Banzai!, Fox, ET/PT 8:30 pm.
Debut: This somewhat bizarre, but innovative and amusing show became a cult hit when it originally aired in Britain, and it has a chance of gaining a similar following here. Aired already in Canada on some CHUM stations, Fox has picked up the series, which spoofs game shows and features hilarious stunts, practical jokes and odd gags, upon which the audience is encouraged to place bets. In the first episode, for example, an interviewer introduces himself to a celebrity, in this case Kelsey Grammer (\"Frasier\"). The audience must then guess how long the interviewer can keep the actor grasped in a handshake. With its wacky commentary and off-the-wall antics, Banzai might not appeal to everyone, but it's a sure bet that some viewers will keep coming back for more.
And on Family (Canada), a \"competition\". (I wouldn't call this a game show -- and no, let's not restart those endless threads about what a game show is -- but I did have the above legitimate item, and people my age *cough* have indelible memories of the original late-disco era show, hosted by Merv Griffin boy toy Denny Terio.)
Dance Fever, Family, ET/PT 8 pm.
Debut: Carmen Electra (\"Baywatch\"), rapper MC Hammer and Britney Spears choreographer Jamie King are the celebrity judges for this new reality contest based on the '80s variety show. The young contestants flock to Las Vegas, hoping to boogie their way to the $100,000 grand prize.