make them laugh make them laugh make them laugh.Lots of energy. What makes a great host is that they ARE actually funny and lets face it William Shatner is funny. That is the key ingredient. Plus show girls that are sexy helps too. Plus do not forget lights sound big intro's famous people that have a cameo and lights lots of sparkling lights. Plus you need music big loud outrageous music. Your show has to be slotted when nothing else is going on. Thursday's have a great line up right now or maybe Wednesday. Tuesday is also great either 8pm or 10pm those are the prime spots. Friday Saturday Sunday are not great unless you are bumping someone out and moving them. Otherwise I would not even touch it with a 10 foot pole. But hey what do I know.

Answer 480

The key ingredients that I would expect would be:



1) Not taking yourself seriously, and the ability to laugh at situations/self without offending the contestants.



2) Compassionate attitude towards the "also-ran's".



3) Enthusiasm for the game - even Alex Trebek seems "excited" by Jeopardy.



4) The ability to pronounce difficult words correctly and seemingly "effortlessly".



Good luck, Mr. Shatner.

Answer 481

I know it's tempting Bill.... but walk away from the Cheese!!!! Cheesiness is out, natural enthusiasm and empathy is in! You have to be able to roll with the punches, have a sense of humor about yourself, and sometimes, the best host just stands back and lets the player be ridiculous... without interupting (Think Price is Right). Also.. avoid the sexist stuff.... if you have a lovely co-host or models.... treat them with respect!

Answer 482

Well of course, you have to be congenial, gregarious, hilarious, smart,witty, attractive(to appeal to the audiance), and you need to know your game.

Which Will has(not 100% sure about the gaming part), the man is very very funny, and I think that really helps a gameshow, otherwise they are to dry and noone will want to watch. And if you dont belive me about ol' Will watch some of his movies after Star Trek or the recent History channel special "How William Shatner changed the World". Very funny stuff. Hats off to you Will!!

Answer 483

My girlfreind says bob barker is the best ever game show host, here are her reasons:



Old which makes him cute.

Even though he's old he acts youthful, and in good shape.

He's positive, nice, energetic.

Perfect voice, calming and rolls nicely.

He's intelligent.

His mental health seems to be good for his age.

Everyday he exudes the same positive energy, as he always has.

Hurrys the contestents up when they are taking too much time, but acts generally pleasent while doing it.

Good timing. Builds anticipation.

My girlfreind is 18 and lives in canada, watches price is right daily.



-billy

Answer 484

Be relaxed and confident. Throw in some humor now and then, but remember it's not about you! It's all about the idea of how anyone could be up on the stage competing for a prize. Think Bob Barker. He's pleasant, informative and shows a humorous side from time to time.

Answer 485

They must be lively, witty, funny, and able to brighten up the normal people that come on the air. Should be able to ab lib when is necessary and connect with the audience both for the TV viewers and the live watchers, Mr Shatner can do this.....Richard Dawson style.......thanks

Answer 486

Be as courteous as possible and try not to offend the audience and others, no matter how unintentional



Trust your natural wit, do not over prepare or that side of you will not come to the forefront



Drink less than you might like to before the show- just enough to loosen up while still maintaining your acuity



Be flexible go where there is opportunities for laughter & other positive responses



Do not be bothered by the prompts and other distractions that can hurt your focus

Answer 487

FUNNY FUNNY FUNNY! That's it. We watch a show for emotion release. That's what keeps us come back to that show. William Shatner is so funny on Boston Legal I never miss that show. I plan my husbands and my life around it. We laugh even after the show goes off. We talk about it and hash it all out after its over. That is what makes a great show. So Laughter is the key. You could not had picked a better host.

PS. don't forget Sunday dinner son.

Answer 488

Primarily 3 things that come through I'd say...and I've watched a ton of game shows...I just enjoy them...I'm also a people watcher in general...so I'd say I'm a fairly good resource for this question. The main 3 things then would be:

1. Good sense of humor, fun, party atmosphere.

2. Be real...be yourself...not a car salesman...if you're fake, alot of people can see right through you.

3. Enjoy what you're doing, hopefully...generally shows as well.



If you look at Pat Sajak, Bob Barker, also Gene Rayburn of Match game, and Richard Dawson of Family Feud...sure enough, they all fit this criteria to various degrees.

Answer 489

Well that's an easy one! Just be you! They couldn't have picked a better host! For one, the fact that I'm even responding to this say's a lot and second, I would'nt normally choose to watch a game show, but , whatever show you are in, I'm watching! I didn't know about this side of you until you started doing those commercials for travel something? Sorry, I cant believe I'm drawing a blank on it! That's gonna drive me crazy! Anyways, I get a kick out of ya! YOU NEED TO BE ON THE NEXT DANCING WITH THE STARS!!!!!! PLEASE PLEASE TRY! THAT WOULD BE SO AWESOME! Well have a great show and take care! Jackie

Answer 490

It's obvious you have a head start on anyone !

Not only have you met just about every kind of person,that can be

imagined on earth,you've no doubt encountered strange beings

from all four corners of the universe as well !

Just combine your encounters,with the on screen personality you

already possess,and it instantly becomes: The star of"Who's

YOUR DADDY ", WILLIAM SHATNER !

Answer 491

Tim's top five ingredients for a game show host!

# 1 - A good/entertaining game show.

# 2 - Do you fit with the game show. ie. shatner and wet t-shirt jeopordy, BINGO!

# 3 - A good network!

# 4 - A good time slot

# 5 - A good/entertaining game show.

Answer 492

A great game show host needs charisma, a sense of humor (self-deprecating works...you can't take yourself too seriously, you're hosting a game show), and you have to appear to care about the contestants. Be enthusiastic when they succeed and supportive when they don't.



Always keep in mind that the show is about the contestants and the game, not so much the host.

Answer 493

Best gameshow host qualities? Humor, a quick wit, and a certain something that enables the audience to love and connect with the host in an endearing way. Basically, just be yourself. You have all these qualities already. Actually, I have always thought you would make a great gameshow host :)

Answer 494

Bill;

I'm so glad you're again, trying something new. Here's my advice on what ingredients make a great game show host.

Flirtatious, witty, sarcastic, charming, endearing, in command with a gentle hand. Have the ability to relate to a wide range of people on the spot, and eye to eye and on their side. Come across without a facade. What you see is what you get. Like a cross of James Kirk and Denny Craig by way of Candice Bergin.

Good Luck Old Man!

