This was a wonderfully done memoir and enjoyed the concept of this book. I was invested in what Bruce Vilanch wrote this and was engaged the whole thing. It was written well and was invested in what was going on. I appreciated getting to read this book and hope Bruce Vilanch writes more as this was really well done.

Bruce Vilanch’s It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time is a rollicking, unfiltered journey through a career spent in the chaotic, glittering world of Hollywood comedy writing. For decades, Vilanch has been the go-to scribe for award shows, variety specials, sitcoms, and some of the most notorious trainwrecks in television history. His book serves as both a confession and a celebration of the risks taken in the name of entertainment, and for those who have ever wondered, “How did this ever get made?” Vilanch provides the long-awaited answers—with a hefty dose of self-deprecating wit and behind-the-scenes gossip.

From the outset, Vilanch embraces his reputation as both a comedy genius and an inadvertent architect of legendary television disasters. His career spans a surreal spectrum, from writing for Bette Midler and Billy Crystal to crafting infamous cultural relics like The Star Wars Holiday Special and The Brady Bunch Variety Hour. He owns up to these projects with a mix of nostalgia, incredulity, and bemusement. What sets this memoir apart is that Vilanch doesn’t attempt to excuse his involvement in these fiascos; instead, he explains the bizarre logic, industry politics, and sheer optimism that allowed them to happen in the first place.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its insider perspective on the entertainment industry’s often-misguided decision-making. Vilanch gives readers a front-row seat to the absurdity of Hollywood’s creative process, where executives with little understanding of comedy make crucial artistic decisions and where performers are sometimes thrown into projects that are doomed from the start. The now-infamous Star Wars Holiday Special—a bizarre, nearly unwatchable variety show set in the Star Wars universe—is a prime example. Vilanch describes how George Lucas, hoping to keep the Star Wars brand in the public eye between films, handed creative control over to network television producers who had no grasp of the franchise’s appeal. The result? A bizarre blend of Wookiee family drama, musical numbers, and offbeat comedy sketches that baffled audiences and embarrassed nearly everyone involved. Yet, as Vilanch recounts, it seemed like a good idea at the time—at least to someone.

Another highlight of the book is Vilanch’s recollection of The Paul Lynde Halloween Special, an over-the-top, camp-laden spectacle featuring appearances from KISS, Margaret Hamilton, and Florence Henderson. The special, which aired in 1976, was intended as a showcase for Paul Lynde’s unique comedic talents but instead became a surreal fever dream that defied explanation. Vilanch recalls the chaotic production process and the bewildered reactions from audiences, acknowledging that while the special was a critical disaster, it has since gained a cult following.

Vilanch also takes readers behind the curtain of the Academy Awards, where he has been a lead writer for decades. His stories about crafting jokes for the biggest names in Hollywood are both hilarious and insightful, revealing the delicate balance of humor, diplomacy, and ego management required to pull off a successful awards show. He discusses the infamous 1989 Oscars opening number featuring Rob Lowe dancing with Snow White—a moment so universally derided that it effectively ended the career of the show’s producer. Vilanch explains how the segment, originally envisioned as a whimsical tribute to classic Hollywood, quickly spiraled into an awkward, misguided disaster that left audiences cringing.

While much of the book focuses on Vilanch’s misfires, it also highlights his many successes and his deep love for comedy as an art form. He shares stories about his collaborations with icons like Robin Williams, Whoopi Goldberg, and Lily Tomlin, illustrating the joy and unpredictability of working with some of the greatest comedic minds of all time. He also shines a light on lesser-known performers and writers who never got the recognition they deserved, reminding readers that show business is filled with unsung talent whose contributions often go unnoticed.

Beyond the humor and Hollywood horror stories, It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time is also a reflection on the nature of failure in creative industries. Vilanch embraces the idea that not every project will be a hit and that even the most seasoned professionals can end up in spectacular flops. His ability to laugh at his own missteps—and to recognize the accidental brilliance in some of them—is part of what makes this book so entertaining and endearing.

For comedy fans, television buffs, and lovers of Hollywood lore, It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time is a must-read. It’s a reminder that for every award-winning special, there’s an equally outrageous disaster lurking in the archives, waiting to be rediscovered and appreciated for all the wrong reasons. Through it all, Vilanch remains an affable, self-aware guide, inviting readers to revel in both the highs and lows of his unforgettable career. After all, as he reminds us, in show business, even the worst ideas can make for the best stories.

