Robert Klamser was a 5-time champion back in Season 4 and participated in the 2003 Tournament of Champions. I was fortunate enough to do an interview with him, so here it is.
Stephanie: First of all, I want to say congratulations on all your successes on the show. What made you want to be a contestant, and how did you prepare for your audition?
Robert: I have always been a huge game show fan and so I keep an eye out for opportunities to try to get involved. I saw an ad in the local newspaper that the show was looking for contestants so I gave them a call. I didn't so much to prepare beyond just watching the show.
Stephanie: What was the best part of your experiences on the show and why?
Robert: The entire show is so amazing. The nervous excitement backstage is indescribable. Everyone is so nice and positive and it made it fun no matter what happens. I think the best experience was actually becoming a 5-day champ. They (the contestant coordinators) talk about it all the time and how that is the goal. It was so exciting to actually have that distinction of accomplishing it, especially with my wife and mom in the audience. I was on the biggest high after that!
Stephanie: How did the Squares staff (producers, host, etc.) help you feel at ease on national TV during your championship run?
Robert: They were truly professionals. They really talk you through every step over and over. It was like as I was playing, I could hear their advice in my head, despite all of the cameras and pressure. They talk to you at every commercial break and give you pointers. I think the most comforting part is that they make you feel like they really want you to win and that they care. The amazing thing is that they make everyone feel like they are the most important contestant there.
Stephanie: I know you became a 5-time champion back in season 4. Who would you say was your favorite person to team up with in the bonus round and why?
Robert: Actually, I teamed up with Bruce Vilanch three times and Carlos Alazraqui twice and they were both nice, but I always regretted not teaming up with Debra Jo Rupp. I think she is hysterical and there are certain celebrities that you feel more of a connection with and she was one of them.
Stephanie: In your own words, can you take us through your experiences in the Tournament of Champions?
Robert: The TOC was very intense. If there was one difference with that compared to my first experience was that the game felt faster with less humor. Every contestant was very good and only used to winning so there was little margin for error. If you watch my show, I was definitely not always happy. I was playing with my back up against the ropes all the time. I felt like Charlie just capitalized on every error. I was very excited and relieved to win the fourth game and tie it up, but by then, I was so drained that I lost focus. I don't want to give you the wrong idea like I didn't have fun, but I was very disappointed to lose. I had been waiting for the TOC for a year and I was hoping to do a little bit better. That being said, it was so wonderful to be back in that excitement. I will always love this show and I will always be a fan of the staff and the celebrities.
Stephanie: Finally, do you have anything to share with all the Squares fans out there?
Robert: Just that everyone involved with the show seems to truly care about the fans, about the contestants and about the show. Henry loves what he does, Fern, Robert and their contestant staff love the people and treated us like we were celebrities, and just everyone there really cares. I would just encourage anyone who can to try to get on this show (or any game show for that matter). Game shows are a blast (this is my second) and I guarantee that as soon as I am eligible again, I will be trying out for more!
A little PS to me from Robert...
You have a great site and just so you know, everyone at the TOC was talking about you. We all know who you are and we all appreciate everything that you do!