Answer 495

I believe what makes a game show host great is the ability to interact with the show guests and extract from them moments worth viewing. If the guests are supplied from a wide demographic this should be relatively easy with a smart, witty character like yourself. Never be condescending but always sincerely interested in the guest you are hosting.



Best regards,



Jeffrey

Answer 496

No theatrics. Just be yourself and entertain the contestants. The audience will enjoy the show more if the contestants are comfortable and having fun. A sense of humor is a big plus. Formal attire really brings down the mood. Dress fun and lively!

Answer 497

Every great host owes their success to being able to fit in with the everyday contestant, and thus relate to the viewrs at home. Use these to get ahead:



Aloofness-- You must pretend obliviousness to the right answer and act dumbfounded as the losing contestant.



Wit-- Wrong answer! Don't ridicule, but joke away the contestant's misery. Ease their anxiety being in front of millions with some ice-breakin' one-liners.



Authority-- You're the host, you are in control. Stay calm and direct and things won't spin out of control. Also, watch where you point that microphone!

Answer 498

You have to be charming and have a great sense of humor. But you can't cross the line into being corny and it seems like a lot of hosts (for example: Bob Saggat) get roped into being a fake corny loser that can only get can laughter. And what really sucks about it is that these hosts are normally funny and don't need that cornball routine that keeps people like me from even watching those shows. So watch out for terrible joke writers! They can kill your career and your fan base!

Answer 499

The key ingredients to a great game show host are: great personality, good sense of homour, intelligence without ego, someone who is well known & respected in the entertainment industry. That's what I look for in a game show host. I think Mr. Shatner would be a great one! He has it all & more

Answer 500

Good Afternoon Mr. Shatner,



First be yourself. Second be yourself. You are a funny guy (I think so anyways). I don't watch much TV but I'll be sure to catch you on your new adventure. The overacting thing will most likely be the best way to approach it, everyone is expecting it as well and it works for you very well. Damn it Jim I'm an auto mechanic not a TV critic. Funny joke... Ha Ha, yeah no one laughed here either.



Have fun and Good luck

Needforspeed1963

Answer 501

Charm, looks and intelligence should all be there, to be sure, but the most important thing a game show host should remember is to not condescend*. I personally believe Mr. Shatner would be an excellent host.

Answer 502

1. You must believe in the gameshow (great hosts come from great game shows) 2. Be yourself and have fun (if your getting bored from repetition than your audience will too). 3. Keep things interesting (but don't rewrite the show or make hard to sell tricks, i.e. Deal or No Deals "Big Switch" this week, which is a desperate and sad ploy.Good luck!

Answer 503

Keep it adult. I hate to watch these shows that are so stupid it insults me. Shatner is a riot...let him do his thing and the show should be great! By the way, Bill, do you still have cousins in a small New York town called Olmstedville?

Answer 504

Each individual has his or her own way of becoming great. You have many people giving you advices, I guarantee you that some of them will not work for you. You have to find your own way. You didn't get this job for being just like Jimmy Carter, you got this job for being you. Why be the next Jimmy Carter, when you can be a class of your own! Between you and me (and the million of million of yahoo users), the main ingredient to a great game show host is THE AUDIENCE. Try to involve them in a conversation. From time to time, tell your camera men to shoot the people setting in the audience. Believe it or not, most people love to watch themselves on TV. They will call up their friends and family and telling them, "Guess what, I'm on TV. Be sure to watch it." Something like that. To be honest, I think you already know that. Maybe you just want to see how many people interested in the show. Best of luck to you.

Answer 505

Bill Shatner is already good at charisma and laughing at himself, and he has a great voice. He just need to move his pace up a notch, put a little more speed and energy into the delivery rather than relaxing and shmoozing.

Answer 506

Be ready to laugh at yourself. Remember that Murphy is always in charge. Be sure the floor is dry. Stupid can strike without warning. Words with a "K" sound are funny. Words with a "P" sound make people blink. You've already probably had most of the things that make you wonder why you got into show business happen already. Since you're still here, relax and enjoy the gig!

Answer 507

Notoriety, of course doesn't hurt and you have plenty. I have watched you mature from the original show to the movies loving every bit of "Kirk".



Than something strange happened, you began to do some really strange characters and you seemed to digress. I have to say if you continue to act like this "off the wall" person, I don't think that the show will last. You are a strong lovable person, just be yourself, if you remember who that is. That is the main thing that the "greats" have done!

Answer 508

Humor, respect for the contestants and confidence. Laugh at yourself but don't make yourself look foolish. Don't do a joke if its not in integrity for you or the contestant. Your awsome as the Crane man, and you will rock at this if its done right.

Started off as Capt Kirk, now game show host. Cool.

Your the greatest and fingers are crossed that this goes good.

Answer 509

First of all, you're one of my favorite actors/celebrities.



I think the ability to really connect with your audience is important. If you dont respect your audience, they wont respect you. I think as the game show host, you have to take the side of the contestant. Meaning you need to be the liason between the show and them, but more on them. That's the strategy that I think works - look at Wheel of Forture and Deal or No Deal. Those shows are successful because the host is 'working' for the contestant. They want someone to be on their side. Their representative. And frankly, you have that characteristic.

Answer 510

well I think you need to look at some of the older long standing game host like Chuck Woolery and Richard Dawson and think of what both gave to their participants even what Bob Barker still gives is that sense that you believe that they will do well that no matter what the game is this participant like others will win the prize. That includes making yourself seem like you are happy to meet each and every contestant that walks on stage. That makes people want to become contestants and other people watch.

Answer 511

It takes someone with a brain, a heart, and above all courage. Those ingredients coincidentally describe William Shatner, an icon and actor, respected and beloved by his audience wherever he goes.

Answer 512

I think that a good game show host needs to have a great sense of humor! Be the "straight man" sometimes to the players often comical questions/answers and be ready with witty repartee! Also, be genuine and just be yourself. The players may be too excited to notice....but the viewers at home will pick up on it immediately! Since you already are charming and handsome, let your personality do the rest for you! Good Luck in your new venture...I'll be watching! Oh, yea..."live long and prosper...

sorry, couldn't help it...

Answer 513

For you, Mr. Shatner?...just be yourself.



You already have an aura about you that can't be learned. People like you because you are funny, spontaneous, down to earth...and more than willing to laugh at yourself...which puts people in an automatic comfort zone.



You have a mischevious, little boy look in your eye...that also can't be learned. You've already got the key ingredients! You don't need props or lines...as long as you know the game you're hosting....that's all you need to learn. You're people skills have already been honed. Ad lib....people like sponteneity...a host caught a little off guard....is funny....not too smooth....and able to laugh at the stupid, simple things in life...that's what we want!...



