Key Takeaways:
- "New Orleans Nite People" was a late-night TV show that aired on WGNO from 1968-70 and was briefly revived in 1987.
- The show was known for its eclectic cast of characters, including Ruthie the Duck Girl and Harry the Singing Mailman, and was often criticized for its shock value.
- The show underwent a tonal shift when Dave Wagenvoord took over as host and dedicated more airtime to sponsors.
- "Late Nite New Orleans" was a separate show that was announced in 1992 as a joint project between WTIX and WLAE, but was ultimately canceled due to delays and lack of funding.
- Both shows have largely disappeared from the collective consciousness, but memories of the programming live on.
Introduction to New Orleans Nite People
The city of New Orleans has a long history of embracing eccentric personalities and showcasing them on local television. One such show that comes to mind is "New Orleans Nite People," a late-night program that aired on WGNO from 1968-70. The show was created by local DJ "Captain Humble," also known as Hugh Dillard, who envisioned a local spin on the classic "Tonight Show" formula. The program featured a cast of colorful characters, including Ruthie the Duck Girl, Harry the Singing Mailman, and Ding Dong the Singing Bird, which elicited strong reactions from the viewing public.
The Show’s Content and Reception
"New Orleans Nite People" was known for its eclectic and often bizarre content, which was not always well-received by audiences. David Cuthbert, a longtime New Orleans reporter and former writer for The Times-Picayune, recalled that the show involved an "ever-changing array of people yearning to be thought of as New Orleans ‘characters,’ whose entertainment value was nil." The show was also accused of mining for shock value, with one guest reportedly biting off a chicken’s head on air. Despite its mixed reception, the show developed a loyal following and became a staple of New Orleans’ late-night television scene.
Changes in the Show’s Format
The show underwent a significant tonal shift when Dave Wagenvoord, the then-station owner, took over as host. Wagenvoord dedicated more airtime to sponsors, such as water bed promoter Red Kagan, which changed the show’s dynamic. The show was eventually canceled shortly after the station was sold, with The Times-Picayune reporting that it was "deranged, disgusting, and discontinued." The show’s cancellation marked the end of an era for "New Orleans Nite People," but its legacy lived on in the memories of those who watched it.
The Search for Lost Footage
In the years following the show’s cancellation, former WGNO producer David Jones attempted to track down some of the show’s characters to include in a new weekly series. However, the search proved unsuccessful, and the show’s footage and memorabilia were largely lost to time. Jones noted that the involved parties had already left the station, and the show’s archives were not well-preserved. Despite the challenges, Jones’ efforts to revive the show’s spirit were a testament to the enduring appeal of "New Orleans Nite People."
The Rise and Fall of Late Nite New Orleans
In the 1990s, another show emerged that was alternately referred to as "Late Night New Orleans" and "Late Nite New Orleans." The show was announced as a joint project between radio station WTIX and WLAE, with DJs Tony Ponseti and Jay Richards set to host the program. The show was meant to feature live musical acts broadcast from the Palm Court Cafe in the French Quarter, but it was ultimately canceled due to delays and lack of funding. The Times-Picayune termed the show a "dead issue," and it became one of WLAE’s biggest busts.
Legacy of the Shows
Despite their short-lived nature, both "New Orleans Nite People" and "Late Nite New Orleans" left a lasting impact on the city’s television landscape. The shows showcased the unique personalities and characters that make New Orleans so special, and their memories continue to be cherished by those who watched them. While the shows may be largely forgotten, their influence can still be seen in the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene. As the city continues to evolve and grow, it’s likely that new shows and programs will emerge that capture the spirit of "New Orleans Nite People" and "Late Nite New Orleans," keeping the city’s eccentric and eclectic personality alive for generations to come.
