Advanced TV Herstory

Why do cozy mysteries still dominate the mystery genre, decades after their prime? Cynthia Bemis Abrams welcomes Prof. Bridget Kies of Oakland University for an insightful conversation exploring the long-running impact of Murder, She Wrote (1984–1996) and the enduring appeal of the cozy crime format. Explore: Angela Lansbury's legacy as the iconic Jessica Fletcher How Murder, She Wrote exemplifies the cozy mystery genre across TV, books, and beyond The academic relevance of the Wayne State University Press's TV Milestone Series Why female-driven mysteries and older women protagonists remain culturally powerful Murder, She Wrote's influence on Hallmark mysteries, true crime fandom, and TikTok sleuths With real-life insights from a TV scholar, fan anecdotes, and an acknowledgment of the series' reboot potential, this episode offers a smart and nostalgic look at why Murder, She Wrote still matters.   Quote from the Episode: “Murder, She Wrote was popular at a really important time in TV history, when everything about TV was changing. It started before those changes and ended in the middle of them. It tells us so much about TV's transitions from the early ‘80s to the mid-‘90s. Referenced ATH Episode: 8.5 – In Memoriam: Angela Lansbury's Legacy on Stage & Screen https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/in-memoriam-angela-lansbury-msw Resources: Kies, Bridget (2023). Murder, She Wrote (TV Milestone Series), Wayne State University Press https://wsupress.wayne.edu/9780814350119/ https://www.kelleyhousemuseum.org/events/murder-she-wrote-fanfest/

From Lucille Ball to Tina Fey, from Joan Rivers to Margaret Cho, women have been rewriting the rules of comedy for decades — and they're not done yet. Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams is joined by Lynn Harris, founder of Gold Comedy, to explore the legacy and future of funny women on TV. Together, they dissect the comedic influence of legends like Mary Tyler Moore, Moms Mabley, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus — and discuss why shows like SNL still present challenges for women today. With a nod to streaming, social media, and evolving industry gatekeepers, this episode dives into how women and non-binary creatives are shaping the next chapter of television comedy. Background & Mentions Gold Comedy – https://goldcomedy.com/ 1.21 – Lucille Ball's Humility & Pride https://traffic.libsyn.com/advancedtvherstory/Lucille_Balls_Humility__Pride.mp3 6.15 – Presenting Margaret Cho https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/presenting-margaret-cho 11.1 – SNL's Gilda Radner: A Life Celebrated in Film https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/snls-gilda-radner-a-life-celebrated-in-film   Book recommendations: Joan Rivers (1986) Enter Talking and Carol Burnett (2011) This Time Together   Learn more about Moms Mabley https://nmaahc.si.edu/moms-mabley   TV series Ellen (1994-98) S.4, e 22 The Puppy Episode https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xnty3f   WI Public Radio interview with Hacks creators https://www.wpr.org/culture/hacks-co-creators-on-their-emmy-winning-comedy-show

Look no further than TV news anchor Connie Chung's groundbreaking career for the textbook definition of representation. Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams explores Chung's impact as a trailblazing Chinese-American journalist through the lens of her 2024 memoir, Connie, A Memoir. This episode revisits Chung's rise through national television journalism, her lasting legacy, and her influence on American culture—including the surprise moment during her 2024 appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show, where young women named Connie honored her inspiration. Cynthia also reflects on Chung's open letter in The Washington Post, written in support of Dr. Christine Blasey Ford during the Kavanaugh hearings, and how Chung's career helped define resilience in the face of systemic barriers.   Episode Quote: “There's no better definition of representation than the career of Connie Chung.”   Connie: A Memoir https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/connie-chung/connie/9781668639528/   Past Advanced TV Herstory ep about Connie Chung The Women Who Reported Watergate https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/women-who-reported-watergate   The Kelly Clarkson Show Nov. 2024 https://youtu.be/9j97G7bXwCw?si=oTiCc-sXcauJUkpi   Chung's open letter in The Washington Post as reported in Time Magazine  https://time.com/5414736/connie-chung-letter/

Cynthia Bemis Abrams sits down with Oscar-nominated documentary director Julie Cohen to explore her career in network TV journalism and filmmaking. The conversation covers Cohen's path to power as a storyteller, highlighting her work on films about Pauli Murray, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Julia Child. Cohen shares insights into her acclaimed projects, including: RBG (2018): The documentary about Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, which gained widespread recognition. My Name is Pauli Murray (2021): A film on the groundbreaking but lesser-known civil rights activist and attorney. Every Body (2023): A documentary about the intersex rights movement and personal narratives. The episode also highlights Julia Child's pioneering influence on television and women's roles in professional kitchens. Cohen discusses Child's legacy as a feminist figure and the impact of her political activism, particularly regarding reproductive rights and HIV/AIDS awareness. Julie Cohen actively promotes her latest documentary, The Path Forward (2024). The Power of Storytelling in Documentaries Why she chose to spotlight Pauli Murray, RBG, and Julia Child Challenges in structuring historical narratives into compelling film stories Overcoming obstacles in starting and funding documentary projects Julia Child's Television Legacy How Julia Child revolutionized TV cooking shows The impact of her work on modern food media figures like Martha Stewart, Ina Garten, and Rachael Ray Her hidden activism and why her political legacy is often overlooked The feminist undertones in Child's career and influence on women in professional kitchens Behind the Scenes of Every Body (2023) How Cohen approached the intersex rights movement in her documentary Personal stories shared in the film and their broader significance Julie Cohen's Films: Julia (2021):  https://imagine-entertainment.com/documentary/julia/ The Path Forward (2024): https://deadline.com/video/the-path-forward-trailer-julie-cohen-mo-husseini-documentary/ My Name is Pauli Murray (2021): https://www.theguardian.com/film/2021/sep/15/my-name-is-pauli-murray-review-the-legacy-of-a-fearless-campaigner RBG (2018): https://www.magpictures.com/rbg/ Every Body (2023): https://www.focusfeatures.com/every-body To book a screening of A Path Forward : https://grasshopperfilm.com/(grasshopperfilm.com) . By Spring 2025, it will be available on paid streaming channels, including Apple+.

