Of all the ancient up-from-the-dead lame TV shows on cable today, why has this show not found a place? If every episode of "The New Steve Allen Show" were on DVD, I would buy it instantly. This show helped save my life.

I was wiped out by a blood disease at age 17 in the summer of '61 but every weeknight at 11 p.m. on WOR Channel Nine out of New York City came "The New Steve Allen Show." It was better than the earlier version on NBC, wilder and more unscripted, absolutely off the wall.

You could tell when Allen was a little tired or bored--then watch out. He was quick, very very quick. And he had one of the most infectious laughs I've ever heard. You hoped something would go wrong so he would crack up. When he began that high-pitched cackle, you had to laugh along with him.

Most of the old NBC gang was there, although Tom Poston is not listed in the credits. Steve's forays into the street to talk to passersby or perform some rather risky stunts were electric. Dave Letterman, Jay Leno, thank Mr. Allen. But it was Allen's wonderful way with words and comic subtlety that kept me watching.

As a talk show host, Allen was incomparable. Laughter does heal...when it flows from the comedy of Steve Allen. And it inspires--I later published a comic novel. Should have dedicated it to this man. I loved him and I miss him.