The Greatest Show on Earth

I like to comment on obscure or somewhat forgotten t.v. shows. This is no exception, judging by the dearth of comments on this particular show.

Jack Palance as leading man and not villain. Who'da thunk? But, he was a good one in this show. Palance plays Johnny Slate, Circus Director for the Barnum and Bailey Circus.

The show focused on individuals in the circus and the drama that surrounded their lives.

Slate was ever-ready to jump in and help, kibitz, guide, etc., while running the circus. I seem to remember a lot about Slate supervising putting up the tents and taking them down. Also, loading up the train and moving on to the next town.

Mostly, I remember enjoying the acts that were featured - lion-taming acts, trapeze acts, etc.

It was a good enough series but short lived. It introduced Jack Palance to t.v. audiences as a likable character - in deference to most people's recall of the actor, the evil Jack Wilson, gunslinger baddie from Shane.