The Big Show(1980)

The Big Show is an American comedy-variety-musical series that aired on NBC in 1980, attempting to revive the fading variety television format that had declined since the cancellations of The Ed Sullivan Show and The Carol Burnett Show. The ambitious 90-minute program featured an expansive stage set and star-studded lineup, with regular performers including Joe Baker, Graham Chapman, Mimi Kennedy, and Shabba-Doo, plus guest hosts like Steve Allen, Nell Carter, and Gary Coleman. Olympic figure skaters Peggy Fleming, Dorothy Hamill, and John Curry also appeared. Despite strong initial ratings and six Emmy nominations—winning for Outstanding Costume Design—the series struggled with poor reviews and declining viewership, leading to cancellation after just a few months.