A real fan,

Terri Smetana

Answer 514

The host should allow the contestants to furnish the entertainment. In other words, viewers don't want the host to monopolize the show.

Mr. Shatner, the style you learned (and portray) sometimes simply tires me out. Suggest you try to be more relaxed and less insecure-appearing.

Answer 515

A quick wit, great rapport with people, don't take yourself too seriously, and respect for the contestants. A combo of Richard Dawson, Bob Barker, Alex Trebek and Gene Rayburn. Peter Marshall, Monty Hall, they are all great. And the greatest was Groucho.

Answer 516

Denny Crane! need I say more?

Love Boston Legal

Loved your Roast on Comedy Central

Love YOU!

you need no help here Mr. Shatner... The Shat... I know you'll be hilarious and still in tuned and comitted to all of your guests! Can't wait to watch.

Answer 517

The host must be, inteligent, fast to replay any question, must have a funny sidekick, and pretty girls around, easy going person, know some about everything, always have a fresh jockes, and be willing to understand peopple and let them to fell free in the show, not presure anyboddy, and get a good productor, floor manager and a very good music band.

Answer 518

Dear Mr. Shatner,

Being yourself is the best way to be. You already have all the things you need to be a great game show host. A great smile, and a true gentleman.

Answer 519

The answer is babes. Lets look at the facts. Do people watch The Price is Right to see Bob? I don't think so. And take a look at Vanna White for god's sake. Then ya got the recent hit of Deal or No Deal, need I say more???

Answer 520

To be a great game show host, you have to be smart, funny and personable. William Shatner is all three. I would volunteer to be his co-host. We'd make a great team!

Answer 521

Game show host recipe:



Ingrediants



1) Be Canadian (to follow a long tradition accept for Bob Barker);

2) Have a great personality;

3) Have a beautiful co-host;

4) Have a catch phrase



Method:



Mix all together in a bowl, but into mold, and wait until set.



Servers one talk show host.

Answer 522

In my own opinion, for whatever that may be worth, the job of game show host is that it is all about the guests, not the host. So the audience's attention should be directed to the guest not the host. The same would be true for a talk show host.

Answer 523

Love what you do, and the people that are playing your game. Treat them all as honored guests, like Richard Dawson used to on Family Feud. Smile, smile smile....and toss out tastefull jokes as you would pepper a conversation with an old and trusted friend. Remember, it is the audience who must love your show, or you will be unemployed again soon. Use your charisma, be fun to watch and have an interesting game

Answer 524

First star to the right, and on till morn...just keep the audience on the edge of their seats, ala Bob Barker. You will do just fine Mr. Shatner. Thank You for giving me several years of entertainment on Star Trek. Best wishes.

Answer 525

Because, William S is older now... He should always keep an extra pair of socks rolled-up and stuffed into his under-ware.



But, mostly;



A Great Game Show Host only "NEEDS" to be "NICE" ...

.. and not a put-down wise-guy;



There's no need for a host to try to think of ways that may put-down guests, just to get a small, instant, little laugh..



TV Game Show Guests when allowed to speak, get to show everyone how dumb they are... all by themselves.



A Great Host puts the ego of his guest first.

Answer 526

Mr. Shatner, we are so very proud of you, you're like the Eveready Bunny "keep going and going...". We are BIG fans of yours on Boston Legal...love it!... OK so here's my suggestion... BE Honest... connect with the contestants on a personal level and you're going to be great as you have always been. Be the man on the "balconey" at the end of the show each week on Boston Legal!!! Michele

Answer 527

William your wonderful. I think the best I have seen in a talk show host was one that personized with the people on the show. Some one that was interested in the person and wants their experience to be educational for the audience. Above all else Humor and just be you. Find a nitch..Ellen has dancing with the crowd...find yours. You could pick a guess from the audience for special activity and reward.

Answer 528

It is more interesting for me to watch a host that is on the side of the contestant. If the host takes the side of the house it does not

seem as fun.



Good luck



[e-mail]

Answer 529

Personality

Answer 530

• An honest respect for others and the habit of letting it show.

• Superior listening skills.

• A talent for the speedy organization of incoming information.

• The skill to monitor (the situation) and adjust quickly.

• A quick wit.



NOTE: I suspect that a great game show host also must be able to apply the above, not only to contestants, but those in positions of authority above his own.

Answer 531

Mr. Shatner,



I think you definetly have what it takes to be a great game show host. You have the charisma, the spunk and most definetly comidic timing and the ability to ad lib without a problem. I would most definetly watch (and even try) a game show with you.

Answer 532

The ability to make a guest feel that for just a few minutes, the world revolves around them. Also, a firmly rooted love affair with the camera... something you have in spades!

Finish it off with a sense of style and impeccable timing, and the game show world will swoon at your feet.

Live long and prosper, Captain!

Answer 533

If you're William Shatner, nothing more than being William Shatner. I love the characters he has portrayed.

Answer 534

1. It's about the contestants. If they enjoy themselves - win or lose - then you're doing a fine job. If they walk away empty-handed and sad, well, no one wants to watch that.



2. You're there to entertain and get people pumped up, but only to match the tenor of the show. Bob Barker and Alex Trebek both do a great job of keeping the energy level relevant to the show's premise. Quiz shows live and die on suspense, so Mr. Trebek doesn't have to project himself out as much as - say - Richard Dawson (Family Feud)



3. Surprise us. You can dip into Captain Kirk or Denny Crane from time to time, but don't rely on schtick to carry the show.



You do great work on Boston Legal, looking forward to the new gig. Good luck!

Answer 535

You have to be William Shatner. William Shatner is the most talented and charismatic human being in existence.



No matter what he is saying/selling/fighting or kissing, we, the Martians - the most evil band on your planet - believe every word.



We love him, and we do not know what we'll do when it is his time to depart... probably attempt to follow him and take some of you snivveling puny-human fools along with us...



...but there'll be no talking when he's talking... got that?



love the Martiansx

Answer 536

You have to have that certain wit and sex appeal. That's really what it boils down to these days. Remember that a tremendous amount of your viewers are women, specifically the 35-65 crowd. If you can appeal to them, and I sincerely believe William Shatner would, you will be a hit. He has the wit, the charm, and the showmanship it would take to win over that demographic. I'd bet the farm on it. On a personal note, I would like for his sidekick to be Leonard Nimoy. =)

Answer 537

Mr. Shatner, I have been a HUGE fan of yours since the original days of Star Trek, and all I can say to you is, BE YOURSELF!!! You are one of the funniest, most personable guys I have ever seen, or heard. Your appearances on Howard Strern are classic, your Roast on Comedy Central was great, just charm us like you always do!!!

