June 20, 1948 - May 30, 1971

Oldest known surviving broadcast content, in any format or transcription, of a TOAST OF THE TOWN opening and closing and comic stand-up routine, extant only in the Archival Television Audio, Inc. archive. 

In 1948 there existed only 600,000 TV sets in America. Practically all television broadcasts were aired LIVE including TOAST OF THE TOWN which would not kinescope their shows until December 5, 1948. 

ED SULLIVAN SHOW, THE, (TOAST OF THE TOWN)
Television's longest running variety series. Originally, titled, TOAST OF THE TOWN, the name of the series changed on September 18, 1955 to THE ED SULLIVAN SHOW. Most remembered for introducing many stand-up comedians, and musical acts, including The Rolling Stones, Elvis Presley, The Beatles. 

 Most of the 1,087 broadcasts, encompassing 10,000 performers, have been archived. The major exceptions are the first half-year of shows circa 1948 of which a few kinescope excerpts survive beginning with broadcasts December 5, 12, and 19, 1948.

 The ED SULLIVAN SHOW was a spectacular show-case that for twenty-three years entertained the American family. In its prime, more than thirty million viewers, young and old, tuned in at the same time to view popular culture.  

The guests archived in this earliest known TALK OF THE TOWN air check are Toni Kelly, with chorus on a boardwalk, in Atlantic City, and a 12 minute stand-up comedy routine by Jan Murray.

Variety reviewed this broadcast stating,

“JAN MURRAY WAS ON FOR A FULL 12 MINUTES OF THE HOUR-LONG SHOW WITH SOME VERY FUNNY BITS WHICH HAD THE STUDIO AUDIENCE YUCKING AS MUCH AS THE HOME AUDIENCE MUST HAVE LAUGHED. 
AS WITH MOST NITERY EMCEES, THE STRAIN TO AVOID BLUISH PATTER WAS EASILY APPARENT BUT MURRAY CARRIED IT OFF OKAY. 
WITH THE RIVAL “TEXACO STAR THEATRE” ON NBC-TV ON THE PROWL FOR SUITABLE EMCEES, MURRAY’S A CINCH TO GET A BID, AND FOR MORE PAY, TOO.” 

NOTE: It was Milton Berle who got the nod, first to appear (audition) June 8, 1948, succeeded by other temporary hosts including Harry Richman, Georgie Price, Henny Youngman, Morey Amsterdam, Jack Carter and Peter Donald who all rotated in the Host's Spot, during the Summer of 1948, but NOT Jan Murray.
The final choice by NBC to become permanent host of THE TEXICO STAR THEATER was Milton Berle, beginning September 21, 1948...and the rest is history!).  

Also, remarkably preserved in this TV Audio Air Check is the entire 2 minute opening and closing of this 6th "TALK OF THE TOWN" Broadcast. 
                                                                      

 June 20, 1948 - May 30, 1971

Oldest known surviving COMPLETE broadcast of a TOAST OF THE TOWN with opening and closing. 

ED SULLIVAN SHOW, THE, (TOAST OF THE TOWN)
Television's longest running variety series. Originally, titled, TOAST OF THE TOWN, the name of the series changed on September 18, 1955 to THE ED SULLIVAN SHOW. Most remembered for introducing many stand-up comedians, and musical acts, including The Rolling Stones, Elvis Presley, The Beatles. 

 Most of the 1,087 broadcasts, encompassing 10,000 performers, have been archived. The major exceptions are the first half-year of shows circa 1948 of which a few kinescope excerpts survive.
 
The ED SULLIVAN SHOW was a spectacular show-case that for twenty-three years entertained the American family. In its prime, more than thirty million viewers, young and old, tuned in at the same time to view popular culture.  

The broadcast begins with announcer Bern Bennett stating guests, and introducing Ed Sullivan. A Balinese dance troop performs. Ed Sullivan (host), Ray Bloch and His Orchestra, The De Marco Sisters sing a melody of songs, Jody Gilbert (tap dancer), double talk artist Al Kelly, Jerry Bergen, Jimmy Smith (xylophone). Ed has guests in his audience stand up for a bow, including Francis Marion, Sue Ryan, Monica Lewis who appeared on the premiere TOAST OF THE TOWN eight weeks prior on June 20, 1948, Harry Hirschfield, who claims to be the first person ever on television, chats with Ed and does a comic monologue, and Peggy Lee sings, "It's Magic," "I Can't Give You Anything but Love Baby." She speaks with Sullivan. From the Liberty Music Store a comedy bit and musical finale with the entire cast.   

NOTE: This broadcast was transcribed from a 16" Electronic Transmission disc, less than a year since the advent and use of Kinescope technology, commercially introduced, September 15, 1947, developed by KODAK, NBC, and Dumont Networks. 

