Art Fein’s Poker Party, which debuted in 1984 as Lil Art’s Poker Party, was a beloved television show that ran for an impressive 24 years. This long-running program was a staple in the world of poker and entertainment, captivating audiences with its unique blend of poker, music, and comedy.
The brainchild of Art Fein, a well-known radio and television personality, Lil Art’s Poker Party first aired on KDOC-TV in Los Angeles. The show quickly gained a loyal following, thanks to its entertaining format and Fein’s charismatic hosting style. As the show’s popularity grew, it was renamed Art Fein’s Poker Party and was syndicated to various television stations across the country.
The premise of the show was simple yet effective – a group of poker players would gather around a table to play a game of Texas Hold’em, while Fein provided commentary and engaged in witty banter with the players. The show’s format was unique in that it combined the excitement of poker with the entertainment value of a talk show. This winning combination made Art Fein’s Poker Party a hit with viewers of all ages.
One of the highlights of the show was the diverse group of players that Fein would invite to the table. From professional poker players to celebrities and musicians, the show featured a wide range of guests, making each episode a unique and entertaining experience. Some of the notable guests who appeared on the show include poker legends Doyle Brunson and Phil Hellmuth, as well as musicians like Slash from Guns N’ Roses and Billy Gibbons from ZZ Top.
Aside from the poker action, the show also featured live musical performances from some of the biggest names in the music industry. From blues and rock to country and jazz, Art Fein’s Poker Party had something for everyone. The show’s musical guests included legends like B.B. King, Johnny Cash, and Willie Nelson, as well as up-and-coming artists such as Sheryl Crow and Lenny Kravitz.
What made Art Fein’s Poker Party stand out from other poker shows was its laid-back and fun atmosphere. Fein’s easygoing personality and quick wit made the show feel like a gathering of friends, rather than a high-stakes poker game. This welcoming vibe was also reflected in the show’s set, which was designed to resemble a cozy living room rather than a traditional poker table.
Over the years, Art Fein’s Poker Party became a cultural phenomenon, attracting a dedicated fan base and earning critical acclaim. The show was nominated for multiple Emmy Awards and won the prestigious Telly Award for excellence in television programming. It also received praise from poker experts and celebrities alike, with actor and poker enthusiast Ben Affleck calling it “the best poker show on TV.”
Sadly, in 2008, Art Fein’s Poker Party came to an end after 24 successful years on the air. Fein, who was in his 70s at the time, decided to retire from television and focus on his radio show and other projects. The news of the show’s cancellation was met with disappointment from fans and players alike, who had grown to love the show and its host.
However, the legacy of Art Fein’s Poker Party lives on, with reruns of the show still being aired on various television stations and online platforms. The show also inspired other poker-themed programs, but none could match the charm and success of Art Fein’s Poker Party.
In conclusion, Art Fein’s Poker Party was more than just a television show – it was a cultural phenomenon that brought together the worlds of poker, music, and entertainment. For 24 years, it entertained and captivated audiences, leaving a lasting impact on the world of poker and television. And although the show may have ended, its legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of its fans and the memories of those who were lucky enough to be a part of it.
