Features

Hey Joe!

jkvsfranklin.jpgHe holds a record in the Guinness Book of World Records for the longest-running talk show. He’s the King of Nostalgia. He’s a legend. He’s Joe Franklin.

And it seems that I can’t look His Majesty in the eye. In truth, we were trying to be silly here.

And in all seriousness, let me say what a privilege it continues to be to do this show in New York. We’ve only got three more performances left. I hope you’ll come see.

All In The Fa-Mehle

jkvs-mehle-mehle.jpgHere I am seated next to Aileen Mehle. Behind us is Roger Mehle, Ms. Mehle’s son.

They appeared together on “What’s My Line?” on CBS on December 25, 1966. It was quite a surprise Christmas present to Ms. Mehle, aka Suzy Knickerbocker, who was on the panel that night, as Roger has been on a submarine for 2 1/2 months and wasn’t scheduled to return home. Behold the power of “What’s My Line?”.

Mr. Mehle was a guest on our show this week and we hope to have Ms. Mehle on our panel very soon.

Star Crossed

Whenever a celebrity Mystery Guest appears on “What’s My Line? - Live On Stage,” it’s an exciting moment for everybody.

People respond to excitement in different ways. Some, like comedian/writer/actor David Cross, become so overwhelmed by the experience that they become paralyzed with awe. And I have no choice but to respond in kind.

Or he could just be goofing around.

Great Minds At Play

It doesn’t take a mind-reader to know that I was absolutely thrilled to welcome these entertainment icons to our “What’s My Line?” production this week.

In addition to being perhaps the best American TV conversationalist of all time, Dick Cavett had some of the best panel moments in “What’s My Line?” history.

When Kreskin was on the panel, he of course was accused of “cheating” by using his “mind tricks.”

The only trickery that seemed to be at play on Monday night was how did the stars align to allow me to be in this photo?

When We Last Met…

On July 15, 1969, Tony Roberts was on the panel of “What’s My Line?” and Julia Meade was the Mystery Guest.

On April 7, 2008, Julia Meade was on the panel of “What’s My Line? - Live On Stage” and Tony Roberts was the Mystery Guest.

On 7/15/69, I was not alive. On 4/7/08, I was very much so. And very glad to be.

Definitely Moby

jkvsmoby.jpgWe are confident, Moby and me. Or at least we appear to be.

Sure, there’s artifice in showbiz, but websites need to be populated with images and text.

And who knows where it will end up? Maybe here. Or here!

I’ve Got No Secrets

jkvspalmer.jpgWelcome to jkeith.net –the official site of host & writer J. Keith van Straaten.

Are there any unofficial sites of J. Keith van Straaten? I should be so lucky. Please, someone try to make unauthorized use of my likeness. I’d get a kick out of it.

Meanwhile, check out the latest on my blog. And if you’re in New York, or know someone who is, make sure to check out my “What’s My Line? - Live On Stage” show. You might see me cozy up to the likes of Betsy Palmer (regular panelist on “I”ve Got a Secret”).

Thinking of You

jkvsthinking.jpgThanks for visiting the new-ish jkeith.net!

We’re making improvements and tweaks already! Check out the new mailing list form and new videos now available.

I’m putting together updates for the new run of “What’s My Line? - Live On Stage” in New York too. Check out that website too

More news to come!

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