Sound of this TOAST OF THE TOWN transfer varies at times and there are sections were "noise" from the ET transfer to 1/4" reel to reel tape is heard. However, over all, sound is very good and quite listenable. A rare example of a COMPLETE ONE HOUR "lost" television broadcast, circa 1948, surviving only as audio.
                                            

June 18th, 1949-June 24th, 1951 (NBC)

This prime-time half-hour musical variety series, broadcast live from Chicago, introduced Dave Garroway to national television audiences. Other regulars Jack Haskell, Cliff Norton, Connie Russell, Betty Chappel, Jimmy Russell, and Aura Vainio. The show's trademarks were its spare sets (necessitated by a low budget), and humorous endings (such as Garroway announcing that the show was broadcast from Chicago, "the friendliest city in the world," then turning around to show a knife stuck in his back). 
The theme song for this show was "Sentimental Journey" and Garroway's first guest was Louis Armstrong. It was seen on Sunday evenings from 10-10:30PM on NBC. 

On this broadcast, Dave Garroway talks about the wondrous invention of television. 

Theme song: "Sentimental Journey" 

January 19th, 1950- February 23th, 1952 (CBS)

Robert Q. Lewis hosted this prime-time talent show, on which talent buyers, agents, producers, and stars dropped by to audition and hire promising young hopefuls. 

Note: This was the pilot episode for the series.

Celebrities appearing on this episode: Comedian Will Jordan, bandleader Sammy Kaye who is looking for a girl singer, Sam Glick, (club date booker, President of the Piece Goods Buyer's Association) Lee Goober, (owner of the "Rendezvous Room" in Philadelphia), Lila Hyers, (vocal), Jack Russell, (vocal), Alfredo Salmaggi, (founder of "The Salmaggi Opera Company), "The Three Riffs, Adelaide Bishop, (soprano), Ray Bloch and his orchestra).

Announcer: Art Hannes. 
Host: Robert Q. Lewis 

September 21st, 1948-June 9th, 1953

Following an uneventful career in radio, Milton Berle came to a young medium called television to host his own show, The Milton Berle Show, also known as The Texaco Star Theater. The show became a huge hit, giving Berle the nickname, "Mr. Television." Berle was also credited for the sale of millions of TV sets during the medium's early days. Although not the permanent host during the show's first season, Berle became a huge TV star once he did become the show's regular host. Other regulars were a young, up and coming star named Carol Burnett and comedian Arnold Stang. 



Milton's guest is singer Rudy Vallee.                                                   

June 18th, 1949-June 24th, 1951 (NBC)

This prime-time half-hour musical variety series, broadcast live from Chicago, introduced Dave Garroway to national television audiences. Other regulars Jack Haskell, Cliff Norton, Connie Russell, Betty Chappel, Jimmy Russell, and Aura Vainio. The show's trademarks were its spare sets (necessitated by a low budget), and humorous endings. 
The theme song for this show was "Sentimental Journey" and Garroway's first guest was Louis Armstrong. It was seen on Sunday evenings from 10-10:30PM on NBC. 

Guest: Mildred Daly. Also featuring Jack Haskell. 

June 18th, 1949-June 24th, 1951 (NBC)

This prime-time half-hour musical variety series, broadcast live from Chicago, introduced Dave Garroway to national television audiences. Other regulars Jack Haskell, Cliff Norton, Connie Russell, Betty Chappel, Jimmy Russell, and Aura Vainio. The show's trademarks were its spare sets (necessitated by a low budget), and humorous endings. 
The theme song for this show was "Sentimental Journey" and Garroway's first guest was Louis Armstrong. It was seen on Sunday evenings from 10-10:30PM on NBC. 

Highlights of December 10th, 1950, show: 

Comedian Cliff Norton does a football coach routine.
Betty Chappel sings "Get Out And Get Under The Moon." 
Dave Garroway gives his audience Christmas tips
Jack Haskell and Connie Russell sing ""Foggy Day" 

June 18th, 1949-June 24th, 1951 (NBC)

This prime-time half-hour musical variety series, broadcast live from Chicago, introduced Dave Garroway to national television audiences. Other regulars Jack Haskell, Cliff Norton, Connie Russell, Betty Chappel, Jimmy Russell, and Aura Vainio. The show's trademarks were its spare sets (necessitated by a low budget), and humorous endings. 
The theme song for this show was "Sentimental Journey" and Garroway's first guest was Louis Armstrong. It was seen on Sunday evenings from 10-10:30PM on NBC. 

Highlights of December 17th, 1950, show: 

Betty Chappel sings "My Heart's In The Middle Of July"
Connie Russell and Jack Haskell sing " Sleigh Ride Christmas Song"
Dave Garroway discusses his studio telescope camera. 

June 18th, 1949-June 24th, 1951 (NBC)

This prime-time half-hour musical variety series, broadcast live from Chicago, introduced Dave Garroway to national television audiences. Other regulars Jack Haskell, Cliff Norton, Connie Russell, Betty Chappel, Jimmy Russell, and Aura Vainio. The show's trademarks were its spare sets (necessitated by a low budget), and humorous endings. 
The theme song for this show was "Sentimental Journey" and Garroway's first guest was Louis Armstrong. It was seen on Sunday evenings from 10-10:30PM on NBC. 

Dave sings: "The Man I Love." 