In this episode of Advanced TV Herstory, host Cynthia Bemis Abrams is joined by author Angela Beauchamp to explore how Eleanor Roosevelt, a trailblazing communicator, shaped early public affairs programming. They discuss Roosevelt's prolific media presence, from her “My Day” newspaper column and radio broadcasts to her groundbreaking television appearances. The conversation highlights how Roosevelt's political influence extended beyond her time as First Lady, using media to engage the public and advocate for change. Angela Beauchamp shares insights from her book Eleanor Roosevelt on Screen: The First Lady's Appearances in Film and Television, 1932-1962, detailing the evolution of Roosevelt's on-screen presence and her pioneering role as a media influencer. Podcast Episode Plot Summary Eleanor Roosevelt's impact on early television was groundbreaking. Stemming from Roosevelt's popular writings and radio presence, she redefined how public figures connected with audiences. Cynthia and Angela discuss Roosevelt's pioneering of television public affairs programming as host of shows with major guests, and remaining a worldwide cultural icon following World War II .  Key topics include: Roosevelt's transition from radio to television and the significance of her “My Day” column Television appearances on Meet the Press, Prospects of Mankind, and Today with Mrs. Roosevelt Her candid views on political figures like JFK and Richard Nixon and how those views influenced public discourse Behind-the-scenes details from her 1950s public affairs shows, from set designs to guest curation This episode celebrates Roosevelt's contributions to television and her legacy as a woman who reshaped political and cultural dialogue through media. Episode Life Lessons: Leadership through visibility: Eleanor Roosevelt used media as a tool for public service and advocacy. Persistence breaks barriers: Roosevelt's transition from radio to television set a standard for women in public discourse. Cultural legacy matters: Media coverage can preserve and extend a public figure's influence across generations. Episode Resources Referenced Shows and Networks: Meet the Press Prospects of Mankind (1959–1962) Mrs. Roosevelt Meets the Public (1950–1951) Today with Mrs. Roosevelt (1950) Related Episodes: FLOTUS on TV: Roosevelt & Ford (1.25) https://traffic.libsyn.com/advancedtvherstory/FLOTUSes_on_TV_-_Roosevelt_Ford.mp3 Resources:   Media History Project https://mediahistoryproject.org/ Eleanor Roosevelt on Screen: The First Lady's Appearances in Film and Television, 1932–1962 by Angela Beauchamp https://mcfarlandbooks.com/product/eleanor-roosevelt-on-screen/ Pastor Hall https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pastor_Hall Blanche Wiesen Cook (ER biographer) https://blanchewcook.com/ Eleanor Roosevelt Paper's Project at George Washington University https://erpapers.columbian.gwu.edu/

Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams and filmmaker Lisa D'Apolito pick up the conversation about documentaries, this time about Gilda Radner and the 2018 film, Love, Gilda. In fall 2024, Lisa was a guest along with Mallory Lewis to discuss the documentary, Shari and Lamb Chop.  Lisa's journey from acting to filmmaking - shorts and feature length. Telling the life stories of women whose accomplishments and impact have been overlooked. Gilda's diaries about her long quest for a diagnosis. Comedians interviewed for the film like Amy Poehler, Maya Rudolf, Bill Hader and Melissa McCarthy expressed awe and sanctity to read Gilda's journals and writings. Lisa D'Apolito building trust with Gilda's friends and family to obtain access to preserved tapes and documents. Archiving video tape from personal collections. Lisa's interview with Gilda's widower, Gene Wilder and how the time with him was spent. The film's premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival (NYC) introduction by Tina Fey. https://youtu.be/1B44XRFotuo?si=JjYYdMIzU5iG0QHz DVD: Love, Gilda https://www.target.com/p/love-gilda-dvd-2018/-/A-90690431   Book: It's Always Something, by Gilda Radner (1989) https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Its-Always-Something/Gilda-Radner/9781439148860 Advanced TV Herstory 2024 episode on film, Shari and Lamb Chop https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/shari-lewis-reinventions-a-documentary-on-legacy-and-talent Guest and Host Information Newsletter: https://tvherstory.com/ Website: https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/ Podcast Archive: https://tvherstory.com/ Instagram: @advancedtvherstory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory Bluesky Social: https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social Production Credits: Video Production: https://nivialopez.com/ Audio Editing: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ Music: https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

Episode Description Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams takes listeners to The Paley Center for Media in New York City, exploring its role in preserving television history and hosting key industry events like PaleyFest. Cynthia dives into The Paley Archive during her visit, her top destination. She recounts her observations while watching the iconic 1973 broadcast of Billie Jean King versus Bobby Riggs in the historic "Battle of the Sexes." Listen in as Cynthia unpacks the significance of the archive, her first searches in the database, and her candid reactions to Howard Cosell's commentary alongside Rosie Casals and Gene Scott.   Episode Life Lessons Age, training, and mental resilience were crucial to Billie Jean King's performance. The significance of preserving history for future generations to learn and reflect. How cultural artifacts like sports broadcasts shape societal conversations on gender and equality. Episode Resources Battle of the Sexes: King vs. Riggs 1973 (1.6) - https://traffic.libsyn.com/advancedtvherstory/Battle_of_the_Sexes_092217.mp3 TV's Smiling Feminist: Dinah Shore - https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/tvs-smiling-feminist-dinah-shore The Paley Center for Media Website - https://www.paleycenter.org/ YouTube upload of 1973 broadcast https://youtu.be/R9C5XNREzNg?si=4O9Nv5K8ynL30ur0   Cynthia Bemis Abrams and Advanced TV Herstory ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/  Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com Email - advancedtvherstory@gmail.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia Bluesky Social - https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social Production Video - Nivia Lopez - https://nivialopez.com/ Audio - Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ Music - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/  

In this episode of Advanced TV Herstory, host Cynthia Bemis Abrams speaks with Karly Beaumont, creator of Core Temp Arts and contributor to TV Movie Mistress, about the comforting power of television. As a Dominican native and lifelong creative, Karly shares her journey as a podcaster and media critic, offering insights into how shows like Bluey, You're the Worst, and UnREAL are her emotional touchstones during challenging times. Cynthia and Karly probe ways to navigate this time of uncertainty, including listening to understand and recognizing signs of fear.  Damian Ali of TalkTeaV contributes a timely message about inclusion and storytelling in today's TV landscape.   TalkTeaV by Damian Ali https://www.talkteav.com/ Core Temp Arts Network's Talking Shondaland podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-shondaland/id918881317 TV Movie Mistress Podcast https://tvmoviemistress.wordpress.com/   Episode Life Lessons: Listening to understand, not just to reply. The importance of representation and inclusivity in media. How comfort TV offers healing during times of crisis. Guest & Host Information: Karly Beaumont: Instagram @karlyvision | Bluesky @karlybeaumont.bsky.social Damian Ali: Visit TalkTeaV ATVH Newsletter: tvherstory.com Website: cynthiabemisabrams.com Podcast Archive: tvherstory.com Instagram: @advancedtvherstory YouTube: Advanced TV Herstory Channel Facebook: Media.Cynthia Bluesky Social: Cynthia Bemis Abrams Production Credits: Video Production: Nivia Lopez Audio Editing: Marilou Marosz Music: Jahzzar - Free Music Archive

