The TV Zone

Here's some big news and maybe good news and kind of sobering news too: Arsenio Hall, who used to be somebody, is returning to network TV as host of a MyNetworkTV reality show called "Funniest Moments." It launches this fall.

Why sobering? In part, because a MyNetworkTV gig is not exactly something you kvell about.But Arsenio - as you so richly remember - is or was a hugely talented guy who once ran a pretty good late night talk show; if he brings some of that to the party, then maybe this is a turnaround for MyNetwork AND AH. The new show? Think clips and "America's Funniest Home Videos," and such stuff.

MyNetwork is certainly banking on his old superstar status, as well it should: Check out this graf from the press release:

"The versatile actor, comedian, and producer is best known as the host of the Emmy-Award winning late night talk show 'The Arsenio Hall Show.' Premiering on January 3, 1989, 'The Arsenio Hall Show' virtually overnight, changed the face of late night television by captivating young viewers across the country. During his successful five-year run as Executive Producer, Arsenio provided a forum for cutting edge comedy, politics and the television debut of such pop superstars as Mariah Carey, Snoop Doggy Dogg, Boyz to Men, and countless others."

AH has done some TV since, notably "Martial Law" and "Arsenio" and was host of "Star Search" for a while, and was even on "The Naked Brothers Band," I think. Good luck, Arsenio. (Cleveland's depending on you...)