Answer 538

Don't make fun of the guests - always encourage them. Always be warm, gracious and smile. Don't make off color jokes as these will make you to be perceived as shallow and crass. If you have to joke, joke about yourself, but not too much or else you will be perceived as boorish and self-centered. You are the host, not the star. If possible, try to get to know the guests before the show gets started. Good luck and hope the show is a success.

Answer 539

personality and the ablility to ad lib, especially little jokes about the contestants. But don't be insulting. And remember the show is about the contestants, not the host. For an example watch 1 vs. 100, Bob Saget seems to think the show is about him and just won't shut up!

Answer 540

In addition to being able to think on your feet as well as the charisma to hold people's attention, the best hosts all seemed to genuinely enjoy interacting with the people that surrounded them. Barker always seems to get a kick out of the nuttiness of the contestants, while at the same time sharing in their victories and defeats.

Answer 541

Since everyone knows you its a head start, but take a note from star character Denny Crane, quirks make a memerable person that you want to see over and over again, thus improving the popularity of the show, thus making the host great.

Answer 542

A great game show host is genuinely interested in the people on his show and is able to stay upbeat, no matter what. He has to be on his toes in case someone goes postal when they don't win. He should avoid kissing all the ladies as Family Feud has been cursed. (Of course, if they kiss you, that's different!) Just be yourself, Hon. Trekkies will watch because it is you. (Sorry, you won't escape that one.) Boston Legal fans will watch you because..it's you. (Heck, my husband and I didn't watch Boston Legal until you were there.) You're gonna be super! Just pronounce the names correctly. (George Takei had fun with that at the roast, didn't he?) Best wishes from an early fan base!

Answer 543

Breasts. Bob Barker has girls with them. There are 200 (100 pairs) of them on Deal or No Deal. Vana White has a pair on Wheel of Fortune.



Don't worry though Bill, judging from the episode of Boston Legal where you wrestled David Spader, I'd say you already have the big breasts thing covered!!



Bless you buddy! And I wish you great success on the new show!

Answer 544

Patience is key. When people get excited, they get hyper. Being a celebrity, you probably watch people totally lose their ability to talk around you all the time. Once you toss in the possibility of money and prizes, a good portion of your time may be spent patiently waiting for them to calm down. Or having to calm them down yourself.



Also, you're going to have to develop a love of repetition. This isn't like a TV show or a movie where you may have to say the same lines over and over during the course of a day. This is a game show where you're going to have to say the same things every week. All year. Try to imagine how many times Bob Barker had to say "...a brand new car!" Think you could do it with that kind of enthusiasm? Every time? For as many years as he did?



If you can, you got what it takes. Good luck.

Answer 545

Dear Bill,

To be a great game show host you must kiss your female contestants on the lips upon gtreeting them, as Richard Dawson of Family Fued use to do. However, to get with the times, you should probably also kiss the male contestants, too.

Answer 546

Here are some of the proven ingredients:

* You have to brand yourself, which goes along with

* Longevity of the host and sustainability of the game concept. It has to have universal appeal.

* The players are the stars of the show.

* Drama and exceitment. They break for commercails at critical moments in the game to build up the required drama.

Answer 547

Pre-requisites of great game show host (in no particular order):



1) A great liking or "love" for people of all sizes, shapes, behaviors and styles.



2) An uncommon ability to find the positive in situations, in a way that NEITHER embarass contestant, NOR contestant's family.



3) An ability to be flexible to producer's demands during taping so that strict timeframes are kept.

Answer 548

I think the key here is the word "host."

The main idea is to let the contestants be comfortable in your "house" so they can be relaxed and do their best.



The second most important word is "game." Everyone should be having fun! No one should be taking themselves too seriously-- it's just a game, after all.



Then, you can't forget the word "show." The audience must be entertained, engaged and involved, or they won't watch.



And if all else fails, Bill, you could always sing!

Answer 549

Try not to be a funny man. Usually when hosts try to be funny with something scripted, it just comes off lame. The contestants will provide plenty of opportunities to crack the occasional adlib one liner.

Look at Howie Mandell on Deal or no Deal. Hes a comedian but you dont see him going out their doing his comic routine. He lets the people make themselves look silly and just ads to it.



Bob Sagett is another on 1 vs 100. In his funniest home video days his jokes were terrible, in his new game show, again, he lets the participants make themselves look funny and just plays off their moments.



Be personable, knowledgeable and informative and let the participants provide the comedy.

Answer 550

It has to be the unique combination of clothing and hair. All the great ones have a unique hair situation. Of course we all remember the Gong Show's Chuck Berris...what a mop he had!! So, Mr. Shatner, get growing on top and start to make the appointments for a perm and dye job. As for the clothes, you stylin' guy you...just have the Star Trek wardrobe team make up a series of metallic cloth outfits to accentuate your body and you will shine like a true star!!!

Answer 551

I hope this doesn't mean that Boston Legal is over....I LOVE that show!



Anyway, look at the greats. As a Brit I would say Bruce Forsyth. He had the energy to attract any age group. Game shows are family shows, so you need to imagine 3+ generations are watching.



Offer something for the 8 year old kid, his 30 year old parents and the 55 year old Granparents....possibly the 80 year old Greats. If you can do that as well as Bruce and others have, your show will be great. Leave Danny in Boston for this one haha!

Answer 552

The key word in this question is HOST. Make the studio audience, at home audience and contestants feel welcome, you own the building they are competing in. You are playing a game as they are playing a game. Have fun. Walk a fine line not too humorous not too courteous and a sprinkle of ego. You are playing a supporting role to the contestants. The contestants are the stars.

Answer 553

You have to be semi-believable as being in control or maybe even KNOWING the answers or materials (like Trebek seems, for the most part). You can't be bigger, more famous than the show itself, and I think Shatner while famous... isn't as well-known with the under-30 crowd.

Answer 554

Having a winning personality, a great smile and a willingness to love and respect people of all cultures, faiths and from all walks of life. I am pretty sure that Mr. W.S. Has all of the afore mentioned qualifications and then some..... I mean the guy was the first cat that was into intergalactic dating wasn't he?



Geoffrey D. Holman Screen and playwright

Answer 555

Gotta sit on a balconey with a hard drink, a good cigar and have an engaging dialogue with----no, wait, that's a great dramady show character. Oh well, Bill, you've lasted this long reinventing yourself, so just have at it! You are an original and that seems to be one of the greatest elements you can bring to a game show.

