Tina Louise Was Only Ginger On `Gilligan'
Q: I am trying to settle a dispute between myself and a few co-workers. I am almost positive there was another actress who played Ginger on "Gilligan's Island," at least for a few episodes in the later years. I've even contacted the president of the Gilligan's Island Fan Club, who says there was only one Ginger. I just don't believe it. What do you think?
A: Our research shows Tina Louise was the one and only Ginger Grant during the show's 1964-67 run. However, when the gang reunited in 1978 for "Rescue from Gilligan's Island," the first of three TV reunion specials, Louise declined to sign on. Actress Judith Baldwin jumped on board as Ginger. Constance Forslund subbed as Ginger in 1981's "Harlem Globetrotters on Gilligan's Island."
Q: My family enjoyed watching "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" but we absolutely hated Regis Philbin as the host. Does he have to return with the show in November?
A: The 10-night game show was the biggest ratings hit of the summer and it's not likely ABC will mess with success. Look for "Reege" to return as "Millionaire" host when the show begins another round during November sweeps.
Q: I am a devoted "Anne of Green Gables" fan. When I was in Canada last summer I heard they were filming a third installment of the story. Is it going to be on American television?
A: Megan Follows and Jonathan Crombie have reprised their roles as Anne Shirley and Jonathan Crombie in "Anne of Green Gables: The Continuing Story." The miniseries, set against a World War I backdrop, will debut on Canadian television this fall. American audiences will see it on PBS at a later date, undetermined at this point. PBS is also developing an animated "Anne of Green Gables" children's series.
Q: I have a question, big ego at stake. Who started the phrase "Here Comes the Judge"? Sammy Davis Jr. on "Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In" or Flip Wilson on the "Flip Wilson Show"?
A: Sammy Davis Jr. made the line part of 1960s pop culture, but it was the trademark catch phrase of veteran comic Dewey "Pigmeat" Markham. Markham had a top-20 hit with his "Here Comes the Judge" novelty recording in 1968.
Q: Are there any plans to rebroadcast the movie "Joan of Arc" that aired in the spring? I missed Part 1.
A: No rebroadcast date has been announced. However the miniseries is for sale on home video for a limited time ($29.98 plus $4.95 shipping and handling). Call 888-227-7999.
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