Comments:
Some time back, I sent Mr. Ottinger via email a personal correspondence about one of the more overlooked of Cullen's shows, "Three on a Match", a "Concentration"-like Bob Stewart production that led off NBC's afternoon schedule from 1971-74. In a number of markets, particularly in the Central Time Zone, the show was preempted by affiliates running local news or the women's shows common during that period, so some may not have had the opportunity to see that show, as they did, say, "To Tell the Truth," which aired evenings in most parts of the country during "3oaM"'s run. Jason Bereza's site that Ottinger lists on that show's page explains the rules adequately. Personally, I think "3oaM" was very representative of Cullen's self-effacing, easy-going, gentle manner--something that was in short supply in the early 70s. When you consider its competition was the rambunctiouness on Monty Hall's "Let's Make a Deal" and the melodramatic histronics of the ratings-leading soap "As the World Turns," you definitely had a calm, serene choice for a lunchtime break. Although a tyke at the time of its run, I remember it with particular affection because Cullen, along with Art Fleming and Bob Barker, were excellent male role models for my little developing mind. Not to bear too heavily in child development, but couple Cullen's restrained, nice voice and Don Shirley's kaleidoscope-like set design were quite soothing and charming to a nervous young boy, and I imagine I will never forget it. Basically, the show fused elements of the other popular NBC daytime games then running: of course the "Concentration" matching element for the prize, but the contestant's spending down his/her cash total was borrowed from "Sale of the Century". Further, the three-contestant configuration was a staple of games like "Jeopardy" and the "3Ws" (an Art James-hosted quiz), and the true-false question format was used sometimes on "Hollywood Squares" (I think). If you saw only "3oaM" during the day, you could definitely get a taste of the distinct flavor of NBC daytime games. Unfortunately, I am not so hot on the show that replaced it, "Winning Streak", and I know I am not the only one. I thoroughly believe NBC Daytime head Lin Bolen (the alleged model for Faye Dunaway's character in "Network") more or less crafted the whole thing herself, running roughshod over Bob Stewart, and embarrassing Cullen profoundly, not only through her casual dress code (remember the open collar and leisure suits?) but by the absolute stupidity of the rules of that game. I won't go any further into that, other than to affirm Ottinger's observation and to also opine that Cullen should have been treated with more respect than he got from Lin Bolen. Thanks to her machinations, NBC would lose its lead in its daytime programming--for good, up to this very day. Forgive me for my denunciations, but I know that style has entirely triumphed over substance in TV production, and I think one early symptom of that could be found in shows like "Winning Streak". Also, Cullen definitely deserves commending for his firm loyalty to Stewart, who did not repay that loyalty adequately enough with good show concepts and recognition. At least Mark Goodson had better sense in that regard. I definitely do not want to end on an angry or bitter note, so I say if you ever get a chance to view the one remaining episode of "3oaM", put it on the FINEST tape available. It is a treasure, a memento of a lost time of fair play, relative innocence, and good will. Wouldn't a little dose of Cullen help us today? I think so!

Comments:
What a fabulous site! To have taken time composing it, having the breadth and depth of content with the classic pictures, I am truly impressed. Browsing this site brings me back to the influence TV had on my childhood period of the 50's and 60's. And to be reminded that Mr. Cullen's prior work on tpir was not mentioned during his visit with Bob Barker (Johnnie Olsen, announcer) on the current version of tpir saddens me. I am also reminded of a small snafu that occurred during one of the Pyramid shows Mr. Cullen was hosting (Jack Clark, announcing? - Jack liked the girls! and would always imply that during audience warm ups; also, he did a Winston commercial on the Chicago River). At the top of the show, in a 'happy talk' segment with guest John Ritter, Mr. Cullen, in his gracious way, mentions how he 'likes' his father's music. It was stated in a way which left the viewer understanding John's father, Tex, was still alive. But Tex Ritter had passed some time prior. A double take by John Ritter's part was observed. But the show continued quickly and smoothly without a hitch! Post editing translates to additional production costs, so the producer let this one go. We are fortunate to have many classic game shows recorded for our viewing pleasure today. Not only to reminisce, but for those of later generations to study and learn the quality of character in great personalities, hosts, and voices such as Mr. Cullen. Thank you for your site.