June 18th, 1949-June 24th, 1951 (NBC)

This prime-time half-hour musical variety series, broadcast live from Chicago, introduced Dave Garroway to national television audiences. Other regulars Jack Haskell, Cliff Norton, Connie Russell, Betty Chappel, Jimmy Russell, and Aura Vainio. The show's trademarks were its spare sets (necessitated by a low budget), and humorous endings. 
The theme song for this show was "Sentimental Journey" and Garroway's first guest was Louis Armstrong. It was seen on Sunday evenings from 10-10:30PM on NBC. 

Guest: Louis Armstrong sings "Sit Down, You're Rockin The Boat"
Dave Garroway mentions that Louis Armstrong was the first guest on the premiere show (Garroway At Large, June 18th, 1949).
Armstrong plays the trumpet and sings "Basin Street Blues."
Also featured are Jack Haskell, Connie Russell, Cliff Norton, Betty Chappel, Jimmy Russell, and Art Van Damme. 

October 4th, 1950-July 18th, 1951 (NBC)

This Wednesday-night variety hour featured four rotating hosts; Danny Thomas, Jack Carson, Jimmy Durante, and Ed Wynn. In the fall of 1951, more hosts were added, and the show was retitled All-Star Revue. 

Guest: Constance De Mattiazzi, The DeMattiazzi's.

Host: Danny Thomas. 

October 4th, 1950-July 18th, 1951 (NBC)

This Wednesday-night variety hour featured four rotating hosts; Danny Thomas, Jack Carson, Jimmy Durante, and Ed Wynn. In the fall of 1951, more hosts were added, and the show was retitled All-Star Revue. 

Premiere of guest Paulette Goddard.

Host: Danny Thomas. 

June 7th, 1952-August 30th, 1952 (NBC)

Jerry Lester, former host of Broadway Open House, emceed this variety hour, a summer replacement for Sid Caesar's "Your Show Of Shows." 

January 7th, 1952-April 24th, 1959 (CBS)

Daily variety Series starring Arthur Godfrey. Tony Marvin was the MC.                                                                            

           June 20, 1948 - May 30, 1971

ED SULLIVAN SHOW, THE, (TOAST OF THE TOWN)
Television's longest running variety series. Originally, titled, TOAST OF THE TOWN, the name of the series changed on September 18, 1955 to THE ED SULLIVAN SHOW. Most remembered for introducing many stand-up comedians, and musical acts, including The Rolling Stones, Elvis Presley, The Beatles. 

 Most of the 1,087 broadcasts, encompassing 10,000 performers, have been archived. The major exceptions are the first half year of shows circa 1948 of which a few kinescope excerpts survive.
 
The ED SULLIVAN SHOW was a spectacular show-case that for twenty-three years entertained the American family. In its prime, more than thirty million viewers, young and old, tuned in at the same time to view popular culture.   

Guests: Liberace, Patti Page.                                                                

October 2, 1950 - June 24, 1955 
(CBS TV Monday, Wednesday, Friday 15 minute broadcasts).

September 12, 1955-June 12, 1963. In the fall of 1955 Perry Como returned to NBC where he hosted a weekly hour show. From 1955 to 1959 it was seen Saturday evenings and was titled "The Perry Como Show." From 1959 to 1963 it was seen Wednesday evenings and was titled "The Kraft Music Hall." Regulars included Frank Gallop and the Ray Charles Singers. After his final weekly June 12, 1963 broadcast Perry Como appeared in scores of specials, beginning October 3, 1963, airing on NBC, CBS & ABC, and concluding on December 6, 1986.

Guests: The Andrew Sisters.

Fontane Sisters, Jack Brown, Ray Charles Singers, Mitchell Ayres Orchestra, Mitchell Ayres. 

Announcer: Dick Stark                                                                                                                                                                                                      

October 2, 1950 - June 24, 1955 
(CBS TV Monday, Wednesday, Friday 15 minute broadcasts).

September 12, 1955-June 12, 1963. In the fall of 1955 Perry Como returned to NBC where he hosted a weekly hour show. From 1955 to 1959 it was seen Saturday evenings and was titled "The Perry Como Show." From 1959 to 1963 it was seen Wednesday evenings and was titled "The Kraft Music Hall." Regulars included Frank Gallop and the Ray Charles Singers. After his final weekly June 12, 1963 broadcast Perry Como appeared in scores of specials, beginning October 3, 1963, airing on NBC, CBS & ABC, and concluding on December 6, 1986. 

Jack Brown, Ray Charles Singers, Fontane Sisters. Mitchell Ayres, Mitchell Ayres Orchestra.

Announcer: Dick Stark                                                                                 

October 2, 1950 - June 24, 1955 
(CBS TV Monday, Wednesday, Friday 15 minute broadcasts).

September 12, 1955-June 12, 1963. In the fall of 1955 Perry Como returned to NBC where he hosted a weekly hour show. From 1955 to 1959 it was seen Saturday evenings and was titled "The Perry Como Show." From 1959 to 1963 it was seen Wednesday evenings and was titled "The Kraft Music Hall." Regulars included Frank Gallop and the Ray Charles Singers. After his final weekly June 12, 1963 broadcast Perry Como appeared in scores of specials, beginning October 3, 1963, airing on NBC, CBS & ABC, and concluding on December 6, 1986. 

