I remember that "back in the day" there was less golf on television. Additionally, celebrities were more mysterious and admired due to the lack of internet, talk TV etc. The combination made tournaments like the Crosby, particularly given the venue and the time of year, almost irresistible. Soon it seemed almost every tourney had a sponsor; Bob Hope, Dean Martin, Andy Williams, Jackie Gleason, Glen Campbell, Sammy Davis etc. Only the Crosby had multiple courses and multiple days of celebrity play but it was only on for a few hours on the weekend. Changes in all the factors above have made the format less attractive. People who want to see celebs have a lot of outlets. People who want to see golf don't need to see a B list comedian hit shanks.