Answer 556

The key ingredient for being sucessful as a game host for William Shattner is to NOT become a game show host. He was decent on Star Trek, but has been a disgrace to TV since then.

Answer 557

As we all say here...A great sense of humor. Not only that, the show host only says something, but a GAMEshow host will not only do that.



Imagine if the gameshow host is boring. OMG, catastrophic. People needs to be amused on the game, it's not really entertaining for people who fight each other for something if no pun given by the game show host.



Hope this helps sir. :)

Answer 558

Well Bill, I like to think that a great attitude, a great suit, and some great Scotch make for a great game show. Good luck on the new show and if its half of what Boston Legal is, then it will surely be a hit. You're the man!

Answer 559

The key ingredient to a great game show host is a unique television persona. You have to be quotable. Assuming the show is half-decent, a great host can make it amazing. You already have the advantage of being a well known actor, especially in your role as Captain Kirk. You can build off of the personality you had on that show, especially the sense of humor that Kirk had.



Also, don't be fake like the deal or no deal guy - as someone already mentioned, he's pretty bad.

Answer 560

Shatner as a game show host? I can get behind that.



I agree with the comment about having a sidekick with whom you can have some spark and chemistry. You've also got to start off the show with lots of charisma, maybe even a little spectacle, and then be able to consistently treat every guest with respect, especially when they're clearly stupid and probably don't deserve to be playing the game. No one likes a condescending game show host.

Answer 561

Enjoy yourself and take a genuine interest in your guests. I've always loved it when a host is just as excited as the guest when they've won something. Have a great rapport with them, and don't be afraid to tease. Some of my favorite moments are when hosts aren't afraid to joke with the guests and let everyone's sense of humor shine.



Tom Bergeron is my current favorite example- he's not afraid to laugh, not afraid to laugh at himself, and works with what he's given, whether the audience is receptive (rare!) or not.



I have no doubt, Mr. Shatner, that you'll be perfect... you have shown time and again a wonderful sense of self and a tounge-in-cheek approach to your fans and critics alike. Good luck!

Answer 562

In order to be a good game show host, try not to be William Shatner. Otherwise you may come off as disinterested and washed up.

Answer 563

For William Shatner, there shouldn't be any. I can't believe he would waste his talent on a game show. I have watched him for years. If this is all he has left to offer, he may as well hang it up. Way too good, Capt'n.

Answer 564

Be as funny as you are on those recent TV commercials where you appear with the old Star Trek Gang. And be yourself. People know you and would probably tune in to get more William Shatner. Good luck with your show.

Answer 565

I would like to see a funny averge looking female host with a gaggle of hunks for a change. I guess there is nothing Captin Kirk can do about that. I am sick of the peek a boo gameshow hootchies and change the channel the second I see that old format. Personally I don't care to spend my time being forced to ogle women because of the camera mans obsession. But hey! why try anything new.

Answer 566

Bill, as a fellow actor ,you are one of my greatest inspirations, I am honored to communicate with you today. Aside from all that, what I'm here to do is answer your question. Study Howie carefully. The man is a true genius with his humor and intensity that he brings to the set. Just like yourself, he is always on point and very tightly focused on the subject at hand, real pinpoint focus, that is the key to his greatness on the show. Looking forward to you and the girls rockin' the house...

Sincerely, Scott A. Church

Answer 567

My favorite game show host was Richard Dawson (his "hotness" factor raised when he kissed the ladies, Shatner doesn't have to kiss cause he's hot kissing or not.). I can't wait to see William Shatner in anything he does, he's the best.

Answer 568

In the case of the "price is right", which I've watched and admired Mr. Barker since I can remember (I'm over 40), I would suggest what Bob has said. "Know the games backwards and forwards". By doing this you will have confidence in what you are doing, which would allow for the host to have fun along with the contestant(s).

Hail Bob! May he live longer and prosper while doing so.

Answer 569

Just being Shatner is enough to assure some success, but you also want to be pretty quirky. Make sure you have a signature phrase or motion for something that's key to the show.



-Final Answer?

-You are the weakest link: goodbye!

-Deal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .or no deal?

-Open palm all finger exaggeration: "You're fired."

-Two and Two.

-Kissing every woman on the show. On the lips if they're hot. On the cheek if they're old.



Make sure you make one up for yourself. Make it something that people will work in to every day conversation.

Answer 570

The ability to motivate each player. A knack to create conversation on the fly. Stage presence and report with the whole gameshow staff. Energy to generate real interest in the game and genuine likeabilty.

Answer 571

Two simple words. "Be Yourself".



Don't be any of the characters you played on tv shows or in the movies. Be William Shatner. You can't fake that. People need something and someone real. You seem like a fun person. Go with it.

Answer 572

I think a great game show host needs to be kind of a car sales men type.



Tacky but not too much, cater to people's emotions but to be able to

talk to people at a superficial level without making them annoyed.



Should not be too good looking or too ugly, not too bright or too dumb, but somehow come across as an "every man". Should be a fairly cheerful individual and have a nack at getting along with people quickly.

Answer 573

Remembering that it's not about YOU (the Host)... It's about the contestant and the Game... Something I don't think Shatner can pull off!

Answer 574

For the host, in this case Mr. Shatner, to sing a portion of the shows opening!

Answer 575

You seem like a very likeable, down to earth kind of guy even though you've enjoyed tremendous success in the public light. I think good game show hosts are witty, but not too intellectual so they aren't intimidating. And they're able to poke fun at anyone, including themselves. A good game show host shows class, even if their occupation doesn't neccessarily. I think you'd be great!!

Answer 576

Energy!



A host who doesn't seem to care much about the show he is hosting will be terrible for the job. Energy has never been a problem for you, Shatner, so good luck!!

Answer 577

Remember that looks are not everything, look at a lot of the current and past hosts. You need to be charming, funny and friendly. You need to be able to hold some type of conversation with any type of person and you need to be able to handle surprises. You never know what will happen with some of the people that go on those shows.

Answer 578

One comment only - DON'T bill yourself the "STAR" of the show - Bob Barker turned off a lot of folks (including me) by sticking with the title for umpteen years. Host, moderator, whatever all work, and one doesn't feel as if they should scrape and bow each time you come on stage. You make the money, so let the contestants feel they are the stars.

Answer 579

The willingness to wake up and do the show for decades. Of course you need a great personality, which you obviously have, but great game show host are in the business for a long long time before they are considered great. Without long levity, you are just another host, in legion with a multitude of others.

