Halloweeners got a real treat last night with a sneak peek of Fox's "Kids Club" new host.
Children dressed as cheerleaders, monsters and pumpkins came to the WDKY studio last night to meet Charlie, the new big kid on the block.
Those who missed the special treat will have to tune in next week to see the boyish-faced host of their favorite cartoons.
To beat the 300 other candidates, Charlie used a slightly different tactic than one might expect from someone wanting to host a kid's show.
While some wore wild wigs and performed science experiments to get judges' attention, Charlie abandoned all crazy antics for his audition and gave words of encouragement to onlooking children.
"I talked to them like they were people," Charlie said. "I told them to find their talent and to get involved. I didn't talk to them like they were inferior. The children listened."
Since kids are always hearing about negative things they should not do, Charlie wants to use "Kids' Club" as a forum to "talk about things they can do and should do."
The new host, considering himself a laid-back guy, said that he has always been "an entertainer at heart" with adults.
What about the kids?
"I like kids," Charlie said, "but I don't get to be around them much, being a bachelor.
"I've never had this big of a responsibility with children."
The new host said that he anticipates no problems, though, and insists that kids will have fun as long as they stay tuned in.
As host of "Kids' Club," he will introduce children to animals, teach them about common sense and basic tips of living during commercial breaks. Even though it's a learning experience for kids, he said that they will still have a good time.
"The key word is fun. Kids in general always have fun."
Charlie, who can't use his full name because of a contract with the station, said that he is right for "Kids' Club" because he, himself, is young at heart.
"I've not grown up," Charlie said. "I was heartbroken when my parents told me I couldn't go trick-or-treating."
As a UK student, Charlie majored in theater and had a role in the play "Into the Woods."
He left his junior year to pursue acting and has since made a name for himself working on radio advertisements.
Now a local celebrity, Charlie said, "work will require me to be in public places."
This is nothing new for Charlie.
"I've already had a bit of success with radio," he said.
Even though the show is geared towards kids, Charlie encourages everyone to watch.
"When I was in college, I'd sit, in between classes, and watch the cartoons with those annoying people in between commercials," he said.
"I want to make the show somewhat more appealing to the adult crowd."