From 1963 until 1970, Michael Dann was CBS’s head of programming, based in New York City. That was a period that included several seasons of almost unbelievable ratings dominance for the network.In 1963-64, for example, CBS had 14 of the…
In a stinging response to the continuing problem of clutter on TV, MindShare, the WWP Group media agency that closely monitors nonprogramming time on TV, has just issued a report saying that it is “alarmed by the continuing deterioration of…
Sept. 18, 1927-The Columbia Phonograph Broadcasting System begins broadcasting to 16 stations. The radio program consists of members of the New York City Metropolitan Opera performing “The King’s Henchmen.”Sept. 26, 1928-William S. Paley is elected president of the Columbia Broadcasting…
Audiences, stations and advertisers will have to decide this fall where the true appeal of a show lies-with its producers, talent and time slots or with its name and venue. And the Superior Court in Los Angeles may have to…
True story. Driving to work a few weeks ago I was convinced I had come up with an irresistible idea. As soon as I got to the office I called my top salesperson.“You’re gonna love this,” I said. “It’s a…
Posted Monday, Sept. 2 Boston Beer pulls ad; Augusta National pulls sponsors In Boston, a prominent beer manufacturer accused of promoting underage drinking has pulled a controversial TV spot, while in Augusta, Ga., Augusta National, the prestigious golf club that…
NBC will name Escobar to head Telemundo stationsNew York-Ramon Escobar is expected to be named senior VP for NBC’s Telemundo station group this week. Mr. Escobar will be responsible for all local news operations, news promotion and local programming in…
The stamps used as wallpaper are part of a CBS promotion for the 1963-64 season. Photos used on the cover and throughout the CBS 75th Anniversary special section are from the Electronic Media files or are courtesy of CBS.
The Insider hates to be a gossip spoilsport, but she’s about to take some fun out of a story that’s making the rounds. According to this story, Viacom Chief Operating Officer Mel Karmazin was slow to warm to the idea…
Thanks to reruns, most viewers today are familiar with Rod Serling as the host and creative force behind “The Twilight Zone,” which originally ran on CBS from 1959 to 1964. But Mr. Serling was actually one of the most acclaimed…