Answer 580

Whatever you do, no matter what, don't be cheesy! People hate corny jokes and game show hosts that look like, well, game show hosts! Dress stylishly, don't overact, and let the show sell itself. If you try too hard, it will show. A game show host is like a good necktie--it compliments a suit, but doesn't overpower it. If your personality is too strong, it will be distracting from the show. That's why Regis was so darn annoying on Millionaire! And that is why Bob Barker was so successful--he was friendly and genuine, and just let the show do all the work. He was a great facilitator, and you should emulate him!

Answer 581

That rocks, I can't believe this is the real Shatner!

Just be yourself, and have fun.

I think it helps to have a fun game that people will want to play along with you at home. And let the people who are watching think that they are right there with you.

You've got a great personality. That part is handled.

Don't be snotty like Trebeck. (even though I like Jeapordy, just once I would like to see him roll his eyes, like, man that question was impossible!)

Study Bob Barker and figure out what he is doing right. That guy is the man.

I always loved the way you would jump up, grab something overhead and double leg kick. Nobody fights like Captain Kirk.

You are awesome.

Answer 582

To answer your question we have to look at all the great game show hosts from the dawn of TV up until now.I've watched you since I was a kid.Your Boston Legal persona is charming,laid back at times,and works well in that sit-com.However as a front-man for a Game Show you will need to tweak a little from Jeopardy,Deal or No Deal,Leno & Letterman and that wildly amusing Scottish lad.Hey,have a go,you know you are a winner in my books!!!

Best of luck,break a leg!!!!

John.

Answer 583

Sir,



Ahh, Be Your Self.



Your Outgoing, Funny, Very Social and hard 2 perdict.

lets see, Manipulation is a good thing 2 keep in mind. You have a way of saying things at times people just dont expect. use that 2 your advantage shock and awe keep people unable 2 concentrate

thats gotta be a big plus for a talk show host...



Good Luck cant wait 2 watch!!

ImJustNeo

Morty Rosenfeld

Answer 584

I believe that a talk show host needs to make his/her own style. So, just be yourself, don't try to be Johnny Carson or Oprah Winfrey or David Letterman or Jay Leno...just be William Shatner!

Answer 585

The product is always the game host and not the game. The game is just the icing.



Charisma, pizzazz and the feeling projected to the audience that the game host has something that cannot be replicated, is unique and unrivaled.



Of course, the host has to love what he is doing. And that is for real and not on "Holywood" terms.

Answer 586

A great game show host knows the game inside and out. One of the many reasons Barker is such a great host is that he knows every single one of the 80 different Price is Right games like the back of his hand.

Answer 587

Being William Shatner is a good start. Whatever it takes you have it and it's been with you since the beginning. Your show will do well because the audience is already drawn to you. They have been for years and will continue to be. Good luck Captain!

Answer 588

Dude, don't waste your time with TV. You rocked in the movies, so much better work than any of your TV shows. Game shows are watched for the money anyways, the host just does the same thing everyshow and poeple get tired of him within a week.

Answer 589

Natural charm, and likability. You've gotta be ingratiating enough that everybody will love you, and the viewers will want to invite you into their homes again and again. That's what made Barker such a success, and it worked for Regis Philbin, too. Shatner should have no problem with this...

Answer 590

Not to take things too seriously... you won't have a problem there.



And of course a great head of hair: Monty, Alex, Bob, Merv, Wink, Bert Convy, and...haha, William Shatner!!

Answer 591

I couldn't tell you what the key ingredients to a great game show host is, but I do know that you are a wonderful actor. So I believe you would be a perfect game show host, if that is why you are asking.

Answer 592

To be a great game show host...one that people tune in to watch EVERY time the show is on...one that they DVR when they can't tune in...is simple.

1 - Don't be an ***

*Don't drool over contestants of the opposite

sex-don't make inappropriate remarks about

them, to them, or at them.

2 - Don't try to make it the "Whatever your name

is" show...realize that you are there to enhance

the attributes of the show...not to overshadow

them.

3 - Do get over yourself. Dig down deep inside

and do your best to be a normal human being

that both contestants and audience can relate

to.

4 - Do have a sense of humor...but DON'T be

obnoxious about it (i.e. Bob Saget).

Answer 593

Great sense of humor - being genuine and fairness to all contestants - Mr. Shatner you are a great actor, dating back to that fabulous airplane episode on the twilight zone up to and including your most recent gig on Boston Legal. Be yourself and you will be AWESOME! Your fan for life. Susan Weinman

Answer 594

Hi Bill - the key ingredients are a great personality, sincerity and a love for people. Speak to everyone on a intelligent and courteous level and a good sense of humor helps also (but be sensitive).



Best wishes on your possible new venture!

Answer 595

Be a little corny, a little caring, and a little sarcastic. It is a balance that makes hosts great. It also depends on your audience, older people like Barker, younger people like Howie. Everybody has come to enjoy William and every year, we seem to love him more. We all want to see him and this show do great, so he should just stick to the half-serious, half-corn that makes him so great. Take on the show like he is still fighting plastic monsters or trying to outwit robot brains. He is the only guy in Hollywood that knows his roles were corny, (but also great definers) he doesn't take it serious and enjoys the ride. That is why I will always be a fan... You go William!

Answer 596

A great game show host needs personality, personality, personality! He/She needs to be entertaining to keep you watching, but not too goofy. They need to show they have intelligence, but not in an overbearing way. They have to connect with the contestants, bond with them almost, in the short time they have with them, to show that they care. Not that each contestant is just another contestant - make each one feel special for their 15 minutes (more or less) of fame. And most of all, they need to have fun and enjoy themselves and everyone watching will pick up on the enthusiasm and want to watch every week. Sure you might enjoy playing along with whatever game it is, but it is the show host that really keeps you coming back. If they are lousy, the audience will soon lose interest.

Answer 597

I feel like the key ingredients to a great game show host is someone who really wants to be a game show host. You have to have fun with it and be able to communicate with the players, workers and of course the audience. I also feel that one needs to know the game not learn it as they go

Answer 598

Key Ingredients: 1/4 of Johnny Carson, 1/4 of Jay Leno, 1/4 of Jerry Seinfeld and ofcourse, 1/4 of Johnny Knoxville's craziness & charisma, mix them all together & oven baked at 360 degree for 24 hours. Let it cool down at room temperature and you've got the best any-kind-of -show host.

Answer 599

Be real! Truly care about the people that are playing the game. Be funny...but real. Smiling is important! Show true compasion if they do not when. Laugh with but not at the game players.



Best wishes and good luck to you if you become a talk show host.