It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time will be available on 3/4

All credit to Bruce Vilanch, a veteran writer of TV, film, and the stage, for writing a dishy memoir exclusively about famous disasters with which he has been involved. His credits include the infamous Star Wars Holiday Special, the “Snow White” Academy Awards, and the abysmal Village People musical Can’t Stop the Music. Throughout the book, Vilanch hilariously relays how these calamities came to be while constantly reminding the reader that they weren’t made with internet immortality in mind. There’s some occasional, highly-warranted tetchiness about “keyboard warriors” keeping these trainwrecks alive when they were supposed to be forgotten after your Friday night ended. Vilanch is compassionate toward his collaborators on these follies while keeping the laughs coming, and I for one appreciated learning the difference between writing for a variety show and a variety special. He really should pen a follow-up about the things he did that went right. He's been around long enough to have his share of successes, too.

Thanks to NetGalley and IPG/Chicago Review Press for the digital copy of this book; I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This book is such a Boomer/Gen X flashback, it’s not funny. But it is funny. Bruce Vilanch has been part of some of the worst TV specials of the last half of the 20th century. However, the way he wrote this book seems like he’s trying to hit a younger audience. He does lots of name dropping of celebrities, then has footnotes explaining who they are, like Jack Benny, The Smothers Brothers, Frank Sinatra and more. My generation and older already know who these people were.

Bruce’s pedigree is impressive: writing for 25 Academy Awards telecasts, the Tonys, Emmys, Grammys, People’s Choice, American Comedy Awards, TV Land Awards, SAG Awards, and more. Yet, he chose to write about his greatest professional failures, which I have to give him credit for. I’ve never seen the Star Wars Holiday Special, but it has gone down in infamy as one of the worst things on television. Or, do you remember Rob Lowe and Snow White parading around during the 1989 Oscars? Vilanch was a part of those broadcasts and more.

The book is written like a stream of consciousness fever dream, with asides and footnotes along the way. There are mentions of so many celebrities and so many weird shows that were put on the air, like Battle for the Network Stars (which I loved at the time). I really appreciated the self-deprecating humor that Vilanch offers, fully owning up to his involvement in some absolute horrible television.

If you loved 1970s and 1980s television in the United States, I highly suggest you check out this book.

Brings back a lot of memories. Very cute book.
Thanks to author, publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book. While I got the book for free it had no bearing on the rating I gave it.

I’ve heard interviews with Vilanch about some of his lesser works, so this is a fine idea for a book, going over some of the more infamous train wrecks he was a part of.

But the book to me kind of fell flat. It seems aimed at a much younger audience who 1) have never seen any of the shows he writes about, and 2) have never heard of any Hollywood star who was born before they were. On the latter point, he feels the need to explain, in the text and in frequent footnotes, who the people are he’s referring to. And if you don’t know who Harvey Korman, Paul Lynde or Eartha Kitt are, then what are you doing reading this book? On the former point, most of what he does in the book is merely summarize the shows. I’ve seen a lot of the shows he writes about - and anyone who hasn’t, can easily find them on YouTube - so plot summaries don’t add much to our understanding of “what were they thinking?” and “how did this ever get made?”

For these infamous misfires, Vilanch offers few excuses, few explanations, and few behind-the-scenes insights other than “(shrug) it was the 70’s (or 80’s).” With only three networks and a much less-discerning audience, there was a lot of schlock on TV at the time. I remember watching a lot of schlock growing up simply because that’s what was on.

The book opens with The Star Wars Holiday Special, which I’ve seen, and have read a bit about, so I didn’t really learn anything from the origin story or the plot summary. From there, it’s on to the Paul Lynde Halloween Special and the Brady Bunch Variety Hour, both of which I almost hate to admit I’ve also seen, and also didn’t really learn anything new by reading Vilanch’s take. At this point, I skimmed or skipped past everything else until the 1989 Oscars and the infamous Rob Lowe/Snow White opening, which I’ve also seen, and have read about, so once again there wasn’t much new here. Whenever there are different explanations about what happened and why, Vilanch doesn’t seem to research to find the truth, he just offers his own understanding of what happened from his perspective.

So the book feels a little dashed-off, like he simply re-watched his most infamous shows and then dictated a summary of each. It’s an easy, breezy read (at least the parts I read), but if you’re familiar with the shows he writes about, I don’t think there’s much new here for you, and if you’re not familiar with any of the shows (or the people) he writes about, then I’m not sure why you’d even read this? Another reviewer said it best - when it comes to this book, it’s a lot like the shows themselves: “goofy, silly, quirky…” but “not particularly entertaining.”

Thank you to NetGalley and IPG for an advance copy of this book!

I think I grew up hearing his name, but I don't think I knew much about who Bruce Vilanch was. I really appreciated this book and the insight into his career, and how much he has touched the different pieces of pop culture that all of us have consumed over the decades.

