Photos: Hulk Hogan

‘Hosting as Performance Art’

Past practitioners: “Iron Chef’s” Takeshi Kaga, “Double Dare’s” Marc Summers

The new kid: “American Gladiator’s” Hulk Hogan

The style: The dramatic host takes pride in his/her hosting. This is not about seeming casual, or relaxed, or normal. This is about high energy. High theater. Drama! Think Takeshi Kaga’s insane bell pepper crunch at the opening of each “Iron Chef” competition or Hulk Hogan’s insane clothes/voice/energy throughout each episode of “American Gladiator.” These hosts aren’t around just to keep the show going, they’re giving it an extra sparkle.  (Peter Kramer / Associated Press)