Harry Goes To The Oscars

This column was written by CBS News Early Show co-anchor Harry Smith.

Every time I say that people assume I'll be seated in the audience next to George Clooney, chatting up Halle Berry.

Well it's not quite like that. They don't let reporters actually go inside the Oscars or the Governor's ball afterwards.

I watch the show just like you do on TV, except I'm in a cramped hotel room across the street from where the Oscars are being handed out. Then as the show is about to close we scramble over to the Governor's ball to a roped off press section where we call out to the stars as they parade by. George, Reese, over here. Just give us a minute please.

It's all very dignified. Not humiliating at all.

A couple of years ago I was really getting skunked and I was desperate to get the best actress for an interview when she finally exited the Governor's ball. I caught up with her, got the recognition look of "Do I know you?" And proceeded to ask for the briefest interview at which point she swiveled in her high heels and headed the other direction.

It's that glamorous.

Harry's daily commentary can be heard on manyCBS Radio News affiliates across the country.