Monday, October 5, 2015

Horror Host 2015 Retrospective: Bob Wilkins

Real name:Bob Wilkins
Years active: 1966-1984

 One of the most notable hosts to come out of California, Bob Wilkins proved to be so notable that several hosts were outright dropped in favor of his program.

 Starting in the late 1960's on KCRA Channel 3 in Stockton, CA, Bob's 7 Arts Theater proved such a ratings smash that Sacramento station KXTL Channel 40 picked him up and gave him the Bob Wilkins Horror Show. 

Creature Features, however, would be his main mark. Airing also on KTVU, Channel 2 in Oakland and San Fransisco, Wilkins acted not only as host but also writer and producer. Hosting not as a vampire or mad doctor; although he did don the mantle of Captain Cosmic for another show specializing in Godzilla films, Wilkins was simply himself. Dry, sardonic, and with a good cigar to showcase some great and sometimes not so great films. Very low key, with an emphasis on the film and the guests, Wilkins set the tone for many future hosts. 

 In 1979, Wilkins added John Stanley as his co-host and eventual replacement, but his is a tale for another day.

http://myweb.wvnet.edu/e-gor/tvhorrorhosts/grafix/bobwilkins2.jpg
Bob Wilkins, from E-Gor's Chamber of TV Horror Hosts
 Bob Wilkins passed away on January 7th, 2009.

 His website is available here



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