A Hilarious Trip Down Memory Lane with Bruce Vilanch

What a delightful read! It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time by writer, performer, and all-around humorist Bruce Vilanch is a laugh-out-loud journey through the more infamous moments of showbiz history.

Vilanch, a truly funny and gifted storyteller, revisits projects that became legendary for all the wrong reasons. From the Star Wars Holiday Special to the Paul Lynde Halloween Special—and even a film starring the Village People—he shares behind-the-scenes anecdotes with wit and self-awareness, embracing the chaos that made these productions both notorious and beloved.

Peppered with autobiographical details, the book allows readers to see these memories through Vilanch’s sharp and comedic lens. He also provides helpful context for those unfamiliar with the stars and events of the era, ensuring that readers of all generations can appreciate the absurdity and charm of his tales.

Now that I’ve seen what a fantastic storyteller Vilanch is, I can only hope this book is the first of many. In a world where anger and cynicism often dominate, It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time is a much-needed antidote—delivering pure joy and plenty of laughs.

I received an e-copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, and I’m happy to say it exceeded my expectations. Highly recommended!

Thank you #Netgalley for the advanced copy!

Many interesting stories about his experiences in entertainment, both good and bad. Also learned a lot about what happens behind the scenes of things getting made. Crazy to think about where we are now and all that Bruce did to get us here.

Below is my review for this book which I have published on Goodreads at https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1227819-ammon

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If you were a fan of Hollywood Squares during its 1998–2002 run, you probably remember Bruce Villanch. He was usually in the square adjacent to Whoopi Goldberg, and resembled a large Muppet or a real-life, bearded H.R. Pufnstuff (fitting, given his work with Pufnstuf creators Sid & Marty Krofft). Even if you don’t recall him—or weren’t around then—you’ve likely encountered his comedy writing in countless TV specials, award shows, and beyond.

Over his decades-long career, Villanch has become a go-to comedy writer, earning numerous accolades for his work. His book, It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time (which I’ll refer to as Bad Idea), offers an entertaining behind-the-scenes look at some of the most notoriously ill-conceived projects he worked on.

As a fan of Steve Kozak’s A Disturbance in the Force (both the book and documentary), I was particularly eager to read Villanch’s take on the infamous Star Wars Holiday Special. He did not disappoint. Villanch openly acknowledges how bad some of these shows were and even expresses surprise that they were greenlit. Yet, his tone is never mean-spirited or snarky. Instead, he conveys a sense of fondness and nostalgia for even the most misguided productions—a sentiment that’s contagious for readers.

The book is peppered with photos of Villanch alongside fellow writers and celebrities from his career. While I enjoyed these glimpses into his world, I found myself wishing there were more.

Bad Idea is a delightful read. Villanch’s storytelling shines, and his voice is so distinct that I could almost hear him narrating as I read on my Kindle (the inevitable audiobook version of Bad Idea would be great assuming Villanch narrates). The book delivers exactly what I hoped for: plenty of humor, witty anecdotes, and name-dropping of A-list to D-list celebrities. If you enjoy celebrity memoirs, humorist essays, or behind-the-scenes tales from Hollywood, this book will not disappoint.

One note: the version I read contained formatting errors that I assume will be corrected before publication. Thankfully, these did not detract from my enjoyment of Bad Idea.

Disclaimer: I received a free advanced reader copy (ARC) of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. This review reflects my personal and independent opinion

*It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time* by Bruce Vilanch is a delightful and often hilarious memoir that offers an inside look at the world of show business through the eyes of one of its most beloved comedy writers. Vilanch, known for his work on *The Oscars* and for writing jokes for a who's who of Hollywood stars, brings his trademark wit and charm to every page. The book is filled with behind-the-scenes anecdotes that reveal the often absurd nature of the entertainment industry, from writing for B-list celebrities to working with megastars like Robin Williams and Bette Midler.

The memoir feels conversational, as if Vilanch is sitting across from you, telling stories over a drink. He doesn’t shy away from pointing out the ridiculousness of many situations he’s found himself in, yet there's an underlying respect for the people and experiences that have shaped his career. His humor is self-deprecating and sharp, often skewering Hollywood's eccentricities with the kind of honesty only a seasoned insider could provide.

While some may wish for more substance, it’s hard not to enjoy the rollercoaster ride of bizarre situations and big personalities. Ultimately, it’s a thoroughly entertaining read.

4.4 stars.