Fontane Sisters, Jack Brown, Ray Charles Singers, Mitchell Ayres, Mitchell Ayres Orchestra. 

Announcer: Dick Stark                                                                                 

October 2, 1950 - June 24, 1955 
(CBS TV Monday, Wednesday, Friday 15 minute broadcasts).

September 12, 1955-June 12, 1963. In the fall of 1955 Perry Como returned to NBC where he hosted a weekly hour show. From 1955 to 1959 it was seen Saturday evenings and was titled "The Perry Como Show." From 1959 to 1963 it was seen Wednesday evenings and was titled "The Kraft Music Hall." Regulars included Frank Gallop and the Ray Charles Singers. After his final weekly June 12, 1963 broadcast Perry Como appeared in scores of specials, beginning October 3, 1963, airing on NBC, CBS & ABC, and concluding on December 6, 1986. 

Guests: Les Paul and Mary Ford.     

Mitchell Ayres  Orchestra.

Announcer: Dick Stark.                                                                  

January 7th, 1952-April 24th, 1959 (CBS)

Daily variety Series starring Arthur Godfrey. Tony Marvin was the MC.                                                               

October 2, 1950 - June 24, 1955 
(CBS TV Monday, Wednesday, Friday 15 minute broadcasts).

September 12, 1955-June 12, 1963. In the fall of 1955 Perry Como returned to NBC where he hosted a weekly hour show. From 1955 to 1959 it was seen Saturday evenings and was titled "The Perry Como Show." From 1959 to 1963 it was seen Wednesday evenings and was titled "The Kraft Music Hall." Regulars included Frank Gallop and the Ray Charles Singers. After his final weekly June 12, 1963 broadcast Perry Como appeared in scores of specials, beginning October 3, 1963, airing on NBC, CBS & ABC, and concluding on December 6, 1986. 

Guest: Ray Anthony.      

Announcer: Dick Stark.                                                                            

October 2, 1950 - June 24, 1955 
(CBS TV Monday, Wednesday, Friday 15 minute broadcasts).

September 12, 1955-June 12, 1963. In the fall of 1955 Perry Como returned to NBC where he hosted a weekly hour show. From 1955 to 1959 it was seen Saturday evenings and was titled "The Perry Como Show." From 1959 to 1963 it was seen Wednesday evenings and was titled "The Kraft Music Hall." Regulars included Frank Gallop and the Ray Charles Singers. After his final weekly June 12, 1963 broadcast Perry Como appeared in scores of specials, beginning October 3, 1963, airing on NBC, CBS & ABC, and concluding on December 6, 1986. 

Fontane Sisters, Jack Brown, Ray Charles Singers, Mitchell Ayres Orchestra, Mitchell Ayres. 

Announcer: Dick Stark                                                                                              

           June 20, 1948 - May 30, 1971

ED SULLIVAN SHOW, THE, (TOAST OF THE TOWN)
Television's longest running variety series. Originally, titled, TOAST OF THE TOWN, the name of the series changed on September 18, 1955 to THE ED SULLIVAN SHOW. Most remembered for introducing many stand-up comedians, and musical acts, including The Rolling Stones, Elvis Presley, The Beatles. 

 Most of the 1,087 broadcasts, encompassing 10,000 performers, have been archived. The major exceptions are the first half year of shows circa 1948 of which a few kinescope excerpts survive.
 
The ED SULLIVAN SHOW was a spectacular show-case that for twenty-three years entertained the American family. In its prime, more than thirty million viewers, young and old, tuned in at the same time to view popular culture.   

Guest: Rosemary Clooney 

Host: Ed Sullivan                                                     

           June 20, 1948 - May 30, 1971

ED SULLIVAN SHOW, THE, (TOAST OF THE TOWN)
Television's longest running variety series. Originally, titled, TOAST OF THE TOWN, the name of the series changed on September 18, 1955 to THE ED SULLIVAN SHOW. Most remembered for introducing many stand-up comedians, and musical acts, including The Rolling Stones, Elvis Presley, The Beatles. 

 Most of the 1,087 broadcasts, encompassing 10,000 performers, have been archived. The major exceptions are the first half year of shows circa 1948 of which a few kinescope excerpts survive.
 
The ED SULLIVAN SHOW was a spectacular show-case that for twenty-three years entertained the American family. In its prime, more than thirty million viewers, young and old, tuned in at the same time to view popular culture.   

Guest: Rosemary Clooney.                                                      

           June 20, 1948 - May 30, 1971

ED SULLIVAN SHOW, THE, (TOAST OF THE TOWN)
Television's longest running variety series. Originally, titled, TOAST OF THE TOWN, the name of the series changed on September 18, 1955 to THE ED SULLIVAN SHOW. Most remembered for introducing many stand-up comedians, and musical acts, including The Rolling Stones, Elvis Presley, The Beatles. 

