I vaguely remember that era where you couldn't mock Karn, but I also think it was because he was a step or two above Louie. By his third or fourth season, folks were tired of his shtick as well, esp. the audience's reaction to him doubling/tripling the points. The production of Louie's version wasn't that bad, he was just an abysmal host. Same for Karn, except replace "abysmal" with "perfectly mediocre"
Piggybacking on Chris P.'s earlier point, I believe the show was nearly canceled at one point. I def. remember the sub 2.0 ratings in the early-2000s. I sometimes forget this version has aired continuously for 15 years now...almost seems like it was canceled and then came back.
I was still in diapers when Dawson's version was canceled, but from what I've read about the show, here and elsewhere, I dunno if I'd say Steve's version is more popular. I think it only
seems that way because it's airing all over the place.
Yes it is. The current Syndicated version of the show began in September 1999, and is now in its 16th year.
Steve's only in his fifth season...technically, his tenure has been where the show's gained steam.