Talk show facts for kids
A talk show is a special kind of radio or television program. In these shows, one or more hosts talk about different topics with guests. These topics can be about current events or other interesting subjects.
Many talk shows, especially on the radio, let people watching or listening join in. They can call in, send letters, e-mail, or even chat online. Talk shows are often made to entertain people. Many of them include funny parts or performances from entertainers. However, many shows also help the public by sharing important information and discussing issues openly. Some talk shows are local, meaning they are only for one area. Others are shown on many stations across a region or country.
The host of a talk show might already be a celebrity (a famous person). Or, they might become famous because their show gets very popular. Some hosts are experts in a certain area, like psychology or business. Others are well-known performers who are good at talking with people. Guests on a talk show can also be experts, professionals, or new and famous celebrities, performers, or athletes. Sometimes, guests are regular people who have done something interesting, like inventors or authors. They might also be people who became known because of a big event or accident.
Television Talk Shows
Johnny Carson hosted NBC's The Tonight Show for 30 years. He had guests from all walks of life, including many old and new celebrities. Comedian Jay Leno took over The Tonight Show when Carson retired. Singer Mike Douglas also hosted a popular, long-running show. He had different guests co-host with him each week. Merv Griffin, David Frost, and Dick Cavett also had talk shows that lasted a long time. Dr. Joyce Brothers was one of the first women to host a national talk show. Other women who became hosts include Oprah Winfrey, Joan Rivers, Ricki Lake, Rosie O'Donnell, and Ellen DeGeneres.
Many celebrities host a talk show after they finish working on a TV show. They might do this to try something new in their career. Or, they might want to talk about things they think are important. Many of these shows only last for a year or two, or even less. Actresses Gabrielle Carteris, Caroline Rhea, and Megan Mullally each hosted short-lived talk shows after leaving successful TV series. Almost every show that aired at the same time as The Tonight Show was canceled quickly. This includes shows hosted by Chevy Chase and Dennis Miller. Arsenio Hall had a show that lasted five seasons, which was quite successful. Late Show with David Letterman has been one of the most successful shows and is still on TV.
Radio Talk Shows
Talk shows became very popular on AM radio starting in the 1970s. This happened as AM stations began to play less music. Today, you can hear talk shows on AM, FM, shortwave radio stations, satellite radio, and the Internet. Larry King started his career on radio. He then moved to television after many years as a popular host. Howard Stern became known for his exciting shows, which sometimes used strong language and personal topics. Art Bell talked about interesting topics, like UFOs and possible government secrets.
Call-in shows are made especially for people to join in by telephone. Callers might want to talk about current topics in politics, economics, or social trends. They might also call to ask for advice or help with a personal problem. Dr. Laura Schlesinger, Dr. Joy Browne, and Bruce Williams help callers with their problems. Meanwhile, Michael Savage and many other hosts discuss current issues on their radio shows.
Images for kids
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Oprah Winfrey made the tabloid talk show popular.
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Dick Cavett and Jack Paar
See also
In Spanish: Programa de entrevistas para niños