 Most of the 1,087 broadcasts, encompassing 10,000 performers, have been archived. The major exceptions are the first half year of shows circa 1948 of which a few kinescope excerpts survive.
 
The ED SULLIVAN SHOW was a spectacular show-case that for twenty-three years entertained the American family. In its prime, more than thirty million viewers, young and old, tuned in at the same time to view popular culture.   

Guests: Ames Brothers, Polly Bergen.                                             

October 2, 1950 - June 24, 1955 
(CBS TV Monday, Wednesday, Friday 15 minute broadcasts).

September 12, 1955-June 12, 1963. In the fall of 1955 Perry Como returned to NBC where he hosted a weekly hour show. From 1955 to 1959 it was seen Saturday evenings and was titled "The Perry Como Show." From 1959 to 1963 it was seen Wednesday evenings and was titled "The Kraft Music Hall." Regulars included Frank Gallop and the Ray Charles Singers. After his final weekly June 12, 1963 broadcast Perry Como appeared in scores of specials, beginning October 3, 1963, airing on NBC, CBS & ABC, and concluding on December 6, 1986. 

Fontane Sisters, Jack Brown, Ray Charles Singers, Mitchell Ayres Orchestra, Mitchell Ayres. 

Announcer: Dick Stark                                                                                              

NBC October 2nd, 1954-March 10th, 1959
CBS October 11th, 1959-June 5th, 1960, 

George Gobel hosted three different variety series. The first was a half-hour program October 1954 thru June 1957. The second also for NBC was an hour broadcast alternating with the Eddie Fisher Show, both starring and guesting  on each others program each week (September 1957 thru March 1959).

Third series for Gobel had him appear on CBS TV from October 1959 thru June 1960 back with a half-hour format. 

During his NBC run George Gobel would do an "Alice" skit, parodying his own real life domestic life with wife, Alice.

Jeff Donnell (1957-1958) and later Phyllis Avery (1958-1959) played the role of Alice.

Usually there would be a guest star and a skit or two following a down home spun stand-up monolgue at the beginning of the program by "lonesone" George Gobel.

Guests: actor William Gargen, Peggy King. 


                                                  

NBC October 2nd, 1954-March 10th, 1959
CBS October 11th, 1959-June 5th, 1960, 

George Gobel hosted three different variety series. The first was a half-hour program October 1954 thru June 1957. The second also for NBC was an hour broadcast alternating with the Eddie Fisher Show, both starring and guesting  on each others program each week (September 1957 thru March 1959).

Third series for Gobel had him appear on CBS TV from October 1959 thru June 1960 back with a half-hour format. 

During his NBC run George Gobel would do an "Alice" skit, parodying his own real life domestic life with wife, Alice.

Jeff Donnell (1957-1958) and later Phyllis Avery (1958-1959) played the role of Alice.

Usually there would be a guest star and a skit or two following a down home spun stand-up monologue at the beginning of the program by "lonesome" George Gobel.

Peggy King sings, "That's Entertainment." George sings the last bar of "That Old Irish Mother of Mine."

Announcer for this broadcast is Art Gilmore. 


                                                                            

           June 20, 1948 - May 30, 1971

ED SULLIVAN SHOW, THE, (TOAST OF THE TOWN)
Television's longest running variety series. Originally, titled, TOAST OF THE TOWN, the name of the series changed on September 18, 1955 to THE ED SULLIVAN SHOW. Most remembered for introducing many stand-up comedians, and musical acts, including The Rolling Stones, Elvis Presley, The Beatles. 

 Most of the 1,087 broadcasts, encompassing 10,000 performers, have been archived. The major exceptions are the first half year of shows circa 1948 of which a few kinescope excerpts survive.
 
The ED SULLIVAN SHOW was a spectacular show-case that for twenty-three years entertained the American family. In its prime, more than thirty million viewers, young and old, tuned in at the same time to view popular culture.   

Guest: Musician Ted Lewis.                                          

October 2, 1950 - June 24, 1955 
(CBS TV Monday, Wednesday, Friday 15 minute broadcasts).

September 12, 1955-June 12, 1963. In the fall of 1955 Perry Como returned to NBC where he hosted a weekly hour show. From 1955 to 1959 it was seen Saturday evenings and was titled "The Perry Como Show." From 1959 to 1963 it was seen Wednesday evenings and was titled "The Kraft Music Hall." Regulars included Frank Gallop and the Ray Charles Singers. After his final weekly June 12, 1963 broadcast Perry Como appeared in scores of specials, beginning October 3, 1963, airing on NBC, CBS & ABC, and concluding on December 6, 1986. 

Fontane Sisters, Jack Brown, Ray Charles Singers, Mitchell Ayres Orchestra, Mitchell Ayres. 

Announcer: Dick Stark                                                                                                           

1948-1958 (CBS) 

Long-running talent showcase for both professional and amateur talent, hosted by Arthur Godfrey.    

Feature: Dixieland music.                      

The show is an hour-long situation comedy which features variety acts.

Guest: Senor Wences. 

