The Kwan Factor: NBC - IceNetwork.com - 2008 U.S. Nationals

[Joesitz (RIP)]

It seems the topic has turned toward the event rather than the Michelle factor. That's as it should be. As much I dig Michelle as a fabulous figure skater, I did not watch the show. I gave up on pageants after Miss America 1970 when it was great fun to watch and gigle at the talent sector. With a gallon of Gallo we all got plastered and realized we were watching the most serious boring show on TV.

Were you all waiting with baited breath for the announcement of the winner?

Joe

 

[kittyjake5]

That said, I'll be the first to eat my hat if she DOES get hired and brings with her to the booth the insight and wittiness of Dick Button (and works on her voice so it's not so :indiff: and monotone)

Just because you were a champion skater doesn't mean you'll be a star commentator. I think the key for NBC is to try and go for a younger commentating team. The team of Dick and Peggy worked well but they could be alienating younger audiences. Of all the current skaters out there, I actually think Tara L. would be the best choice - it SEEMS like she'd fit in well with a broadcast team.

But I dunno...I don't want to be forced to listen to someone drone on and on just because they once had star power.

Are you serious, Tara L. in the booth. You could always press the mute button if and when Michelle is commentating or better still tape the show then you can just fast forward when Michelle is speaking - that way you won't have to listen to Michelle drone on just because in your opinion she once had star power.

 

[Kwanford Wife]

Hah! Kwan once had star power... That's like saying that Michael Jordan once had star power...

 

[R.D.]

Well, this is a non-issue until we know who's going to be a part of the broadcast team. Really, what I was getting at is I hope they choose someone based on commentating/broadcasting TALENT, not former SKATING talent. There is a difference.

But honestly- during the performance they should keep any comments short and to the point. Dick B. has a tendency to just rattle on and on once he finds something to talk about. I still think he'll find a way onto the new team, though.

 

[kittyjake5]

I understand Red Dog that you would like to see someone with commentating/broadcast talent in the booth that would be nice for a change, but don't the networks usually go with former skaters in the booth and me being a Kwan fan would love to see her in that booth. Of course it is all speculation at this point.

 

[Joesitz (RIP)]

Umm, sort of- although I would be more interested in her career, mindset, etc. I do enjoy reading about skaters' experiences and hearing them talk about it. I also like seeing their personality come out. But it's not all about having an "online journal" these days. I just find her very uninteresting....skating and personality-wise.
But I get that from her public persona. I dunno...maybe she should really become a politician

No problem even mentioning it. We are ALL aware of your feelings towards Kwan. It's in every post about Kwan and you have to repeat it and repeat it and repeat it as if to counteract the favorable views from others. So it's all quite obvious, and quite sad that you live in this constant terror of Kwanism.

One thing you wont do is to name someone who is not like Kwan's public persona and who has this interesting open career and open mindset that you appreciate so much. That would put you on a spot and you yourself will probably not want to be so open publicly. Now tell me I got it all wrong and that you will name some figure skater who has the qualities you have found that Kwan does not have.

Joe

 

[R.D.]

I understand Red Dog that you would like to see someone with commentating/broadcast talent in the booth that would be nice for a change, but don't the networks usually go with former skaters in the booth and me being a Kwan fan would love to see her in that booth. Of course it is all speculation at this point.

Yeah...I wonder if they'll bring in Costas as well...as much as he seems to annoy many folks, I think he does a very good job of telling sports stories. His work during the NBA and the Olympics IMO was quite good.

As for "favorable personalities", I don't think it's shameful at all to hide the fact that you want to win. And if you don't know by now whose personality I favor, all I'm gonna say is..."Where've you been??" I practically drove the point home last year!

 

[Joesitz (RIP)]

As for "favorable personalities", I don't think it's shameful at all to hide the fact that you want to win. And if you don't know by now whose personality I favor, all I'm gonna say is..."Where've you been??" I practically drove the point home last year!

Wherever I was, RD, I missed you finally opening up and allowing yourself to be vulnerable. You are, imo, fearful of letting too much of your personality public.

So. Drive the point home again and tell us who your personality favorite is.

Joe

 

[R.D.]

In two words: JOHNNY WEIR

 

[R.D.]

Wherever I was, RD, I missed you finally opening up and allowing yourself to be vulnerable. You are, imo, fearful of letting too much of your personality public.

Sorry, but I don't know where this rubbish comes from- I think I speak my mind, am honest about my opinions and pull no punches.

*segment of post removed*

Red Dog fears nothing

 

[Mathman]

In two words: JOHNNY WEIR

What?! I thought you meant Kimmie!

 

[R.D.]

Kimmie's a nice all around kid and she's definitely likeable (so far). But when it comes to downright honesty and openness, which is what the topic is about, you don't get better than Weir. (although I could do without the flamboyancy)

 

[Joesitz (RIP)]

Kimmie's a nice all around kid and she's definitely likeable (so far). But when it comes to downright honesty and openness, which is what the topic is about, you don't get better than Weir. (although I could do without the flamboyancy)

What? I thought your only interest was the Ladies?

 

[SeaniBu]

What? I thought your only interest was the Ladies?

Ya, you 2. I think I get the gist of what you 2 guys like and than....surprise.

 

[Mathman]

RD, if it’s honesty you admire, IMHO no one is more honest in interviews and public statements than Michelle Kwan.

Her basic premise, when asked about her personal life, likes and dislikes, opinions of other skaters, views on issues outside of skating is: None of your business, jerkface (only she is too well-reared to say jerkface. I know, I know – wouldn’t it be refreshing if she said jerkface? No, it wouldn’t.).

Michelle is 100% consistent on this score. “So, Michelle, what’s up with this Anschutz boy?” ("None of your business, jerkface.")

“Do you like Sasha?” (“I respect the commitment and talent of all skaters.” Translation, “ROFL!!!!!!!”)

“Do you support President Bush’s middle east policies?” ("I have this to say about that -- I skated to Schehezade at the Olympics – (Jerkface)")

 

[demarinis5]

You have to hand it to the Kween she can say none of your business so many different ways. lol

 

[R.D.]

What? I thought your only interest was the Ladies?

It IS my only interest. Let me clarify that in no way, shape or form do I like men's (or pairs, or dance) skating. However, when it comes to honesty, I always get a kick out of reading Weir interviews.

 

[attyfan]

...

As for "favorable personalities", I don't think it's shameful at all to hide the fact that you want to win. And if you don't know by now whose personality I favor, all I'm gonna say is..."Where've you been??" I practically drove the point home last year!

If (for example) Weir was a commentator, how long would it be before he did or said something that overshadowed what was happening on the ice? Maybe a skater who is a little more "bland" (or less attention-hungry) be better for this job?

 

[R.D.]

I never said he would make a good commentator. I simply said I appreciate his honesty.

 

[Joesitz (RIP)]

It IS my only interest. Let me clarify that in no way, shape or form do I like men's (or pairs, or dance) skating. However, when it comes to honesty, I always get a kick out of reading Weir interviews.

and you demand honesty in basketball too Am I correct? But you have no interest in the WBL. Liberty is always getting hyped in the NY papers.

Joe