it's tough to follow a legend...
Some observations about the "DREW Price is Right" (remember, the 1972 revival with Bob Barker was called "The NEW Price is Right!"):
Drew Carey had every reason to be jumpy the first couple of shows, since he was following a legend of 35 years on "TPIR" and 50 years of game shows in general. Drew injured his left hand on the set during rehearsals for the new show and that's why he seemed a bit stiff during the first few shows (in fact I have heard the first broadcast actually aired was the seventh show taped).
I notice he calls every contestant "buddy," regardless of gender, but that no doubt will change as he relaxes...
The music is pretty much the same, but it has been apparently been re-recorded to add more percussion. It's particularly noticeable in the opening and when a new contestant "comes on down"; at some points it sounds like a drumline as the drummer really comes on strong (leave it to a drummer to notice it!). I also notice some new music, particularly heavy on conga drums, but they add a couple new pieces of music every year.
Considering that Edd Kalehoff composed the original theme for "TPIR" in 1972, I'd say it's held up very well through the years; some of the 1972-style music is still used as Rich Fields describes the prizes.
I notice that they don't go into much detail on small prizes or grocery items. The model holding the can of Campbell's Cream of Mushroom Soup is introduced not with "a can of Campbell's Cream of Mushroom Soup...Campbell's M-M-Good Possibilities," but rather "cream of mushroom soup...good for lunch or in your favorite recipes."
And finally!...I notice that Rich Fields pops onto the set after making his closing announcement and mugs with the Showcase winner much as Rod Roddy used to.
I think "TPIR" will continue, but it might not be the phenomenon it was with Bob Barker...