October 2, 1950 - June 24, 1955 
(CBS TV Monday, Wednesday, Friday 15 minute broadcasts).

September 12, 1955-June 12, 1963. In the fall of 1955 Perry Como returned to NBC where he hosted a weekly hour show. From 1955 to 1959 it was seen Saturday evenings and was titled "The Perry Como Show." From 1959 to 1963 it was seen Wednesday evenings and was titled "The Kraft Music Hall." Regulars included Frank Gallop and the Ray Charles Singers. After his final weekly June 12, 1963 broadcast Perry Como appeared in scores of specials, beginning October 3, 1963, airing on NBC, CBS & ABC, and concluding on December 6, 1986. 

Fontane Sisters, Jack Brown, Ray Charles Singers, Mitchell Ayres Orchestra, Mitchell Ayres. 

Announcer: Dick Stark                                                                                                                        

NBC October 2nd, 1954-March 10th, 1959
CBS October 11th, 1959-June 5th, 1960, 

George Gobel hosted three different variety series. The first was a half-hour program October 1954 thru June 1957. The second also for NBC was an hour broadcast alternating with the Eddie Fisher Show, both starring and guesting  on each others program each week (September 1957 thru March 1959).

Third series for Gobel had him appear on CBS TV from October 1959 thru June 1960 back with a half-hour format. 

During his NBC run George Gobel would do an "Alice" skit, parodying his own real life domestic life with wife, Alice.

Jeff Donnell (1957-1958) and later Phyllis Avery (1958-1959) played the role of Alice.

Usually there would be a guest star and a skit or two following a down home spun stand-up monolgue at the beginning of the program by "lonesone" George Gobel.

Announcer for this broadcast is Del Jarvis. 


                                                  

NBC October 2nd, 1954-March 10th, 1959
CBS October 11th, 1959-June 5th, 1960, 

George Gobel hosted three different variety series. The first was a half-hour program October 1954 thru June 1957. The second also for NBC was an hour broadcast alternating with the Eddie Fisher Show, both starring and guesting  on each others program each week (September 1957 thru March 1959).

Third series for Gobel had him appear on CBS TV from October 1959 thru June 1960 back with a half-hour format. 

During his NBC run George Gobel would do an "Alice" skit, parodying his own real life domestic life with wife, Alice.

Jeff Donnell (1957-1958) and later Phyllis Avery (1958-1959) played the role of Alice.

Usually there would be a guest star and a skit or two following a down home spun stand-up monolgue at the beginning of the program by "lonesone" George Gobel.

Announcer for this broadcast is Del Jarvis. 

Duplicate of #10,237.


                                                  

           June 20, 1948 - May 30, 1971

ED SULLIVAN SHOW, THE, (TOAST OF THE TOWN)
Television's longest-running variety series. Originally, titled, TOAST OF THE TOWN, the name of the series changed on September 18, 1955, to THE ED SULLIVAN SHOW. Most remembered for introducing many stand-up comedians, and musical acts, including The Rolling Stones, Elvis Presley, The Beatles. 

 Most of the 1,087 broadcasts, encompassing 10,000 performers, have been archived. The major exceptions are the first half-year of shows circa 1948 of which a few kinescope excerpts survive.
 
The ED SULLIVAN SHOW was a spectacular show-case that for twenty-three years entertained the American family. In its prime, more than thirty million viewers, young and old, tuned in at the same time to view popular culture.   

On this show, Ed Sullivan salutes the Richard Rodgers & Oscar Hammerstein play OKLAHOMA acknowledging its 12 anniversary. Hammerstein is interviewed by Ed Sullivan.                           

NBC October 2nd, 1954-March 10th, 1959
CBS October 11th, 1959-June 5th, 1960, 

George Gobel hosted three different variety series. The first was a half-hour program October 1954 thru June 1957. The second also for NBC was an hour broadcast alternating with the Eddie Fisher Show, both starring and guesting  on each others program each week (September 1957 thru March 1959).

Third series for Gobel had him appear on CBS TV from October 1959 thru June 1960 back with a half-hour format. 

During his NBC run George Gobel would do an "Alice" skit, parodying his own real life domestic life with wife, Alice.

Jeff Donnell (1957-1958) and later Phyllis Avery (1958-1959) played the role of Alice.

Usually there would be a guest star and a skit or two following a down home spun stand-up monolgue at the beginning of the program by "lonesone" George Gobel.

Guest: Walter Brennan. 


                                                  

           June 20, 1948 - May 30, 1971

ED SULLIVAN SHOW, THE, (TOAST OF THE TOWN)
Television's longest running variety series. Originally, titled, TOAST OF THE TOWN, the name of the series changed on September 18, 1955 to THE ED SULLIVAN SHOW. Most remembered for introducing many stand-up comedians, and musical acts, including The Rolling Stones, Elvis Presley, The Beatles. 

 Most of the 1,087 broadcasts, encompassing 10,000 performers, have been archived. The major exceptions are the first half year of shows circa 1948 of which a few kinescope excerpts survive.
 