Answer 600

Quick thinking, self confidence, good sense of humor, comedic timing, charisma, lots of energy and a likable personality (looks like you've got it made!). You don't need to be a data genius, all the answers are given to you in those little blue cards, but you need to think on your toes: not just to react to what contestants do and say, but to do so in an entertaining way. How has Bob Barker kept himself up there for so many years? All of the above! He knows when to end a silly train of thought and when to encourage it. When to react and when to ignore (in a polite manner). Remember that you need to encourage contestants behaviour and try to make them look good (or silly in an entertaining, non-demeaning way), they are the stars and you are the beacon. Audiences should feel a connection with the contestants to be interested in the show, in the first place.

Another good tip is that smart alecs don't last long if they don't play the smart alec part tongue-in-cheek.

Last but not least, you can more or less predict what might come up during the game, what comments contestants might make, so you can write down clever answers to things that might come up. This will give you a back up batch of material and keep your mind trained for on-the-spot situations. Good luck!!

Answer 601

You!!! you are hysterically funny when you want to be and a great actor. you have an amazing personality.Just be your warm but very comically dry self. Clarify the rules, set everyone at ease, and then just be you! you have always been my favorite actor and since we are the same age, give or take a few years, that means I've been a fan for a long time. Best of luck to you in this new venture!!!! Congrats, Joan.

Answer 602

Not having William S. as the game show host!

Answer 603

None for "The Shat" apply, all he has to do is be his usual goofy self. William shatner is a great comedic actor with impeccible timing. My teenage son and I both watch Boston Legal greatly due to him. I grew up with Star Trek, and now another generation loves him too. We can't wait for the new show !!!!!!

Answer 604

The GRANDEST element you need to have in order to be a great game show host is the company. You must emmerse yourself in beautiful women. Plain and simple. Jack has Vanna. Bob has his beauties. and everyone know's Alex is a square so jeopordy is in another world. Even Howie Mandel has the hotties with the brief cases. If you have great figures in the background, and your apperence isn't too shabby, you'll get fans quick.

Answer 605

dont screw up and dont do anything to bring bad attention to yourself like show your wrinkled balls to the crowd. Just be cool and treat everyone with respect even if you cant stand them. Bob Barker was great at maintaining a pretty wholesome image and nobody had much bad to say about him. I f you get caught up in the hype or your carreer as a game show host will be over quickly. People will not want to except you at first but dont shun those people for they will become your biggest fans if you warm there hearts. Sounds gay I know but thats what works..........

Answer 606

Well Mr. Shatner,



I think you should just be your self. If it's a good game show it will run it's self. everyone loves you in everything you have been in. I know I do from Captan Kirk in Star Trek to Kazar in The Wild OMG I love that movie. So just do your thing, be you and I am sure it will be a hit just like Boston Legal and everything else you put your mind too.





love ya Peaches

Answer 607

A good talk show host must be surrounded by young beutiful women with a variety of tight wardrobes. The talk show host should ask the contestants embarising questions be very critical even rude and at times appear to be inflicted with alzhimers to gain sympathy. At times the talk show host should pretend that he is confused and believes that he is still playing past roles. At times unexpetedly striking out at others to defend his inability to think clearly.

Answer 608

Enthusiasm! Enthusiasm! Enthusiasm! Make quests feel that its a real joy for you to be there and give away prizes/cash. Never, never, never make a guest feel uncomfortable. A good game show host is very intuitive and knows just how far to go with a guest. First and foremost enjoy what you are doing, everything else will fall into place.

Answer 609

Mr. Shatner, you have a natural wit and an outstanding ability to entertain the public with your larger than life prescence. All you have to do to be a successful gameshow host is to be yourself and the world will continue to love you as they always have.

Answer 610

A great GREAT gameshow host always remembers that HE is there to make the contestants look good in spite of themselves. He plays with them, in a respectful but fun way. He allows their adoration of HIM (or her) as a celebrity an intimacy, but doesn't demean them or himself for their display. The best game show host will make even the losers LOOK like winners. And to top it off, we watch the show BECAUSE the host does all these things, and all of us want to be in the shoes of the CONTESTANT not because of the money, but because of the host

Answer 611

Dammit Jim,,,, I am just a doctor! How would I know what it takes to be a game show host. What I would suggest is be yourself. You have been the captain of a starfleep ship, you know what it takes to lead a crew of 452 people, what is a gameshow, but a handful of contestants. My God, Jim, they are not KIlingons or Romulans they are people like you and me. Go out there and charm them with you unique wit and style, that is what the people want to see, not a cardboard cutout or clone of someone already established. They want you,,, a starship cpatian to lead them through the complexities of the game and then to giove them the money when they win and commendations when they lose. Just do it and stop worrying about being successful-- you already are.

Answer 612

Humor, humility and graciousness. Throw in a little flirtiness with the ladies (we love it). ; >



My dad was in the space program here in Houston in the 60s and 70s so of course we never missed Star Trek. I fell for you again on 3rd Rock! Somebody at ABC is a genius to put you and James Spader together! The two of you are the best act on TV. And it is so so good to see Ms Bergen on prime time again. My best to all of you. I do hope your new gig won't take you away from Boston Legal.

Answer 613

Individuality, creativity and wit seem to be the key ingredients to longevity in this field, so, I don't think you will have a problem. You have made every role I've ever seen you do your own, a true original, that's you. Let's just hope the GAME is up to par with your talent. Break a leg!

Answer 614

Dear Sir:

I have always thought you are a great showman. Please forgive me to say this though I really liked you after Star Trek the way you do those commercials and the way you express yourself.

People say you are a bit out there, I just think your as normal as normal can be. My parnets say that I have the personality of you and the mouth of Phil Donahue Good or not .

I really think you'll be a great show host and I look forward to seeing you on the small screen again for many years.

God bless you and we all care about you, thank you.

Sincerely: Stephan Gerard Janosik.

Answer 615

I think the biggest key ingredient to being a great game show host is sincerity. A sense of humor (without embarrising the contestant) and a desire for the contestant to succeed are close seconds.



Good luck in your new endeavor. I love Boston Legal!

Answer 616

The pause. The ability to wait for that response or for the prize to be revealed. Of course William Shatner is the king of the pause. That ... every...phrase... is ...a sentence. It builds drama and climaxes.

Answer 617

Well, most will say it takes charisma, humility and a good sense of humor. As a distinguished actor, you know you have to play to the crowd as well, all good points for any public figure, especially a game show host.



However, you can't be sure of the ingredients until you know what you're baking, so just try it on for size and do what comes naturally. If they like the recipe, then they'll ask for seconds. Just be the Bill we know and admire, and let us know when to tune in... we'll be waiting....

