1964-03-18, WNBC, 64 min.
January 14, 1952-Present. First early-morning network program and longest-running daytime series. Created by Sylvester "Pat" Weaver. Telecast Monday thru Friday, 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, the broadcasts have maintained a format including a News Summary, segments related to Sports, Weather, Interviews, and Features. Throughout its long run, hosts of "The Today Show" have included Dave Garroway (1952-1961), John Chancellor (1961-1962), Hugh Downs (1962-1971), Frank McGee (1971-1974), Jim Hartz (1974-1976), Tom Brokaw (1976-1981), Jane Pauley, Bryant Gumbel, Chris Wallace, Katie Couric, and others.
A live anniversary special salute to Fred Allen who died eight years ago in 1956. Joining Hugh Downs and Jack Lescoulie are Kenny Delmar, Parker Kennelly, Peter Donald, Max Asnas, Jim Harkins and some taped reflections by old pal Jack Benny. There are many personal reminiscences and some recreated skits live in the schedule.