This episode delves into the 2024 documentary Shari and Lamb Chop, which explores the legacy of Shari Lewis through interviews with family, colleagues, and fans. Cynthia Bemis Abrams, along with guests Mallory Lewis and Lisa D'Apolito, examine Shari's ability to adapt and succeed in different roles throughout her career. From her work in children's television with iconic characters like Lamb Chop, to her contributions to the broader entertainment industry, Shari's talent for reinvention made her a trailblazer. This episode also touches on Shari's philosophical and feminist views, offering listeners insight into the woman behind the puppet. Mallory Lewis continues Shari's work, taking Lamb Chop on the road to entertain audiences across the country. Lisa D'Apolito, the documentary's director was also a force behind the acclaimed Love, Gilda, about the life of comedian Gilda Radner.  RELEVANT EPISODES Kids' TV Pioneers Shari Lewis and Lamb Chop featuring Mallory Lewis https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/kids-tv-pioneers-shari-lewis-and-lambchop-featuring-mallory-lewis Shari Lewis & Lamb Chop's Impact on Kids TV https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/shari-lewis-lamb-chops-impact-on-kids-tv THE DOCUMENTARY Website - https://www.shariandlambchopdoc.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/shariandlambchopfilm/ MALLORY, LAMB CHOP & LISA Mallory Lewis and Lamb Chop - https://mallorylewisandlambchop.com/ Lamb Chop on TikTok - @yourfavlambchop Lisa D'Apolito IMDB - https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0200854/ Lisa's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-d-apolito-2a161920/ MENTIONS David Copperfield - https://www.davidcopperfield.com/html/ Megan Piphus Peace - https://www.meganpiphus.com/ Darci Lynne Farmer - https://www.darcilynne.com/ Center for Puppetry Arts - https://puppet.org/ CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS AND ATVH ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/  Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com Email - advancedtvherstory@gmail.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia Bluesky Social - https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social PRODUCTION Video - Nivia Lopez - https://nivialopez.com/ Audio - Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ Music - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/  

In the last 10-20 years, attitudes toward LGBTQ+ people in America have shifted due to more positive visibility and evolving cultural norms. Cynthia takes a look at two moments from 1970s television that revealed glimpses of LGBTQ+ allyship—a talk show moment and a 1974 episode of Police Woman. In 1970, June Lockhart appeared on The Virginia Graham Show and stopped the hostess in her tracks, pushing back on stereotypes and tropes common for the time. And the story of how a 54-year-old clip is available for viewing is its own testament to advocacy. LGBTQ+ scholar and media documentarian Steven Capsuto's book, Alternate Channels, helped Cynthia connect the June Lockhart dot to an episode of Police Woman.  Capsuto's book is an essential work for every media, gender, and social justice scholar. He traces television and even radio's early depiction of mostly gay characters and the absence of lesbians. His book also details the LGBTQ+ community's organization and support from straight allies that fought against distorted and ugly depictions of gay and lesbian characters in television and film for more than 75 years. The overall trend in American society has been toward greater understanding and support for LGBTQ+ people and this is, to a significant degree, the result of advocates and allies pushing for more positive and diverse characterizations in popular culture. Television largely ignored lesbians until the 1970s and even then, the characters were bitter, violent, and unstable. With just a few sentences, June Lockhart, in real life, and Angie Dickinson, as Sgt. Pepper Anderson, showed viewers the power of LGBTQ+ allyship.  STEVEN CAPSUTO Website - http://alternatechannels.net/ Alternate Channels, 20th Anniversary Revised Edition (2020) by Steven Capsuto http://alternatechannels.net/book/ MENTIONS June Lockhart, Virginia Graham, Angie Dickinson, Rev. Troy Perry, Art Metrano, Donna Mills, Lois Nettleton, Randy Wicker, Judy Garland, Meet Me in St. Louis, Lassie, Lost in Space, Petticoat Junction, General Hospital, Quincy M.E., Police Woman, The Bold Ones, Medical Center, Charlie's Angels, Cagney & Lacey, The Kinsey Report, Stonewall, HIV/AIDS, Metropolitan Community Church CLIPS The Virginia Graham Show, with June Lockhart and Rev. Troy Perry (1970)  https://youtu.be/Xm2q-F6FdoY?si=35Z6kF8pN4rQotjd Police Woman, Flowers of Evil, S1E8 (1974) https://youtu.be/o6oBmnhsblA?si=U-_5nIvhYSQyLLPo CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS AND ATVH ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/  Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com Email - advancedtvherstory@gmail.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia Bluesky Social - https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social PRODUCTION Video - Nivia Lopez - https://nivialopez.com/ Audio - Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ Music - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/  

I love to talk TV and I really enjoy every exchange with Susan and Sharon, otherwise known as the 80s TV Ladies. When their podcast, 80s TV Ladies, launched, they invited me to be a guest. It was a blast and over the last two years, the two podcasts have furthered a shared exploration of how women have been represented on television and the impact that representation has had on society as a whole and females, of all ages, in particular. Like Advanced TV Herstory, their show features interviews and analyzes the work of women both in front of and behind the camera. Our podcasts aim to help listeners understand how our culture shapes the television shows we watch and, in turn, how those shows shape our culture. Listen in on this engaging and informative look behind the scenes as we discuss the motivations, joys, and challenges of creating podcasts that highlight the contributions of women in television. 80s TV LADIES   Contacts Website – 80s TV Ladies - https://www.80stvladies.com/  Website – 134 West - https://134west.biz/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/80sTVLadies/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/80stvladies/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@80stvladies  Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/80sTVLadies   Awards 2024 Women in Podcasting, Nominee in Entertainment – VOTE at https://womeninpodcasting.net/80s-tv-ladies/     2024 Webby Award – Best Indie Podcast   2023 People's Choice Podcast Awards - Best Art, Best TV & Film, Best Female Hosted    MENTIONS   Podcast Episodes 80s TV Ladies (24 May 2023) – Advanced TV Herstory w/ Cynthia Bemis Abrams, Part One - https://www.80stvladies.com/episode/episode-201-welcome-to-season-2-advanced-tv-herstory-w-cynthia-bemis-abram-part-1   80s TV Ladies (31 May 2023) – Advanced TV Herstory w/ Cynthia Bemis Abrams, Part Two - https://www.80stvladies.com/episode/episode-202-advanced-tv-herstory-aw-cynthia-bemis-abrams-part-two   Wiser Than Me with Julia Louis-Dreyfus (11 Apr 2023) – Jane Fonda on Female Friendships - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jane-fonda-on-female-friendships/id1678559416?i=1000608248297   Shows Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Cagney and Lacey, China Beach, Designing Women, Extraordinary Attorney Woo, Grey's Anatomy, Lou Grant, My So-Called Life, Murphy Brown, Remington Steele, and Scarecrow and Mrs. King    People Annie Potts, Barney Rosenzweig, Diane English, Eilish Zebrasky, Eugenie Ross-Leming, Geena Davis, Jean Smart, Juanita Bartlett, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Linda Bloodworth-Thomason, Melissa Roth, Neema Barnette, Sergio Perez, Sharon Gless, Shonda Rhimes, Stephanie Zimbalist, and Tyne Daly    Books  Backlash: The Undeclared War Against American Women by Susan Faludi - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Backlash:_The_Undeclared_War_Against_American_Women    Lou Grant: The Making of TV's Top Newspaper Drama by Douglass K. Daniel – https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/288376.Douglass_K_Daniel    CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS AND ATVH ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/  Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com Email - advancedtvherstory@gmail.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia Bluesky Social - https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social PRODUCTION Video - Nivia Lopez - https://nivialopez.com/ Audio - Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ Music - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/  

