Stephanie's hot

By last night's web stats run, more than 2,200 visitors had found their way to LA Observed by searching on Google for Stephanie Edwards. That's in just the first three days of 2007, and rather astounding for a 63-year-old woman who hasn't been on television regularly for years — except, of course, for the Rose Parade. [Looking back at 2006, that's more than came here for Mel Gibson or any of the younger TV women who consistently attract Googlers.] For contrast, just 336 have come in looking for Bob Eubanks, who actually appeared on this year's KTLA broadcast. What's the level of Internet interest, you ask, in Edwards' replacement? On my counter, just 55 have arrived searching for Michaela Pereira despite a number of posts about her through the years. I think we have a clear winner.

In Frank Mickadeit's Jan. 1 interview with Edwards in the Orange County Register, she says there are no hurt feelings over her moving on:

"Bob and I have laughed and cried together, and Michaela and I have laughed and cried together. I have nothing but love for them. They'll do fine."

"You think Bob will be around much longer?" I ask.

"I have a feeling Bob's (contract) is coming up and he won't be buying a new ranch this year," she says coyly.

As for her own future, she's writing. "I clear the table every day (to write). I've got piles of notes and have to figure out whether they are a book."

What kind of book?

"Half memoir, half fiction. Maybe I'll call it 'Homicide at the Rose Parade.' Think it'll sell?"

Ratings effect: KTLA still dominated with Rose Parade viewers, but their ratings were off 14% for the first parade without Edwards. Also: Email is still rolling in.

Previously:
They still miss Stephanie
Edwards confirmed she opted out
Stephanie just wants a better umbrella
Email to LA Observed