10. Blockbusters (1983)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKhnVvHWJ3A Are you surprised? Seriously? If you're looking at this inclusion on the countdown and DON'T know the Blockbuster's theme tune then I'm sorry to say it's been a deprived life you've led. However, I am extremely pleased to be the person with the honour of introducing you to one of the finest theme tunes you're ever likely to hear. I'm really not sure whether the UK video chain Blockbusters named their franchise after this show (the first Blockbuster LLC stores opened in Texas in 1985 so that's probably not very likely) but regardless this was an insanely popular show that quite literally brought families together. Hosted by veteran actor the late Bob Holness (the first man to play James Bond, don't you know) this show usually pitted two individuals against a single opponent in a quiz show not unlike tic tac toe where the objective was for players to cross the board with right answers. But you don't really care about the rules, not with such classic moments as "I'd like a P please Bob" and the fact that the BBC Proms once played this theme tune live on television and in honor at the Royal Albert Hall! Blockbusters was relaunched by Challenge after somewhat of a hiatus, with Simon Mayo as presenter, although it's unclear (at time of writing) whether the single season will ever have any more episodes. I'm only mentioning it because you might like to know I auditioned personally to be on the programme, thus attempting to fulfill a lifetime ambition, but was sorely unsuccessful in gaining a spot. I'm not saying that's why the programme didn't catch on, but let's face it, can't have helped them.
Wayne Madden
Contributor
First studied Journalism in Ireland in 2003, returning to Sunderland University on the tenth anniversary of my first studies in the subject to continue towards an MA. Interested in all sorts including WWE, Music, Film, TV and Games. Has travelled around a bit to places like California, Ontario and Mexico and plans to do more of the same soon again.
Recently I've been writing pieces on my favourite topics which have included obscure theme music from nostalgic shows, Guns N' Roses and a few other surprises I'll be happy to share in time!
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Wayne