Welcome to our annual anniversary episode where I share thoughts on the podcast's evolution —improvements, opportunities, and what's in store for the future. With this look back at the podcast highlights and TV moments that have taught us and inspired us, I also recommit to our mission:  Connecting the dots of feminism & TV and American politics & culture. Can you believe we're heading into our 10th year?! When I started the podcast in 2015, I wasn't sure where Advanced TV Herstory would go. But it's important to reflect on one's work, solicit and discuss feedback, and provide context for viewing the cultural mirror that defines American television. In today's environment, simply put, this work feels more vital than ever. About that feedback. How are we doing? What can we do better? What topics are of particular interest to you? Please connect at any of the resources listed below. Better yet, subscribe to the Advanced TV Herstory newsletter for special content and a more personalized space to explore and exchange. Your information is NEVER shared and, like the podcast, our newsletter is completely ad free.  As always, thank you for listening and being part of the Advanced TV Herstory community. Cheers to another year! CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS AND ATVH ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/  Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com Email - advancedtvherstory@gmail.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia Bluesky Social - https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social PRODUCTION Video - Nivia Lopez - https://nivialopez.com/ Audio - Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ Music - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/  

Della Reese (1931-2017) was a singer, talk show host, actor, ordained minister, and much more. Her career, which spanned seven decades, was marked by faith, resilience, and her ability to break barriers in predominantly white and male-dominated industries.  In 1969, Ms. Reese made history as the first black woman to host her own talk show. Almost more variety show than talk show, every episode offered an entertaining mix of sketch comedy, music, and interviews.  Before her own talk show, Ms. Reese established herself as a prominent television personality by appearing and performing on shows led by Merv Griffin, Ed Sullivan, Phil Donahue, and Johnny Carson. In fact, she was chosen as the first black woman to sub for Johnny Carson as host of the Tonight Show. But aside from her earlier accomplishments, Ms. Reese is perhaps best known to today's audiences for her popular television series, “Touched by an Angel,” where she appeared with Roma Downey, John Dye, Valerie Bertinelli, and a guest cast that featured many of the biggest names in television and film. In her 1997 memoir, “Angels Along the Way: My Life with Help from Above,” Ms. Reese reflects on the challenges she faced and overcame throughout her life, including racism and financial exploitation, while maintaining a steadfast commitment to helping others. It's an inspirational look at a remarkable life. RESOURCES Touched by an Angel https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0108968/ Angels Along the Way: My Life with Help from Above https://www.betterworldbooks.com/product/detail/angels-along-the-way-my-life-with-help-from-above-9780399143427 Television Academy Foundation – Foundation Interviews: Della Reese on Having a Brain Aneurysm https://youtu.be/kw0tsFyZO5w?si=Qtqsw WSyHyjrh6H7 CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS AND ATVH ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/  Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia Bluesky Social - https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social PRODUCTION Video - Nivia Lopez - https://nivialopez.com/ Audio - Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ Music - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/  

This Mother's Day we celebrate the women who raise us, nurture and help us find our inner strength and outer voice. Typically, they are our mothers or stepmothers—but they also can be foster moms, grandparents, neighbors, dance teachers—any woman who holds a mirror up to our potential. They often enter our lives without warning and change us forever—though sometimes it takes years for us to realize it.  These are my thoughts on Victoria Rowell's compelling 2007 memoir, “The Women Who Raised Me.” Ms. Rowell spent her youth in the foster care system. But with the help of many dedicated and caring women, she became an accomplished dancer and successful actor. Her memoir is a tribute to the women who raised her, and she describes them in loving and vivid detail.   “I was never meant to be raised by one mother, but by many.”  -Victoria Rowell  Ms. Rowell is a two-time Emmy Award nominee and has received 11 NAACP Image Awards. She is perhaps best known for her 20+ years on “The Young and the Restless” and eight seasons on “Diagnosis: Murder.” Rowell continues to act (look for “Summer Camp” in theaters May 31, 2024) and write, direct, and produce. Additionally, she has been recognized for her work with foster children and advocacy for education, the arts, and mental health awareness, support, and treatment.  As always, thank you for listening to Advanced TV Herstory. And, as we celebrate Mother's Day and National Foster Care Month, please show your gratitude to the women in your life. You know who they are. RESOURCES The Women Who Raised Me: A Memoir by Victoria Rowell https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-women-who-raised-me-victoria-rowell/1100571768 Victoria Rowell: Featured Speaker for the Paul & Louise Miller Lecture Series https://youtu.be/A2CrcdUXRv8?si=Cow9hEBhED1jGMLx National Foster Care Month https://www.childwelfare.gov/fostercaremonth/ Summer Camp (in theaters 31 May 2024) https://www.imdb.com/title/tt26928684/?ref_=nm_flmg_unrel_1_act CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS AND ATVH ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/  Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia Bluesky Social - https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social PRODUCTION Video - Nivia Lopez - https://nivialopez.com/ Audio - Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ Music - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/  

