Almost Live!: The Show that Wouldn't Die - Paperback

by Bryan Robert Johnston (Author)

The success of Almost Live is ridiculous. A two-bit comedy show, no budget, dropped into a black hole of a time slot; it loses its host, goes through a schedule and format change, airs sketches that almost get the station sued and the show canceled. Oh, and for good measure a cast member dies on set. In any sane universe these television experiences would be filed under How to ensure unmitigated failure. But in the bizarre world of Almost Live apparently normal reality doesn't exist. Over fifteen years the show racked up more than 100 Emmy(R) Awards and becomes a ratings juggernaut. How the hell? Hear first hand accounts from the cast and crew, and relive memories of one of the most beloved and influential television shows in Seattle history. Billy Quan, High Five'n White Guys, The Lame List, Ballard Driving Academy, Cops in Kent, they're all here.

Author Biography

Bryan has been a television and video writer/producer for three decades during which he has won 11 Emmy(R) Awards along with several other national awards. He is the author of three books and has written for numerous magazines and websites. He was also blessed with being an on-air movie reviewer for ten years, which according to Bryan was the greatest gig on the planet. He currently lives in Lake Forest Park, Washington, just outside of Seattle with his wife, two kids and one very large dog. He is a devout movie lover, sports fan and avid reader. He hopes the Seattle Mariners make it to the World Series before he dies, and he's still bugged the referees didn't even give the Seahawks a chance to win Super Bowl XL. Bryan bats right, throws right and has a terrible sweet tooth that he believes will be his undoing. His favorite color is purple (which thrills his daughter), he takes immense pride in his Norwegian-ness, and never did learn to hit the curve ball. (According to Negro League legend, Buck O'Neil, it's because they were throwing it right) He has a pretty dreadful jump shot but a surprisingly passable low-post game. He loves prime rib, ice cream and has discovered that asparagus, when prepared correctly, is actually quite good. He believes one of the greatest moments in life is when they dim the lights before a movie. Bryan is a mediocre golfer.