Lost Laughs of '50s and '60s Television: Thirty Sitcoms That Faded Off Screen

by David C. Tucker

Originally broadcast on American television between 1952 and 1969, the thirty situation comedies detailed in this work are seldom seen today, receiving only brief and often incomplete and inaccurate mentions in most reference sources. Yet these sitcoms (including Angel, The Governor and J.J., It's a Great Life, I'm Dickens...He's Fenster and Wendy and Me, ) and the stories of the talented people who made them, represent an integral part of TV history. Each of the thirty entries has been extensively researched, including screenings of multiple episodes. Containing a complete list of production credits and rare publicity stills, this volume not only corrects errors and omissions in other sources, but also expands our understanding and appreciation of these neglected sitcoms

248 pages, Paperback

First published April 8, 2010

Reviews

[Simone · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was interesting. I think I liked the concept more than the book. Unlike movies, many tv shows, especially those from the 50s, 60s and 70s were often not well preserved, and even those that were are not released on DVD. This certainly highlights some of those shows. I was hoping for a bit more analysis, instead of just show descriptions. But if this inspires some company to take up a Criterion Collection type mission for television shows, than I'm all for it. Not recommend to anyone but the television scholars crowd.

[J. · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've watched way too many of these shows. I must have done something else with my childhood but watch TV, but what? OH well, this book helped fill in a lot of background on the shows and the subsequent careers of the actors.

[TrumanCoyote · Rating 4 out of 5]

The writer was a tad prissy at times, but other than that it was an interesting read.