On location at the Pop Culture Association (PCA) National Conference in Chicago, I met with Sherry Ginn, PhD, the current PCA president. Dr. Ginn is an impressive pop culture and science fiction scholar and I'm grateful that we were able to sit down and talk about our mutual interests in television and the impact of women in society.  Our discussion includes the evolution of science fiction in popular culture, the legacy of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, the problem with Dollhouse, female representation and role models, feminism, diversity, inclusion, norm breaking, and the special challenges created by male writers and showrunners in science fiction.    As a tireless editor and author, Dr. Ginn combines her love of sci-fi with her expertise in neuroscience research and psychology. Her written work presents thoughtful analyses on a range of previously under-explored topics such as women in science fiction television and sex in science fiction. Dr. Ginn has written or edited works featuring Doctor Who, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Farscape, Fringe, and Dollhouse, among others. Check out the Pop Culture Association's website below to learn more about the benefits of membership. Thanks for listening! CONTACT DR. GINN and the POP CULTURE ASSOCIATION* Website - https://pcaaca.org/ e-mail - sherry@pcaaca.org  *formerly the Pop Culture Association / American Culture Association SELECT WRITTEN WORKS  Our Space, Our Place: Women in the Worlds of Science Fiction Television by Sherry Ginn, PhD - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2085421.Our_Space_Our_Place  Joss Whedon's Dollhouse: Confounding Purpose, Confusing Identity by Sherry Ginn, PhD - https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/joss-whedons-dollhouse-sherry-ginn/1118329342 Power and Control in the Television Worlds of Joss Whedon by Sherry Ginn, PhD - https://www.acappellabooks.com/pages/books/228952/sherry-ginn/power-and-control-in-the-television-worlds-of-joss-whedon Being a Girl with The Doctor: Essays in the Feminine in Doctor Who (Edited by Gillian I. Leitch and Sherry Ginn) - https://mcfarlandbooks.com/product/being-a-girl-with-the-doctor/ To Boldly Stay: Essays on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (Edited by Sherry Ginn and Michael G. Cornelius) - https://mcfarlandbooks.com/product/to-boldly-stay/ The Sex is Out of This World: Essays on the Carnal Side of Science Fiction (Edited by Sherry Ginn and Michael G. Cornelius) - https://www.abebooks.com/9780786466856/Sex-Out-World-Essays-Carnal-0786466855/plp CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/  Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia Bluesky Social - https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social PRODUCTION Audio - Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ Music - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/  

We continue to celebrate the female voices that have provided a foundation for cultural advancement and modern discourse by featuring a rare TV talk show appearance by two-time Academy Award winner Vivien Leigh.  The year was 1958. The show was “Small World,” hosted by American broadcast journalist Edward R. Murrow. Appearing alongside Ms. Leigh are motion picture executive Samuel Goldwyn and British writer and entertainment critic Kenneth Tynan.  Ms. Leigh, best known for her work as Scarlett O'Hara in “Gone with the Wind” and Blanche DuBois in “A Streetcar Named Desire,” died in 1967 at the age of 53, but her legacy remains profound. And, while some of the opinions in this broadcast would be considered outdated now, you'll hear that Ms. Leigh was not afraid to mix it up with some of the most strident male voices of her day. As always, thank you for listening. For the video version of this episode, visit @advancedtvherstory on YouTube.    RESOURCES Small World, Part 1 https://youtu.be/4c6kR9ORqUc?si=sXmP3bg5Cqzs63Zu Small World, Part 2 https://youtu.be/P5roaRH9rY0?si=gfMmZhJTtrqdY85l Small World, Part 3 https://youtu.be/tG0x68lPzso?si=TMitHcgm45BVl3Pf Taylor Mayes - https://www.youtube.com/@Taylormayes   CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS AND ATVH ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/  Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia Bluesky Social - https://bsky.app/profile/cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social   PRODUCTION Video - Nivia Lopez - https://nivialopez.com/ Audio - Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ Music - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/  

Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams welcomes Yvonne Perry to Advanced TV Herstory. Yvonne is an award-winning actor, drama teacher, director, and intimacy coordinator. In addition to her work in film and primetime television, she originated the role of Rosanna Cabot on "As the World Turns." Yvonne's experience in daytime TV, with its groundbreaking storylines and thoughtful intimacy handling, has informed her approach to work today.  Cynthia and Yvonne reflect on the wins in the 2023 SAG-AFTRA contract, including new standards and protocols for the use of intimacy coordinators. Yvonne discusses her experience working in this emerging field and the value of providing a respectful and collaborative environment for actors, directors, and crew members.  Yvonne also shares fun and informative stories from along her career path, including an important lesson she learned as Rosanna Cabot, her first kiss in front of the camera, the relationship between fight choreography and intimacy direction, what major league ballplayers think about daytime TV, and much more.    It's a lively and interesting discussion from an insider's point of view. Thank you for listening!  [February 6, 2024 - This episode has been edited to include Alicia Rodis' contribution to the field of intimacy direction and coordinating.] YVONNE PERRY Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/YvonnePerryHulbert Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/yvonneperryh/ Website - https://www.yvonneperry.com/ RESOURCES and MENTIONS Intimacy Directors & Coordinators - https://www.idcprofessionals.com/ Jessica Steinrock, PhD, Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intimacy_coordinator_ Jessica Steinrock, PhD, TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@intimacycoordinator?/ Alicia Rodis - https://www.idcprofessionals.com/bios/aliciarodis CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/  Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia Bluesky Social - @cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social  

In this special episode, Cynthia Bemis Abrams is joined by guest co-host Ashley Pacini for the Parade of Accomplished Women 2023. Instead of a somber “in memoriam,” we're bringing you a celebration of the talented, influential women who helped shape the television industry. In this second part of our tribute, we highlight the women of daytime, the often-overlooked creatives working behind the scenes, and—new this year—the women of reality shows. It is especially difficult to preserve the legacy of lesser-known women in an ever-expanding industry, but their influence is no less important. That's why we consider this a call to action. We lost these women over the past year, but we must not lose the memory of them or their contributions to television history. Thank you for joining us as we honor the enduring spirit of women in television. THE REEL WOMEN Ashley Pacini on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleypacini/ Website - https://thereelwomen.com/ Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@thereelwomen Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thereelwomen/?hl=en Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thereelwomen/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thereelwomen AUDIO CLIPS and REFERENCES Clips have been edited for length. Remembering Jacklyn Zeman (General Hospital) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CLfhlDtk-x0 Ellen Holly on Being at the March on Washington in 1963 (Foundation Interviews) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Aige_YvQGU Ellen Holly on her New York Times article “How Black Do You Have to Be?” (Foundation Interviews) -  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IkEmOWaiWF4 How Black Do You Have to Be (NY Times, 1968) - https://www.nytimes.com/1968/09/15/archives/how-black-do-you-have-to-be-how-black-do-you-have-to-be.html The Colors of Black (NY Times, 1968) - https://www.nytimes.com/1968/10/06/archives/the-colors-of-black.html CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/  Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia Bluesky Social - @cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social  

