Is the lack of big names at the wsop main event final table good or bad for poker?

In reality, the success of the telecast is due to casual fans, and I'd guess that most weren't familiar with Cunningham or Watkinson and probably had no idea of anyone in 03. What really keeps people interested outside of the poker play is how ESPN actually presents the telecast. Contrary to most of their programming today, they do a great job with their interviews and asides to generate stories independent of the actual players. While I'd very much like to see a final table with 2 or 3 fairly well known guys, I'm more than happy to watch relative unknowns. Besides, a top pro does not guarantee interest. Watkinson was one of the interesting players at the table last year anyway, in terms of casual fandom (although I like watching him play).