PEBBLE BEACH, Calif.- You'll find plenty of celebrities and athletes on the lush, rolling greens of Pebble Beach this year for the AT&T Pro-Am, but you won't find a familiar face, that in years past, drew crowds of spectators that followed him like happy puppies waiting for a treat at every hole.
George Lopez, actor and comedian, is a no show at this year's event. The Monterey Peninsula Foundation said it wanted to rotate celebrities in and out and get in some fresh faces for the fans. No word if he'll return next year.
Lopez has made more than 200 television comedy, talk show, and hosting appearances, including co-hosting the Emmy Awards and twice hosting the Latin Grammy's.
But what affect will Lopez's absence have on the tournament? The Foundation hopes none at all, but said he is a character and will be missed this year.
According to some online sources, Lopez has been traveling and selling out at comedy shows around the nation. Maybe he's busy, but too busy for golf at one of the premier places in the world? C'om.
As for fresh faces, there are few of those, it looks like it's status quo. The regulars who returned this year are Andy Garcia, Bill Murray, Carson Daly, Josh Duhamel, Kenny G and Ray Romano just to name a few.
Let's hope Lopez misses us as much as we miss him and that he returns next year to blow kisses, grab beers and wear ugly checkered pants.
Bill Murray will just have to step up his game.