OUT in 2024 - "In Memoriam" IN - Parade of Accomplished Women  This is the first of our two-part celebration of some of the talented, influential females we lost in 2023.   Guest co-host Ashley Pacini of The Reel Women joins host Cynthia Bemis Abrams for this discussion. The Reel Women interviews and profiles women in the industry to increase visibility and opportunity for the next generation of women who want to work in television, film, and media.  Cynthia and Ashley pay respects to the creatives who played pivotal roles in front of, and behind, the cameras. In addition to well-known names, they honor women who hustled for years as largely unheralded day players, others who stepped up to provide representation of the unseen, and several who risked their careers to speak truth to power. While we can't feature all the remarkable women who died in 2023, we believe it's important to highlight the contributions and careers that might otherwise go unnoticed so that they are not lost to history.  Thank you for listening and be sure to tune in to the second half of Parade of Accomplished Women 2023. THE REEL WOMEN Ashley Pacini on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleypacini/ Website - https://thereelwomen.com/ Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@thereelwomen Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thereelwomen/?hl=en Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thereelwomen/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thereelwomen AUDIO CLIPS and REFERENCES Sinead O'Connor - https://youtu.be/8LcmJErI8IQ Inga Swenson - https://youtu.be/-4hjBu23hws Cindy Williams - https://youtu.be/d-PlT-sHRTE Behind the Velvet Rope Podcast - https://www.youtube.com/@behindthevelvetrope CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/  Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia Bluesky Social - @cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social    

Welcome to the next episode in our special series on TV Talk Shows. Big talk show moments, especially the controversial ones, provide snapshots that we can use to examine our politics and culture at a singular point in time. Some of the moments we discuss in this series may be unfamiliar to you or they may seem obscure or forgotten, but that's the point. We're here to preserve TV Herstory. Today, when alternative facts are part of our daily life, it's especially instructive to look back more than 40 years at a grudge match over Truth and Reputation that played out on The Dick Cavett Show in 1980 and beyond. The combatants were two opinionated, strong-willed women: playwright/author Lillian Hellman and novelist/critic Mary McCarthy. Thank you for listening to Advanced TV Herstory. I encourage you to learn more about these women starting with the resources below.   RESOURCES FOR LILLIAN HELLMAN https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lillian_Hellman Plays: The Little Foxes; The Children's Hour; Watch on the Rhein; Days to Come Books and Memoirs: An Unfinished Woman: A Memoir; Pentimento; Scoundrel Time About Lillian Hellman: C-SPAN's American History TV episode on Lillian Hellman Rollyson, Carl (1989) Lillian Hellman: Her Legend and Her Legacy Kessler-Harris, Alice (2012) The Challenging Life and Times of Lillian Hellman Gallagher, Dorothy (2014) Lillian Hellman: An Imperious Life      RESOURCES FOR MARY McCARTHY https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_McCarthy_(author) Books & Memoirs: Memories of a Catholic Girlhood; The Stones of Florence; The Group; Cannibals and Missionaries About Mary McCarthy: Kiernan, Frances (2002) Seeing Mary Plain: A Life of Mary McCarthy Brightman, Carol (1992) Writing Dangerously: Mary McCarthy and Her World Gelderman, Carol (1988) Mary McCarthy: A Life    INLINE RESOURCES https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5OfKEjABGGY Theatre Talk: Hellman v. McCarthy - CUNY TV Guests: Dick Cavett, Roberta Maxwell, Marcia Rodd Hosts: Michael Riedel, Susan Haskins    CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/  Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ X (Twitter) - https://twitter.com/tvherstoryB Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia Bluesky Social - @cynthiabemisabrams.bsky.social

We know her as Meemaw, Mary Jo Shively, Emmie Sims, and the voice of Bo Peep. But Annie Potts is hooked on helping others—she's very hands on—and she's here to tell us about that part of her life. In doing so, she inspires us with her commitment and challenges us to “turn the car around.” Annie's charitable organization, The Heart Channels, provides direct support quickly and creatively to people at critical crossroads in their life. Its mission reflects what Annie witnessed growing up—that wherever there was a need, people opened their hearts and quietly stepped in to help however they could.   The Heart Channels also mirrors Annie's belief that we are one human family, no matter where on the planet we are. By opening our eyes to the needs of others, we can respond lovingly and immediately—neighbor to neighbor and heart to heart. I hope you'll join us for this very special discussion. And please consider helping out. All donations to The Heart Channels—100%—are tax deductible and go directly to people in need. FOLLOW AND DONATE TO THE HEART CHANNELS The Heart Channels - https://www.theheartchannels.org/ On Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/theheartchannels On Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theheartchannels/ CONNECT WITH ANNIE POTTS Cameo (all proceeds go to The Heart Channels) - https://www.cameo.com/anniepotts Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thisisanniepotts/?hl=en CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY ATVH Newsletter – tvherstory.com Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/ Podcast Archive - tvherstory.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured PRODUCTION Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

Join host Cynthia Bemis Abrams as she launches a new limited series, TV Talk Shows, part of the Advanced TV Herstory podcast.  In this first episode, Cynthia delves into a study that reveals women are more prominently featured in unscripted television shows than in scripted ones—another example of the industry's inclination to front women in projects that are less expensive to produce. She also touches on the recent strikes by SAG-AFTRA and the WGA, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and representation in scripted television. Cynthia then outlines the focus of the TV Talk Shows series, which will explore the historical context, memorable moments, and surprising controversies surrounding unscripted hosts and guests. The episode concludes by acknowledging the pioneering achievements of Della Reese as the first black woman to fill in for Johnny Carson on The Tonight Show and Betty White's stance against the broadcast network executives who were reluctant to feature performers of color on her 1950s talk and variety show.  RESOURCES  Foundation Interviews - Della Reese on Guest Hosting “The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson” - https://youtu.be/M8hfse64sFU?si=8cIu3DrRN2AIdiBL The Television Academy Foundation – Della Reese - https://interviews.televisionacademy.com/interviews/della-reese  “He Stays”: Betty White refused to remove Black dancer from her show in 1954 - https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/celebrities/2022/01/01/betty-white-black-dancer-arthur-duncan/9067252002/  Retro Televisions – The Betty White Show (11-29-54) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7k23zM-eLoI CBS Los Angeles KCAL - https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/women-more-represented-on-reality-tv-than-scripted-shows-sdsu-report-finds/ CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY ATVH Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/ Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/  Podcast Archive - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/advanced-tv-herstory Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured PRODUCTION Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

