Golden Age of Television

The 1950s and early 1960s were a great time for TV — a time of pioneering. There were variety shows, dramas, game shows, Westerns (of course), and progamming for kids with cartoons and short subjects. Here is a small sampling. Enjoy! If you want to see more from this golden age of television, the TV in The Daily Doo Wop Rec Room has four selections, which are updated about twice a week.

Alcoa Presents: One Step Beyond Season 2 Episode 39 titled “The Storm” first aired on June 21, 1960. The painting by artist Pedro Castera, “The Storm,”  appears to have been completed through his guidance to some villagers from beyond his grave. The cast included Lee Bergere, Rebecca Welles, Danny Bravo, Ernest Sarracino, Argentina Brunetti, Joe Dominguez, Raoul De Leon, Abel Franco, Donald Foster, and John Newland (host). Running time: 22:40.

I Married Joan Season 1 Episode 36 titled “Talent Scout”  first aired on. Joan is bamboozled by some con men who pretend to be talent scouts. She finds herself filming with a chimp. Her husband is assisting the D.A.’s office in trying to build a case against these criminals. The cast included Joan Davis, Jim Backus, Geraldine Carr, Sandra Gould, Jerry Hausner, Barney Phillips, and Bob Sweeney. Running time 24:30.

The Bugs Bunny and Witch Hazel cartoon “Broom-Stick Bunny” (1956).  Running time: 7:09.

And finally, what’s TV without advertising: a vintage Neslé Quik Commercial with Jimmy Nelson, Danny O’Day,  and Farfel.  Running time: 1:29.