Fri Jan 17 01:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Hollywood Squares Returns to Primetime with a Modern Twist
**Los Angeles, CA** – A week behind schedule due to Southern California wildfires, the rebooted *Hollywood Squares* premiered on CBS. Executive produced by Drew Barrymore, who occupies the coveted center square, the show aims to recapture the charm of the original game show while adding a contemporary flair.
Nate Burleson of *CBS Mornings* and *The NFL Today* hosts the updated version, which retains the classic tic-tac-toe format. Two contestants compete, selecting from a panel of nine celebrities to answer questions. The celebrities, including stars like Tyra Banks, Tiffany Haddish, and Drew Carey, offer humorous answers, and contestants guess whether they agree or disagree. A successful guess earns a square, and three in a row leads to victory and a cash prize. A bonus round offers a chance at a $25,000 jackpot.
While staying true to the spirit of the original, the reboot features a modernized set and theme song. Burleson’s hosting style is described as more flamboyant than predecessors like Peter Marshall, but engaging nonetheless. The review notes some pacing issues in the first episode, with a surplus of celebrity banter delaying gameplay. Subsequent episodes appeared to address this.
Barrymore’s presence, however, attracts A-list talent, ensuring plenty of laughs. The show incorporates some risqué humor, but nothing overly offensive.
The review concludes that despite minor pacing inconsistencies, *Hollywood Squares* is a successful revival, delivering the same cocktail party atmosphere as its predecessors, updated for a 2025 audience. The reviewer recommends streaming the show.
First Piper 