Advanced TV Herstory's commitment to connecting the dots of TV & feminism and American politics & culture continues with an examination of the pioneering women writers during the early days of TV. My guest, Annie Berke, PhD, is the author of Their Own Best Creations: Women Writers in Postwar Television, part of the Feminist Media Histories book series by the University of California Press.  With a focus on 1949-1963, Dr. Berke's foundational work appeals to scholars and students as well as others with an interest in gender roles, women in the workplace, and the cultural influence of women in media.   Along with a review of under-studied and influential women writers profiled in the book, our discussion leads to some interesting places, including the emergence of second-wave feminism and how postwar and current-day writers share many of the same struggles. I know you'll enjoy this fun and fast-paced episode. Thank you for listening! CONNECT WITH ANNIE BERKE Website - https://www.annieberke.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annie-berke-ph-d-a102509/ Instagram, X (Twitter), and Bluesky - @sayanniething RESOURCES Pioneer Peg Lynch - https://around.uoregon.edu/content/library-exhibit-celebrates-legacy-tv-pioneer-peg-lynch The Broadcast 41 by Carol A. Stabile - https://broadcast41.uoregon.edu/ CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY ATVH Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/ Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/  Podcast Archive - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/advanced-tv-herstory Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured PRODUCTION Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

Cynthia Bemis Abrams welcomes Victoria Riskin, a second-generation filmmaker with a rich Hollywood legacy. Victoria's parents—Robert Riskin, a prolific, Oscar-winning screenwriter, and Fay Wray, best known for her role in the original King Kong—were instrumental in shaping the classic years of the motion picture industry. And Victoria has crafted an impressive career all her own. She is a producer, writer, digital magazine publisher, PhD in psychology, and past president of the Writers Guild of America (WGA). She shares her experiences as WGA president and explains how power has shifted over time to the imbalance that has writers and actors on strike now in 2023. We also learn how Victoria's father tried leveraging his success with the studios to improve conditions for writers in the 1930s, but ultimately joined the Screen Writers Guild (SWG) as an early, active member. And, on the lighter side, you won't want to miss Victoria's stories from her trip to China with Norman Lear, Mary Tyler Moore, Larry Gelbart, and Carl Reiner. Victoria knows Hollywood from deep inside. No doubt you'll enjoy the interesting history and fun stories she shares with us.  RESOURCES Victoria Riskin's website - https://www.victoriariskin.com/  Fay Wray and Robert Riskin: A Hollywood Memoir - https://www.victoriariskin.com/index.php/about Projections of America - http://projectionsofamerica.com/ The Last Best Year - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Last_Best_Year Bluedot Living -  https://bluedotliving.com/ CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY ATVH Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/ Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/  Podcast Archive - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/advanced-tv-herstory Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured PRODUCTION Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

Labor Day 2023 will mark the major event of a combined strike of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Screen Actors Guild—American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA). Both unions are currently led by women: Fran Drescher, Meredith Stiehm, and Lisa Takeuchi Cullen. Even prior to the two union merger in 2012, SAG and AFTRA had elected nine strong and inspiring women to lead their labor causes like health and pension benefits, residuals, and managing during COVID. The WGA, first led by a woman in 2001, represents writers on a myriad of issues like credit, contracts, and benefits. Today, these unions are on strike, with primary issues of artificial intelligence to create content and fabricate performers, and how payment formulas for writers and performers will be commensurate with successful streaming. Since the WGA declared its strike and actors followed, Advanced TV Herstory has stood resolutely with all the talented creators. This episode tells of the dedication to workers' rights and social progress within a distinct and complex business model. AUDIO CLIPS & RESOURCES Fran Drescher - https://youtu.be/J4SAPOX7R5M Gabrielle Carteris -  https://www.sagaftra.org/videos/president-gabrielle-carteris-discusses-sag-aftra%E2%80%99s-covid-19-efforts RCA Selectavision commercial - https://youtu.be/dFtyMNTD2f4 ABC7 in Los Angeles - https://abc7.com/wga-writers-guild-strike-rally/13303288/  https://www.sagaftra.org/ https://www.wga.org/ CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY ATVH Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/ Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/  Podcast Archive - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/advanced-tv-herstory Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured PRODUCTION Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

A lot has happened politically and culturally since this podcast launched eight years ago. In this anniversary episode, I celebrate a number of wins while also reflecting on the importance of learning from history to avoid repeating past mistakes. For example, Lee Grant, an Oscar and Emmy-winning actress, overcame being blacklisted during the anti-Communist era. Her resilience and courage in speaking out against injustice serve as a lesson for today. I also highlight the work of The Geena Davis Institute on Gender and Media, which has expanded its focus to champion inclusion of the six major identities of gender, race/ethnicity, LGBTQIA+, disability, age 50+, and body type in media and entertainment. In addition to looking back on some of Advanced TV Herstory's episodes from the past year, I celebrate ATVH's inclusion in IMDb and the anticipation of reaching a new audience. Because ATVH is not beholden to sponsors, I can proudly say that I provide an unfiltered view of both historical and current obstacles to full representation and valuation. Many of these obstacles are at the center of the ongoing strike by the Writers Guild and the use of artificial intelligence. With a commitment to recognizing the importance of representation and critical thinking in the face of rapidly changing media landscapes, I thank you for your support of this podcast over the last eight years and I look forward to uncovering and sharing more untold stories of women in the year to come. This is why I podcast.   MENTIONS AND REFERENCES I Said Yes to Everything by Lee Grant - https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/18693908 Intimate Portrait - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0896232/ CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS and ATVH ATVH Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/ Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/  Podcast Archive - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/advanced-tv-herstory Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured PRODUCTION Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

In the second of our two-part episode, host Cynthia Bemis Abrams continues talking with Elva Green about her book, "The Jeffersons: A Fresh Look Back," which offers insights, interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and rare photos from the iconic TV series.  Ms. Green reflects on one of the best episodes from the seventh season of the show, which featured a tour-de-force performance by Isabel Sanford (Louise Jefferson). We listen to classic interview clips: Marla Gibbs (Florence) assesses Ms. Sanford's contribution to the series and Ms. Sanford recounts her professional friendship with Zara Cully (Mother Jefferson). We also look back at Ms. Sanford's 1981 Emmy acceptance speech As with other programs under the guidance of Norman Lear, “The Jeffersons” appealed to a wide audience and often tackled serious, ground-breaking subject matter. Please join us as we discuss its legacy. SHOP AND CONNECT WITH ELVA GREEN The Jeffersons: A Fresh Look Back Eddie Green: The Rise of an Early 1900s Black American Entertainment Pioneer   https://bearmanor-digital.myshopify.com/search?q=elva+diane+green Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/elva.green.712/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/elva.green.712/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/elvagreen123/   AUDIO CLIPS Isabel Sanford Emmy Acceptance Speech - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUfFd1vNS4I Isabel Sanford on Zara Cully (and other castmates) - https://youtu.be/5wqimrfTBn0 Marla Gibbs on Isabel Sanford - https://youtu.be/6sdguNXxtBc   OTHER MENTIONS John McWhorter, PhD - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_McWhorter The Jeffersons: And the Doorknobs Shined Like Diamonds (S7 E13) - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0614811/ Guess Who's Coming to Dinner (1967) - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0061735/   CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/ Podcast Archive - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/advanced-tv-herstory Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured   PRODUCTION Podcast Editing by Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

