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Today, it’s hip to be gay, or at least gay friendly, Hirsch confesses. “When I was a kid, I grew up watching the Hollywood squares. I loved Paul Lynde. Not knowing I was gay myself, I loved him.” So did most of America.

And if there’s money to be made by “gaying up” the old game shows, you’ll see a lot more programming in that area, confirms Hirsch. The network that is financing Hirsch’s project has expressed its desire to “move forward quickly” if the concept works. But ironically, it doesn’t want to publicize the show at this point. And to a certain degree, neither does Hirsch. After all, who would want to be stalked by every fame-struck gay guy in Hollywood?

“We’re looking for distinctively different types of personalities,” says Hirsch. “That’s what’s going to drive the show, the guys on the panel. They can be unknown, or they might be from other reality TV shows, maybe even some from cable access and local shows.”

Hirsch credits his casting abilities to having a “good eye” for people, instilling trust in his auditioners, and knowing the different types of personalities needed to make a show successful.

“For instance, if I’m casting a show like Average Joe, I’m looking for people who are big, fun, life-of-the-party kind of guys,” he explains. “If I’m casting a show like the Fifth Wheel or Blind Date, I’ll need outgoing people who like to date.”

For the typical reality show, contestant types usually fall into three areas: the intellectual, the comedian or the hunk. But for the new, queer-infused game show, Hirsch is looking for every type under (and over) the rainbow, so Hirsch held auditions for his To Tell The Truth-like show, with over 100 would-be “Wayland and Madames” attending.

“We got a great response,” Hirsch reports. “We heard from transgendered, transsexuals, transvestites, drag queens, masculine gay guys, and flamboyant gay guys. It was a great cross mix of homosexuals, so I’m thrilled.” Hirsch explained that it’s actually smart if those auditioning can be “labeled” as a certain type, so even the self-confessed “gay Kitty Carlisle” who auditioned stands a chance at being cast.

Given the new show’s time slot--late night, Monday through Friday--Hirsch believes there will be lots of room for fun. “While this show isn’t going to get as wacky as The Gong Show, certainly there will be elements of improvisation, campiness and even a little craziness,” says Hirsch.

“With four gay guys on the panel, you’ll never know what’s going to fly out of their mouths.”

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