The Monty Hall Smokin-Stokin' Fire Brigade

[Matt Ottinger]

Was anybody aware of this June, 1972 variety special?  A synopsis:

Monty Hall takes viewers on a tour of California to visit with the people and join in their festivities, will be telecast 8 to 9 p.m., Monday on ABC-TV. Joining Monty on the tour will be Cass Elliot, the lively young music group, the Mike Curb Congregation, and comedian Fred Smoot. Jim Backus, “Laugh-In’s” Johnny Brown, Dom DeLuise, Fabian, Annette Funicello, Rosey Grier and Jo Ann Worley make cameo appearances. Utilizing fire engines and hook-and-ladders, Monty and troupe join in such festivities as fiestas, pow-wows, Japanese celebrations, a Gold Rush days fete and a cattle round-up. ‘“The Monty Hall Smokin’- Stokin’ Fire Brigade” marks the first time Monty Hall has starred in a comedy-variety special — a departure from his successful role as host of the network’s weekday game show “Let’s Make A Deal.

if you go to http://www.gettyimages.com and search "Monty Hall", on page 5 of your search results you'll see a bunch of color promo pictures of this.  Having never heard of it myself, I found it fascinating.

[gamed121683]

I remember years ago, there was an episode of A&E's "Biography" where Monty was the subject and IIRC, were there some quick clips of Monty singing and dancing from Sea World?

[jimlangefan]

I'll have to quickly go through his Autobiography again.  The picture on Getty Images that you are referring to is in that book and I think it was briefly talked about.  If I'm not mistaken, when LMAD was renewed Monty negotiated some variety specials as part of his new contract and I believe that was the first of them.

[Fedya]

the lively young music group, the Mike Curb Congregation,

I don't know why, but this made me burst out laughing.

And surely Fabian would have been considered passé by then?