In 1997, MTV premiered a truly unique variety show called Oddville, MTV, starring Rich Brown. The show, which first aired on June 16, was a spin-off of the popular New York City public-access series Beyond Vaudeville, also hosted by Brown from 1987 to 1996. Just like its predecessor, Oddville embraced an eccentric, offbeat style, featuring quirky guests and performances that kept viewers guessing what would happen next.
One of the show’s most memorable aspects was its cast of characters. Rich Brown played the lovable, oddball host Frank Hope, accompanied by silent co-host David, portrayed by David Greene, and Melissa Gabriel, who served as the announcer. The series also brought back fan-favorite puppets and Joey the Dancing Monkey, who appeared during musical segments with a fresh new look.
The guest lineup on Oddville was as bizarre as it was entertaining. For example, one episode featured a performer named Ian McGrady, who amazed the audience by throwing grapes into the ceiling and catching them in his mouth. In another, a “human carpet” read a manifesto explaining his need to be vacuumed, then stretched out on the floor while an assistant vacuumed him—just one of many bizarre acts that became synonymous with the show.