Hollywood’s go to awards show writer tells tales of some of the worst projects he has written for, including a Brady Bunch variety show which I vaguely remember watching (it had synchronized swimmers!). There was also a Paul Lynde show which, I’m not going to lie to you, now sounds like one of the most FANTABULOUS TV shows ever produced. First, it stars the great Paul Lynde. And as if that weren’t enough, Tim Conway! Harvey Kerman! Florence Henderson! A Halloween disco scene! KISS! _KISS_, people! Just the description alone made me fall in love with this show and I must find it on You Tube, or somewhere, please, little baby Jesus, make my dreams come true!

What else? “Can’t Stop the Music” a.k.a. the Village People movie. And loads more. Fun for those of a certain age who don’t need the footnotes to know exactly who all these people are. As Vilanch says, “If you don’t know MOMMIE DEAREST, the memoir of Joan Crawford’s daughter, Christina, I can’t believe you’re reading this book!” And you and I probably can’t be friends. I loved it!

Bruce Vilanch is a funny writer and storyteller. This book focuses on all of his flops or mistakes through the years in Show Business with some hilariously ridiculous shows -- Star Wars Christmas Special, Brady Bunch special, etc. Because this book was focused on the mistakes, I guess I did not find it as funny as I hoped given his talent. For me the book kind of dragged in spots but loved some of the anecdotes.

Thank you to Netgalley and IPG | Chicago Review Press for an ARC and I voluntarily left this review.

Bruce Vilanch has been bringing laughs for many years. This book continues his record of making me burst with laughter.

"It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time" is a collection of behind-the-scenes stories from some of the less fantastic projects he's been involved in, but that doesn't stop the very funny moments that made me stop reading this at night in bed, for fear of waking my spouse! Needless to say, he has a great sense of humor and a way with words.

If you're into movies, television and stage, stories of the people and work who make them a reality, and, more to the point, stories of some of the ideas what may have made you scratch your head when they showed up years ago, you'll enjoy this book. Also, if you like to laugh!

This was a fun book, an easy read, and one I'm glad I took the time to enjoy!

An excellent read for any and all readers! Author comes at you with both barrels and knocks you out of your shoes! Great job fleshing out all the characters. I give this book FIVE stars! Definitely recommend!

I love this book. Funny well written insightful and loaded with show biz stuff. Ive seen at one time or another all the shows/movies that Vilanch claims are bad and they are but that’s what makes them so much fun. This book is fun to read and if you have any interest in a funny look at bad show biz stuff written by someone who knows-get this book. And its a quick read to boot!

There's no denying that two-time Emmy Award-winner Bruce Vilanch is a funny man. Known to many for his four-year stint on Hollywood Squares and to others for the documentary "Get Bruce!" that chronicled his unique life, Vilanch is a go-to writer who has written material for the Emmy Awards, Tony Awards, Grammy Awards, and the Academy Awards in addition to songs for the likes of the Village People and Eartha Kitt among others.

And there's a whole lot more.

"It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time" isn't really about any of that.

Instead, this is a book about the other writing he's done. We're talking about icons of awfulness like "The Star Wars Holiday Special," The Paul Lynde Halloween Special," The Brady Bunch Variety Hour, and a certain infamous Academy Awards ceremony that found Rob Lowe dancing with Snow White not long before a certain sex tape came out.

A memoir of sorts, "It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time" is Vilanch's journey through his decades of working in show business and those well-publicized, impossible to forget mistakes he's made along the way.

Each chapter here serves up cringe-worthy memories from shows that have made us all ask "How did this get made?" Vilanch tells us how.

The now 77-year-old Vilanch is occasionally funny, occasionally insightful, occasionally a little poignant, and pretty much always self-deprecating here. I will admit I didn't laugh nearly as much as I'd hoped for here - an experience not far removed from that Brady Bunch Variety Hour that was goofy, silly, quirky, and not particularly entertaining.

However, for those who appreciate inside views of the inner workings of Hollywood, "It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time" may very well be worth checking out with one of the industry's most beloved comedy writers laying it all out and choosing to laugh about it.

IPG/Chicago Review Press provided an early galley for review.

As a child of the 70's, I grew up in the twilight of the variety show era. Back when we only had three networks, if something special was airing I would know about it (and not just because I had a subscription to TV Guide). So, I remember watching so many of these productions on which Vilanch worked as they aired for the very first time. Were they cheesy? Sure. But then again, I have always been a a fan of cheesy goodness and fun in my entertainment.

Vilanch is great at his comedy craft with a very comfortable, conversational approach to telling the reader about the making of these "masterpieces" (I found them all enjoyable). I found myself laughing out loud so many times as I read this book. His turn-of-the-phrase and colorful analogies are so good. I also too like the footnotes about famous people and shows that will be very useful for younger fans who discovered his productions online and very entertaining for those of us old enough to know exactly who or what he is referring to. There is something for everyone here.