Battle of the Network Stars

Back in 1976, long before Dancing with the Stars, there was a competition on TV unlike any other.  It was Battle of the Network Stars.  It was a show that  all the network TV stars from ABC, NBC and CBS were pitted against each other while they competed  in a series of physical challenges.  The stars from each network would form a team and there would be a captain of each team.  The show was hosted by Howard Cosell, and he provided his famous psuedo-serious commentary.  It ran every 6 months up until 1985.  Gabe Kaplan of Welcome Back Kotter, was the ABC team captain for most of the 70s.  In 1988, Battle was brought back for one last hurrah, but I don't think it fared too well because it disappeared forever after that.

My favorite part of the show was toward the end, where the two top contending teams would compete in a giant tug o' war.  It was always great fun to watch.  

Below are some great clips from the show.  Enjoy this blast from the past!