[quote name=\'Robair\' date=\'Oct 29 2003, 08:55 AM\'] [quote name=\'whewfan\' date=\'Oct 29 2003, 05:31 AM\'] For some reason, Rod's participation in the showcases faded away, which IMO took away from the fun of the showcases. Was it concern for Rod's health, or was it that Bob felt his participation was not needed? Maybe Randy or Burton (whomever they decide) can be persuaded to do showcase skits, if Roger, Phil, and Bob think it'll work. [/quote]
I think the issue in the cessation of the skits is time. With all the minutes continually chipped away by ads and promos, there really isn't a lot of time anymore to do a lavish sketch like in the old days. And we can forget about Randy or Burton doing any on-camera stuff as per Fremantle's quasi-official decree that announcers shall not be shown on camera. [/quote]
Does anyone have a clue why this is? Even if it's Fremantle's explaination, its better than nothing. Unless it's purely time (which I can understand), then I can't think of a single explaination for cutting the announcer time.