Viewers who tune in to ABC’s coverage of the Miss America pageant on Saturday will see less programming than last year (down to only two hours), fewer displays of talent (also down to two showcases), but even more Clay Aiken.

In addition to performing his single “My Way,” Aiken will introduce the contestants during the evening wear part of the competition. When the winner is announced, Aiken will serenade her with the classic “The She Is.”

“‘American Idol’ was really popular because it’s a family show, something everyone can sit and watch together as a family,” Aiken told reporters last year before his first visit to the show. “Miss America is the same way – it’s a very family-oriented, safe show, and families can watch it together. I know I did with my mom, my dad and my brother when I was younger.”

Aiken’s debut album “Measure of a Man” is approaching triple-platinum status.

The show will be hosted by Chris Harrison (ABC’s “The Bachelor”).

—

CNBC WANTS MORE MILLER TIME

Despite a tepid launch in January and a near-immediate hiatus for creative retooling, CNBC has renewed “Dennis Miller.”

Keeping the monkey, adding a studio audience, expanding the number of correspondents and improving the caliber of guests appears to have worked for Miller, as the comic and commentator will remain with CNBC through 2005.

“Dennis’ show is the cornerstone of our primetime lineup and we could not be prouder to have him continue to be part of our team,” says Bob Meyers, senior programming vice president at the CNBC. “For the first time in our history, we are building a unique destination at night for our core business audience and Dennis and his show are fundamental to our strategy.”

Naturally, Miller approaches this vote of confidence with grace and reserve.

“I’m just a young kid with a dream,” Miller says in a statement. “Seriously, Jeff Zucker and CNBC have given me a great break here and I hope to do them proud.”

Miller’s roster of high profile visitors has included former President George H.W. Bush, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Al Sharpton, Ben Stein, Wolfgang Puck, and Jay Leno. During the recent GOP Convention, born again Republican Miller had Tim Meadows, John Ridley, and ANT working as correspondents from the convention floor.

Since moving from stand-up to a featured role on NBC’s “Saturday Night Live,” Miller has hosted the Emmy-winning “Dennis Miller Live” on HBO and had a much discussed co-hosting role on ABC’s “Monday Night Football.”

—

(c) 2004, Zap2it.com.

Visit Zap2it.com at http://www.zap2it.com

Distributed by Knight Ridder/Tribune Information Services.

AP-NY-09-13-04 1558EDT