The ED SULLIVAN SHOW was a spectacular show-case that for twenty-three years entertained the American family. In its prime, more than thirty million viewers, young and old, tuned in at the same time to view popular culture.   

Guests: Lionel Hampton, Phil Foster.                            

NBC October 2nd, 1954-March 10th, 1959
CBS October 11th, 1959-June 5th, 1960, 

George Gobel hosted three different variety series. The first was a half-hour program October 1954 thru June 1957. The second also for NBC was an hour broadcast alternating with the Eddie Fisher Show, both starring and guesting  on each others program each week (September 1957 thru March 1959).

Third series for Gobel had him appear on CBS TV from October 1959 thru June 1960 back with a half-hour format. 

During his NBC run George Gobel would do an "Alice" skit, parodying his own real life domestic life with wife, Alice.

Jeff Donnell (1957-1958) and later Phyllis Avery (1958-1959) played the role of Alice.

Usually there would be a guest star and a skit or two following a down home spun stand-up monolgue at the beginning of the program by "lonesone" George Gobel.

Guest: Jack Benny. 


                                                  

           June 20, 1948 - May 30, 1971

ED SULLIVAN SHOW, THE, (TOAST OF THE TOWN)
Television's longest running variety series. Originally, titled, TOAST OF THE TOWN, the name of the series changed on September 18, 1955 to THE ED SULLIVAN SHOW. Most remembered for introducing many stand-up comedians, and musical acts, including The Rolling Stones, Elvis Presley, The Beatles. 

 Most of the 1,087 broadcasts, encompassing 10,000 performers, have been archived. The major exceptions are the first half year of shows circa 1948 of which a few kinescope excerpts survive.
 
The ED SULLIVAN SHOW was a spectacular show-case that for twenty-three years entertained the American family. In its prime, more than thirty million viewers, young and old, tuned in at the same time to view popular culture.   

Guest: Comedian Jack E. Leonard                       

October 2, 1950 - June 24, 1955 
(CBS TV Monday, Wednesday, Friday 15 minute broadcasts).

September 12, 1955-June 12, 1963. In the fall of 1955 Perry Como returned to NBC where he hosted a weekly hour show. From 1955 to 1959 it was seen Saturday evenings and was titled "The Perry Como Show." From 1959 to 1963 it was seen Wednesday evenings and was titled "The Kraft Music Hall." Regulars included Frank Gallop and the Ray Charles Singers. After his final weekly June 12, 1963 broadcast Perry Como appeared in scores of specials, beginning October 3, 1963, airing on NBC, CBS & ABC, and concluding on December 6, 1986. 

Fontane Sisters, Jack Brown, Ray Charles Singers, Mitchell Ayres Orchestra, Mitchell Ayres. 

Announcer: Dick Stark                                                                                                                                     

NBC October 2nd, 1954-March 10th, 1959
CBS October 11th, 1959-June 5th, 1960, 

George Gobel hosted three different variety series. The first was a half-hour program October 1954 thru June 1957. The second also for NBC was an hour broadcast alternating with the Eddie Fisher Show, both starring and guesting  on each others program each week (September 1957 thru March 1959).

Third series for Gobel had him appear on CBS TV from October 1959 thru June 1960 back with a half-hour format. 

During his NBC run George Gobel would do an "Alice" skit, parodying his own real life domestic life with wife, Alice.

Jeff Donnell (1957-1958) and later Phyllis Avery (1958-1959) played the role of Alice.

Usually there would be a guest star and a skit or two following a down home spun stand-up monolgue at the beginning of the program by "lonesone" George Gobel.

Guest: Gary Moore. 


                                                  

October 2, 1950 - June 24, 1955 
(CBS TV Monday, Wednesday, Friday 15 minute broadcasts).

September 12, 1955-June 12, 1963. In the fall of 1955 Perry Como returned to NBC where he hosted a weekly hour show. From 1955 to 1959 it was seen Saturday evenings and was titled "The Perry Como Show." From 1959 to 1963 it was seen Wednesday evenings and was titled "The Kraft Music Hall." Regulars included Frank Gallop and the Ray Charles Singers. After his final weekly June 12, 1963 broadcast Perry Como appeared in scores of specials, beginning October 3, 1963, airing on NBC, CBS & ABC, and concluding on December 6, 1986. 

Fontane Sisters, Jack Brown, Ray Charles Singers, Mitchell Ayres Orchestra, Mitchell Ayres. 

Announcer: Dick Stark                                                                                                                                                  

September 20, 1952-June 22, 1957; October 3, 1958-January 2 1959; February 3 1961-March 24, 1961; September 1962-September 12, 1970

After the 1954-1955 season (one hour live broadcasts), Jackie Gleason produced a series of 39 filmed half-hour episodes of "The Honeymooners" which was syndicated (1955-1956). For the following 1956-1957 season, the Jackie Gleason Show returned to a live one-hour variety format with a Honeymooners sketch included in many of its broadcasts. After this season, The Honeymooners sketches would not be revived until the 1966-1967 season of The Jackie Gleason Show.    

