"Star Search" (1983) TV series 1983-1995

Writers:

Jerrod Cardwell (writer) (2003)
Scott C. Voss (writer)

Seasons:

1 | 2 | 3 | 7 | 8 | 9 | unknown

Release Date:

17 September 1983 (USA)

Genre:

Comedy | Family | Game-Show | Music

Plot:

Contestants compete in a talent show featuring music and comedy categories.

Plot Keywords:

Talent | Variety | Competition | Non Fiction

Awards:

1 nomination

Cast

Ed McMahon	...	Himself - Host / ... (32 episodes, 1983-2003)
Sam Riddle	...	Announcer / ... (26 episodes, 1983-1986)
Durell Coleman	...	Himself - Male Vocalist (15 episodes, 1984-1985)
Beverly Leech	...	Herself - Actress / ... (13 episodes, 1984-1985)
Kevin Alexander Stea	...	Himself / ... (13 episodes, 1990-1991)

Runtime:

60 min

Country:

USA

Language:

English

Color:

Color

Certification:

USA:TV-PG

Filming Locations:

Hollywood Center Studios - 1040 N. Las Palmas Avenue, Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, USA

Company:

2929 Productions

Trivia:

Marla Heasley was the show's first spokesmodel. She won the pilot episode with John Schneider as the host. She went on to win two more shows with Ed McMahon as the host replacing John Schneider.

Movie Connections:

Referenced in Kickin It Old Skool (2007)

Before American Idol and Who Wants to Be A Star!

Ed McMahon was the host of this star making series that lasted a few years in syndication. Star Search wasn't so much about the judges like American Idol. In fact, I barely remember the judges. They were often coy, cool, and collective like their host, Ed McMahon. This show launched careers like the country music group, Sawyer Brown, and some others. Unlike American Idol and it's copycats, Star Search never gave the impression of being rude or cruel to their contestants. It was more first class. They treated their contestants like stars with respect and dignity. Granted, only a few became superstars. But the show was never about the judges or host and their antics as we have seen in recent years, it was about finding and nurturing talent. On Star Search, Susan Boyle would have been treated even if she couldn't sing. Star Search never did show the rejection auditions. Maybe that's a good thing.