I found this article (dated August 26, 1998) on the website for WBZ-TV in Boston, Massachusetts, where, coincidentally, host Tom Bergeron was a mainstay for several years in the 1980s. The article explains the hype surrounding the new "Squares" before its September 14 debut. This is also featured in the 1998-1999 season press kit. Have a look!
From the WBZ-TV website
Article dated 8/26/98. Found 10/19/98
With multi-talented, Academy-Award winning actress Whoopi Goldberg occupying the "Center Square" and the entertainment world's most enduring and rising stars surrounding her, the new, hip version of "Hollywood Squares", co-produced by King World Productions Inc. and Columbia-Tristar Television, premieres on September 14. Hosted by Tom Bergeron, "Hollywood Squares" promises to not only preserve the classic elements of the beloved original, but also to elevate the game into a realm of a star-studded entertainment comedy show.
Whoopi Goldberg, embraced by both audiences and critics for her award-winning performances in "Ghost" and "The Color Purple", many acclaimed comedy specials, and hosting the Academy Awards, is looking forward to bringing to the show her "raw, witty side" and also booking many celebrities in her role as executive producer. "Folks have been really receptive," said Goldberg. "They're coming in with the support of the best comedy writers in the business and I think we'll be surprised to see some other people's raw, witty sides on "Squares". We want evreybody to come play-super mega stars, little bitty stars, sports stars, all kinds of music people from country to rap, newsmakers, divas, divas-in-training, legends and stars of tomorrow. We're hoping that some of them will become part of our family and play with us whenever they can". Host Tom Bergeron, the former "Fox After Breakfast" host and recent "Good Morning America" guest anchor was, like Goldberg, attracted to "Hollywood Squares" by the enthusiasm and professionalism of those involved. "The people behind this series--like the acclaimed Moffitt/Lee production duo and renowned comedy writer Bruce Vilanch--are passionate, creative professionals committed to producing a show that viewers will find entertaining, we'll be proud of, and, with any luck, will put my kids through college," joked Bergeron.
With a host of marquee names such as Rosie O'Donnell, Garth Brooks and Whitney Houston already slated to appear, producers will assemble an eclectic and often surprising collection of personalities from entertainment, music, sports and politics for every show. Other stars such as Keith Hernandez, Mark McEwen, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Caroline Rhea, Kathy Najimy, Tyra Banks, David Crosby, Dr. Drew & Adam, David Chappelle, Fran Drescher, Arsenio Hall, Penn & Teller, Luke Perry, Quincy Jones, Paul Shaffer, Jeffrey Tambor and political personality James Carville have also signed on to play.
Also distinguishing the new "Hollywood Squares" is the committment of King World to donate one million dollars to various charities during its first season by having select celebrities play for their favorite causes. Goldberg is proud that she and other celebrity players will have the chance to provide awareness and funds for the charities near and dear to them. Another incentive to appear on "Hollywood Squares" is that the show will be unmatched as an ongoing promotional vehicle. "There's nowhere else on television where an actor can promote a film for five straight days without flying all over the country and reach an estimated 30 million homes," said Goldberg.
The fundamentals of "Hollywood Squares" remains loyal to the original, which first permiered in 1966 and ran for 14 consecutive years. Two contestants decide if their chosen star's answer to a question is real or if the star is bluffing. The contestant's goal is to get three stars in a row, symbolized by X's and O's, in the classic tic-tac-toe square grid.
"Whoopi Goldberg's enormous talent and comedic genius combined with Tom Bergeron's quick wit and affable personality will make 'Hollywood Squares' the hippest and funniest show on television," stated Michael King, Vice-Chairman and CEO of King World Productions. "We have also brought aboard a superb staff of the best comedy producers and writers in the industry and when you add the fact that we're airing in prime access in most markets nationwide, we're really taking 'Hollywood Squares'to a whole new level"