CBS Postpones “Hollywood Squares” Premiere Amid Los Angeles Wildfires
In a somber response to the ongoing devastation caused by the Los Angeles wildfires, CBS has announced the postponement of the highly anticipated premiere of the rebooted “Hollywood Squares.” Originally set to air tonight, the show will now debut on Thursday, January 16, at 8 p.m. ET, a week later than planned.
The decision comes as wildfires continue to ravage the Los Angeles area, with the Sunset fire in Hollywood alone engulfing 60 acres and forcing 130,000 residents to evacuate. Insiders revealed that the network felt it was inappropriate to air a lighthearted celebrity game show during such a tragic time. “It didn’t feel appropriate to showcase a lighthearted show featuring celebrities joking with each other at this moment due to the severity of the fires and the number of celebrities who have lost homes in the disaster,” sources said.
In place of the premiere, CBS will air repeats of “George and Mandy’s First Marriage” and “Ghosts” during the 8 p.m. hour. Meanwhile, CBS’ local affiliate, KCBS-TV, has been providing wall-to-wall coverage of the wildfires, a service expected to continue tonight.
The new iteration of “Hollywood Squares” features Drew Barrymore as the center square, with Nate Burleson hosting. produced by Jesse collins Entertainment and Barrymore’s Flower Films, the show retains much of its classic format. “The ‘board’ for the game is a vertical stack of open-faced cubes, each occupied by a celebrity seated at a desk and facing the contestants. The celebrities are asked questions, and the contestants judge the legitimacy of their answers to win the game,” the description reads.
This marks the first new edition of “Hollywood Squares” since the syndicated version hosted by Tom Bergeron aired from 1998 to 2004. Barrymore, who also hosts the syndicated talk show “The Drew Barrymore Show,” brings her signature charm to the iconic game show.The wildfires have not only disrupted television schedules but also highlighted the resilience of the Los Angeles community. As CBS adjusts its programming, viewers are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets and support relief efforts.
| Key Details |
|——————|
| Original Premiere Date | January 9, 2025 |
| New Premiere Date | January 16, 2025, 8 p.m. ET |
| Host | Nate Burleson |
| Center Square | drew Barrymore |
| Replacement Programming | Repeats of “George and Mandy’s First Marriage” and “Ghosts” |
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As the city grapples with the ongoing crisis, the postponement of “Hollywood Squares” serves as a reminder of the importance of sensitivity and solidarity during challenging times.
Behind the Decision: CBS Delays “Hollywood Squares” Premiere in Light of Los Angeles Wildfires
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In the wake of the devastating Los Angeles wildfires, CBS has made the tough decision to postpone the premiere of the rebooted “Hollywood Squares.” Originally scheduled to air on January 9, 2025, the show will now debut on January 16, 2025, at 8 p.m.ET. To better understand the implications of this decision, we sat down with Dr. Emily Carter, a media and cultural studies expert, to discuss the intersection of entertainment, crisis management, and community sensitivity.
The Decision to Postpone: A Balancing Act
Senior Editor: Dr.Carter, CBS cited the severity of the wildfires and the impact on the community as the primary reasons for postponing the premiere. What are your thoughts on this decision?
Dr. Emily Carter: I think it’s a commendable move. In times of crisis, media outlets have a responsibility to prioritize the well-being of their audience. The wildfires have caused meaningful destruction, displacing thousands and affecting countless lives, including those of celebrities. Airing a lighthearted game show like “Hollywood Squares” at such a time could have been seen as tone-deaf. By postponing, CBS is demonstrating sensitivity and solidarity with the affected communities.
Replacement Programming: A Strategic Choice
Senior Editor: In place of the premiere, CBS is airing repeats of “George and mandy’s First Marriage” and “Ghosts.” How does this choice reflect the network’s approach to crisis management?
Dr. Emily Carter: Repeats are a safe choice during a crisis. They don’t require additional production efforts, and they provide familiar, comforting content for viewers. It’s also worth noting that both shows are sitcoms, which are generally less controversial and more universally appealing than other genres.this decision allows CBS to maintain its programming schedule without appearing insensitive to the ongoing situation.
The Role of Local Affiliates in crisis Coverage
Senior Editor: CBS’s local affiliate, KCBS-TV, has been providing extensive coverage of the wildfires. How important is this local reporting during such events?
dr. Emily Carter: Local affiliates play a crucial role in crisis situations. They provide real-time updates, evacuation facts, and resources for those affected. In this case, KCBS-TV’s coverage ensures that residents have access to critical information, which can literally be life-saving. It also reinforces the network’s commitment to serving its community, which is especially critically important during emergencies.
The Cultural Significance of “Hollywood Squares”
Senior Editor: “Hollywood Squares” is a beloved classic. What does its return mean for the entertainment landscape, and how does Drew Barrymore’s involvement add to its appeal?
Dr. Emily Carter: “hollywood Squares” has a nostalgic charm that resonates with audiences across generations. Its return taps into the current trend of reviving classic formats,which often attract both older fans and new viewers. drew Barrymore, as the center square, brings her signature warmth and humor to the show. Her involvement not only adds star power but also aligns with her broader role in the entertainment industry as a relatable and beloved figure.
Looking Ahead: The New Premiere date
Senior Editor: The show is now set to premiere on January 16. What can viewers expect from this new iteration, and how might the delay impact its reception?
Dr. Emily Carter: The new “Hollywood Squares” promises to retain the classic format while incorporating modern touches.Nate Burleson as host and Drew Barrymore as the center square create a dynamic duo that should appeal to a wide audience. As for the delay,I don’t think it will negatively impact the show’s reception. If anything, it might generate additional interest and goodwill, as viewers appreciate the network’s sensitivity during a difficult time.
Final Thoughts: Media Responsibility in Times of Crisis
Senior Editor: Any final thoughts on how media outlets should navigate programming decisions during crises?
Dr. Emily Carter: Media outlets have a unique responsibility to balance entertainment with empathy.In times of crisis, they must prioritize the needs of their audience, whether that means postponing shows, providing critical information, or supporting relief efforts. CBS’s decision to delay “Hollywood Squares” is a prime example of how media can demonstrate solidarity and sensitivity, reinforcing the importance of community during challenging times.
for more updates on the wildfires and CBS programming changes, follow Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Sign up for Variety’s Newsletter to stay informed on entertainment news and developments.
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