Comedy Skits: A. Charlie Bratten, B. Joe The Bartender, C. Reggie Van Gleason 111.                                                                 

October 2, 1950 - June 24, 1955 
(CBS TV Monday, Wednesday, Friday 15 minute broadcasts).

September 12, 1955-June 12, 1963. In the fall of 1955 Perry Como returned to NBC where he hosted a weekly hour show. From 1955 to 1959 it was seen Saturday evenings and was titled "The Perry Como Show." From 1959 to 1963 it was seen Wednesday evenings and was titled "The Kraft Music Hall." Regulars included Frank Gallop and the Ray Charles Singers. After his final weekly June 12, 1963 broadcast Perry Como appeared in scores of specials, beginning October 3, 1963, airing on NBC, CBS & ABC, and concluding on December 6, 1986. 

Fontane Sisters, Jack Brown, Ray Charles Singers, Mitchell Ayres Orchestra, Mitchell Ayres. 

Announcer: Dick Stark                                                                                                                                                               

October 2, 1950 - June 24, 1955 
(CBS TV Monday, Wednesday, Friday 15 minute broadcasts).

September 12, 1955-June 12, 1963. In the fall of 1955 Perry Como returned to NBC where he hosted a weekly hour show. From 1955 to 1959 it was seen Saturday evenings and was titled "The Perry Como Show." From 1959 to 1963 it was seen Wednesday evenings and was titled "The Kraft Music Hall." Regulars included Frank Gallop and the Ray Charles Singers. After his final weekly June 12, 1963 broadcast Perry Como appeared in scores of specials, beginning October 3, 1963, airing on NBC, CBS & ABC, and concluding on December 6, 1986. 

Fontane Sisters, Jack Brown, Ray Charles Singers, Mitchell Ayres Orchestra, Mitchell Ayres. 

Announcer: Dick Stark                                                                                                                                                                            

October 2, 1950 - June 24, 1955 
(CBS TV Monday, Wednesday, Friday 15 minute broadcasts).

September 12, 1955-June 12, 1963. In the fall of 1955 Perry Como returned to NBC where he hosted a weekly hour show. From 1955 to 1959 it was seen Saturday evenings and was titled "The Perry Como Show." From 1959 to 1963 it was seen Wednesday evenings and was titled "The Kraft Music Hall." Regulars included Frank Gallop and the Ray Charles Singers. After his final weekly June 12, 1963 broadcast Perry Como appeared in scores of specials, beginning October 3, 1963, airing on NBC, CBS & ABC, and concluding on December 6, 1986. 

Fontane Sisters, Jack Brown, Ray Charles Singers, Mitchell Ayres Orchestra, Mitchell Ayres. 

Announcer: Dick Stark                                                                                                                                                                                         

NBC October 2nd, 1954-March 10th, 1959
CBS October 11th, 1959-June 5th, 1960, 

George Gobel hosted three different variety series. The first was a half-hour program October 1954 thru June 1957. The second also for NBC was an hour broadcast alternating with the Eddie Fisher Show, both starring and guesting  on each others program each week (September 1957 thru March 1959).

Third series for Gobel had him appear on CBS TV from October 1959 thru June 1960 back with a half-hour format. 

During his NBC run George Gobel would do an "Alice" skit, parodying his own real life domestic life with wife, Alice.

Jeff Donnell (1957-1958) and later Phyllis Avery (1958-1959) played the role of Alice.

Usually there would be a guest star and a skit or two following a down home spun stand-up monolgue at the beginning of the program by "lonesone" George Gobel.

Guests: Ludwig Stossel, Julius Tannen.


                                                  

           June 20, 1948 - May 30, 1971

ED SULLIVAN SHOW, THE, (TOAST OF THE TOWN)
Television's longest running variety series. Originally, titled, TOAST OF THE TOWN, the name of the series changed on September 18, 1955 to THE ED SULLIVAN SHOW. Most remembered for introducing many stand-up comedians, and musical acts, including The Rolling Stones, Elvis Presley, The Beatles. 

 Most of the 1,087 broadcasts, encompassing 10,000 performers, have been archived. The major exceptions are the first half year of shows circa 1948 of which a few kinescope excerpts survive.
 
The ED SULLIVAN SHOW was a spectacular show-case that for twenty-three years entertained the American family. In its prime, more than thirty million viewers, young and old, tuned in at the same time to view popular culture.   

Guests: Army talent is featured.                        

September 20, 1952-June 22, 1957; October 3, 1958-January 2 1959; February 3 1961-March 24, 1961; September 1962-September 12, 1970

After the 1954-1955 season (one hour live broadcasts), Jackie Gleason produced a series of 39 filmed half-hour episodes of "The Honeymooners" which was syndicated (1955-1956). For the following 1956-1957 season, the Jackie Gleason Show returned to a live one-hour variety format with a Honeymooners sketch included in many of its broadcasts. After this season, The Honeymooners sketches would not be revived until the 1966-1967 season of The Jackie Gleason Show.    

Guests: Art Carney, Audrey Meadows. Final show of the 1954-55 season.