That Show With Joan Rivers

Joan Rivers is an American treasure taken too soon. "That Show with Joan Rivers" was her first foray into television hosting, which she'd go on to do until her very last days. Now you can see some of the most memorable episodes of this fun throwback. This is a pre-plastic surgery, PG-rated, but still utterly irreverent Joan. Plus, there's the added bonus of late 1960s nostalgia.

Who wouldn't want to watch Joan Rivers talking aerobics with Florence Henderson? Or Nudism with Johnny Carson? Or wallpaper with Soupy Sales? You get to see the eagerness and nervousness of a seasoned pro before she was a star. It's also fun to see a kitschy talk show with such an amusing premise. Joan chats with a celebrity du jour and a random lifestyle expert. The result is a rather unorthodox how-to with three unlikely conversation partners.

The DVD set doesn't include any bonus features. However, the set is one large bonus feature. The sheer vintage appeal is bonus enough. It's a great look at early television and the early career of one of television's most memorable and notable personalities. It's strange to see such a young Rivers but incredibly funny.

It's a little disappointing that the entire series isn't collected in this set. However, it probably focused on the most notable guest stars. It also is in pretty amazing quality, considering it's old television footage.

Fans of Rivers will enjoy seeing an important part of her personal history. It also offers some color to her career before her fallout with Carson and subsequent career ups and downs. It's refreshing to see the same irreverent host of "Fashion Police" completely toned down... well almost. Not only can Joan Rangers enjoy this series, but so can anyone with 1960s nostalgia.

"That Show With Joan Rivers" Box Set
DVD
$19.98
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