Answer 618

Ideally, a potential game show host should have a background in acting like a lawyer, a cop, and a starship captain. He or she should also have a history of playing amusing supporting roles in a variety of movies. Portraying these types of characters usually indicates the aspirant has a well rounded career and will seamlessly fit into the game show host personna. If you have the above mentioned work history, then I would encourage you to "seek out and explore" your game show calling.

Answer 619

Think about a cross between Bob Barker and Pat Sajack...humble, but with a bit of showmanship....remember, you are a guide, the contestant is the star. Never be like Bob Sacket...overpowering and stretching to be funny. Never like Richard Dawson...overly riske' and getting laughs at the contestant's expense. An excellent example would be Groucho Marx on You Bet Your Life. A really great device is a visible announcer or assistant, like Vanna White ...keeps things in step and consistent. Surprise guest stars and prizes are a must.

Answer 620

Bill,

STAY POSITIVE. No matter how great an opportunity for a put-down presents itself, don't go there. People watching at home will see it as the big, bad Hollywood bigshot picking on the poor schmuck every time. You need to be funny, engaging, entertaining, perhaps even a little cheeky, but not cruel or acerbic. A touch of sacasm is good, but never at the expense of the contenstants. Self-depricating humor is, of course, generally well-taken.

Answer 621

If your personality is genuine your audience will know and will usually like you more than if the show was scripted and you come off as fake. Being yourself is a major part of being a good show host. If you're actual personality is anything like the priceline commercials and outakes of that discovery channel program I saw you on then you'll have an audience.

Answer 622

You need to know the game inside and out, because the odds are good that it will mess up sometime. Dashing is really good with a bit of suave without being hokey.



Smile and laugh a lot. It shows you are having a good time. If you are enjoying it, then the contestants will enjoy it and if everyone on tv looks like they are having fun, then more people will watch and want to be on the show. You need loads of enthusiasm, but don't be a cheerleader about it.



Have fun doing it. If you don't like it, don't do it.

Answer 623

I believe that charisma, kindness, and humor play an integral part in the survival of a game show host. People want hosts to encourage them and let them know either way that they are winners just for being there. Sometimes that is all anyone needs.

Answer 624

The most important ingredient to making a great host is one that LIKES his/her job and one that LIKES the contestants.



Richard Dawson was a good host, so was the dating game host, Bob Barker is another. Although he's retiring soon you could tell that he still always has a good time with his contestants.

Answer 625

People want a man of the people,not someone phony,Bob Barker has a sincerity that you just can't fake.You have to care if they're doing well and feel their pain when they're not..filling in with a quick quib when needed to keep the situation fresh.Spontanaity and consistency are the keys I think .Hope this helps Bill.

Answer 626

Someone who speaks clearly. Someone who understands the anxiety the contestant is feeling. Someone who can laugh at himself. Someone who brings energy to the show but does not overpower the show itself. The show is the game, not about the host. The contestant is the star, not the host. Remember the days of radio and pretend the audience is listening and not watching.

Answer 627

Someone who is funny,energetic, and loves to be around people, they also need to be charming at the same time and not try to 'attempted' what others do on their show. So basically to be a great game show host you need to be all those things and when to say the right things at the right time, but if the game show is like "The Price of Right" then don't be like Bob and rush people let them think but if they take way too long then ask them nicely for an answer ( i ♥ Bob, but he rushes people too much).

Answer 628

To have a great idea for a show. Then to fine the co host or hosts. Next to find the right kind of contestant for that show. And as always find the Right Sponsers and Network. If you have all that you have a great show

Answer 629

Just be yourself which is entertaining enough!!!! I think Shatner will be the most animated host yet!!! Good luck oh and way to go on the hit

Answer 630

Although charisma and humor are important, I believe a great game show host really wants the contestants to win. He/she's genuinely excited when a contestant wins and at least seems genuinely disappointed when they lose. Even after all these years, Pat Sadjak gets excited for the winners and at least looks disappointed for those who do not win. That is my humble opinion.

Answer 631

Stick to commercials and be happy with the huge residuals you're getting from Star Trek re-runs. Hosting a show on TV is not a piece of cake.

Answer 632

1. A general enjoyment of ALL types of people.



2. A generous disposition.



3. A sort of diplomacy that is used when the outcome is less than favorable for the contestant.



4. Recognition and respect of those participating.



5. Many blessings, godspeed, and contributing sponsors!

Answer 633

I have always loved William Shatner's humor. before my father died, my father and I always watched him and laughed at his jokes. To be a great game show host, using his personility for example his captain kirk voice to present the question to the contestant.

Answer 634

Look to Bob Barker and "The Price is Right." He was a fun-loving, animal-loving game-show host. He kept a healthy distance from the contestants but seemed to enjoy it when they won. Don't condescend or make fun of your contestants on the show. They are real people.

Answer 635

Just being yourself and sharing yourself with the live and TV audience. Don't try to be someone your not and don't let a producer change who you are. Your obviously talented and that is what brought you to the dance in the first place. Make it fun to watch and listen too. Don't try to be or copy what the previous host did well or best, just create you own persona. Good Luck and I look forward to your new opportunity.

Answer 636

I believe that you have the right stuff to be a great game show host:



* A sense of humor. Able to poke fun of yourself and others.

* Good personality. Friendly and able to get along well with others.

* Able to alter emotional response. I think being an actor and a good one at that will be a great asset to you.

* Ability to emphasize a dramatic moment. Again, your acting skills are an asset.

Answer 637

If it is a current game show make sure you learn the game inside and out. If it is a new game show then just make sure the audience gets involved and always make it a fun and exciting experience for all to watch so they come back for more.



Good Luck

Michael Kennish

Raven Entertainment Karaoke & DJ

Answer 638

A person who genuinely cares about people and shows the excitement of a contestant's wins or losses. A game show host isn't arrogant and doesn't bring up things that they've done or things that they are known for. Most of all, game show hosts are fun and easy going.

Answer 639

A sense of humor and in-check self esteem! No one wants to watch someone host a show that is clearly uncomfortable, and worse yet, a real drag! Be funny, for God's sake...and not canned jokes with canned laughter...really have fun and the "funny" will come! If I watch someone who is fun and really appears to be having fun doing what they are doing, it makes all the difference in the world!

Answer 640

Charisma, self deprecating humor, the ability to stand back and let the guests shine and of course- the quick wit to bounce back and make a joke out of all the little things that can and do go wrong. A great smile really helps too.