All articles tagged with #television history
The Brady Bunch House in Studio City, known for its exterior shots in the popular TV show, has been designated a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, cementing its status as a cultural landmark.
Demond Wilson, who played Lamont Sanford on Sanford and Son, died at 79 from cancer complications at his Palm Springs home, after a career that included a guest spot on All in the Family, later TV and stage roles, a stint as a minister, and a 2009 memoir about the Sanford years.
Roger Ewing, known for his role as Deputy Marshal Thad Greenwood on Gunsmoke, died at age 83 on December 18, 2025. He appeared in over 50 episodes and was considered as a potential replacement for James Arness. Ewing also appeared in various other TV shows and films before becoming a photographer. His family shared the news through Neptune Society.
The Ed Sullivan Theater, a historic venue built in 1927 and famous for hosting shows like 'The Ed Sullivan Show' and 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,' is facing its final days as CBS plans to vacate the space by 2026, marking the end of an era for one of Broadway's most storied entertainment landmarks.
Several cast members of 'WKRP in Cincinnati' are still alive, including Gary Sandy, Tim Reid, Jan Smithers, and Richard Sanders, while others like Loni Anderson, Howard Hesseman, Frank Bonner, and Gordon Jump have passed away in recent years. The show remains a beloved classic in television history.
CBS's cancellation of 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert' marks a significant shift in late-night TV, reflecting broader issues of network support and the potential impact on the franchise's legacy, despite Colbert's likely future success.
The beloved claymation special "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" celebrates its 60th anniversary, continuing to air annually since its 1964 debut. Created by Arthur Rankin, Jr. and Jules Bass, the film's enduring appeal lies in its relatable themes of overcoming adversity and finding acceptance, resonating with audiences across generations. Despite some controversies and changes over the years, including the fate of the misfit toys and accusations of bullying, the special remains a cherished holiday tradition.
Veteran actor James B. Sikking, known for his roles in "Hill Street Blues" and "Doogie Howser, M.D.," has died at the age of 90 after battling dementia. Sikking, whose career spanned over five decades, passed away peacefully at his Los Angeles home surrounded by family. He was remembered for his significant contributions to television and film, including an Emmy-nominated performance as Lt. Howard Hunter on "Hill Street Blues." Sikking is survived by his wife Florine, their two children, and four grandchildren.
Ellen Holly, the first Black actress to have a leading role on a daytime soap opera, has passed away at the age of 92. Holly's portrayal of Carla Benari on ABC's One Life to Live in the late 1960s was a groundbreaking moment in television history, as her character explored issues of racial identity and entered into a love triangle with two doctors. Despite her contributions to the show's success, Holly spoke out about being underpaid and mistreated by OLTL executives. Throughout her career, she also appeared on Broadway and in other TV shows and movies.
"The Day After," a TV movie about a nuclear attack on Middle America and its aftermath, became the most anticipated and talked-about TV event of 1983. Despite concerns about its graphic depiction of destruction, over 100 million viewers tuned in, making it the most-watched TV movie ever. The film, which explored the human cost of war, received critical acclaim and sparked conversations about nuclear holocaust. It left a lasting impact on viewers, including President Ronald Reagan, who described it as "greatly depressing."
"Wild Kingdom" is returning to NBC this fall in a new iteration produced by Hearst Media Production Group in partnership with Mutual of Omaha. The show will be titled "Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom Protecting the Wild" and will be hosted by wildlife expert Peter Gros and wildlife ecologist Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant. The series will premiere on Oct. 7 during NBC's "The More You Know" Saturday programming block. "Wild Kingdom" first premiered on NBC in 1963 and has been revived multiple times since.