In this first of a two-part episode of Advanced TV Herstory, host Cynthia Bemis Abrams welcomes Elva Green to discuss her book, "The Jeffersons: A Fresh Look Back." Ms. Green shares her personal journey as a writer and the impetus for the book, which offers insights, interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and rare photos from the iconic TV series. Ms. Green interviewed cast and crew members, including the legendary Norman Lear and the incomparable Marla Gibbs, who—after forming a bond with the author—agreed to write the foreword for the book. Ms. Green also speaks fondly of Berlinda Tolbert, Ernest Harden Jr., and others whose willingness to share stories and contacts enhanced her research and writing. Ms. Green's unconventional path to becoming an author began with her desire to inspire her grandson by writing about her father, Eddie Green, an early 1900s black American entertainment pioneer who achieved fame despite the challenges faced by African Americans in the first half of the last century. Listeners are encouraged to shop both of Ms. Green's books. They offer one-of-a-kind information for those interested in entertainment, black history, and well-crafted narratives. And be sure to tune into our next episode to learn more from Elva Green and her unexpected role in preserving the legacy of "The Jeffersons."   BOOKS BY ELVA GREEN The Jeffersons: A Fresh Look Back Eddie Green: The Rise of an Early 1900s Black American Entertainment Pioneer  https://bearmanor-digital.myshopify.com/search?q=elva+diane+green   AUDIO CLIPS The Jeffersons: The Best of Florence - https://youtu.be/pmxflexREKc Mother Jefferson Has a New Boyfriend - https://youtu.be/222kxW5mlbs Lionel and Jenny Kiss & Make Up - https://youtu.be/OuOLbOp2PHE   CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/ Podcast Archive - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/advanced-tv-herstory Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured   PRODUCTION Podcast Editing by Marilou Marosz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

Has “Cheers” aged well? Was Norm the norm in 1982? Was the toxic behavior in the show's Boston-based bar a device to expose the destructive nature of misogyny or was it just a casual reflection of a patriarchal system?   Carla Tortelli and Diane Chambers, the barmaids in the first season of the show, served as sparring partners for their coworkers, customers, and each other. Carla was at home at "Cheers." Diane was a fish out of water. Carla and Diane could not have been more different. But Rhea Perlman and Shelley Long, the actors who portrayed Carla and Diane, both were incredible actors with excellent comedic timing.    Cynthia Bemis Abrams takes a closer at their work and celebrates their contributions as two of the strong, female characters that emerged on television in the 1980s. She discusses the interplay among the regular characters at the bar, the foundational toxic environment, and the influence of female writers and showrunners on comedies of the era.   MENTIONS & REFERENCES  ATVH Newsletter - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/ Shelley Long interview - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNagwFVh9xs   CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY Website - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/  Podcast Archive - https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/advanced-tv-herstory Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured   PRODUCTION Podcast Editing - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariloumarosz/ Music by Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

I am very excited to share the second of a two-part conversation with author and TV/film historian, Lee Gambin. His double-volume work, "Tonight, On a Very Special Episode: When TV Sitcoms Sometimes Got Serious," provides a launch pad for our thoughtful and fast-paced discussion of the issues and activists behind TV's “very special episodes,” which date back 50 years or more.   These TV events—featuring familiar, beloved characters—mixed serious topics with comedy so effectively that, in many cases, activists were born, movements were started, legislation was passed, and minds were changed.   Legendary showrunners like Norman Lear and Linda Bloodworth-Thomason used the sitcom format to normalize awareness and discussion of race relations, women's issues, representation, discrimination, divorce, alcoholism and drug addiction, sexual assault, HIV/AIDS, and LGBTQ rights.   Fronting these issues shaped our culture in ways that should not be lost to history. Join us for a discussion of the iconic episodes and the legends who made them happen, as well as how they continue to impact us today.   CONNECT WITH LEE GAMBIN   Tonight, On A Very Special Episode: When TV Sitcoms Sometimes Got Serious Volume 1: 1957-1985   Tonight, On A Very Special Episode: When TV Sitcoms Sometimes Got Serious Volume 2: 1986-1998   Cinemaniacs   SOUND CLIPS   Diff'rent Strokes: The Bicycle Man (S5.E16-17)   Designing Women: Killing All the Right People (S2.E4)   All in The Family: Edith's 50th Birthday (S8.E4-5)   BOOKS / ARTICLES   Norman Lear Memoir - Even This I Get to Experience   PERTINENT EPISODES OF ADVANCED TV HERSTORY   Designing Women 1, Body-shaming 0   Sports Night: More Relevant Than Ever   Eating Disorder Movies: TV For and About Women   ATVH NEWSLETTER Sign up at https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/   CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY Website:  https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/ Podcasts:  https://cynthiabemisabrams.com/advanced-tv-herstory Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/advancedtvherstory/ Twitter:  https://twitter.com/tvherstory Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/Media.Cynthia YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured   PRODUCTION Music:  Jahzzar - https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/

I am very excited to share the first of a two-part conversation with author and TV/film historian, Lee Gambin. His double-volume work, "Tonight, On a Very Special Episode: When TV Sitcoms Sometimes Got Serious," provides a launch pad for our thoughtful and fast-paced discussion of the issues and activists behind TV's “very special episodes,” which date back 50 years or more.   These TV events—featuring familiar, beloved characters—mixed serious topics with comedy so effectively that, in many cases, activists were born, movements were started, legislation was passed, and minds were changed.   Legendary showrunners like Norman Lear and Linda Bloodworth-Thomason used the sitcom format to normalize awareness and discussion of race relations, women's issues, representation, discrimination, divorce, alcoholism and drug addiction, sexual assault, HIV/AIDS, and LGBTQ rights.   Fronting these issues shaped our culture in ways that should not be lost to history. Join us for a discussion of the iconic episodes and the legends who made them happen, as well as how they continue to impact us today.   CONNECT WITH LEE GAMBIN   Tonight, On A Very Special Episode: When TV Sitcoms Sometimes Got Serious Volume 1: 1957-1985   Tonight, On A Very Special Episode: When TV Sitcoms Sometimes Got Serious Volume 2: 1986-1998   Cinemaniacs   SOUND CLIPS   Diff'rent Strokes: The Bicycle Man (S5.E16-17)   Designing Women: Killing All the Right People (S2.E4)   All in The Family: Edith's 50th Birthday (S8.E4-5)   BOOKS / ARTICLES   Norman Lear Memoir - Even This I Get to Experience   PERTINENT EPISODES OF ADVANCED TV HERSTORY   Designing Women 1, Body-shaming 0   Sports Night: More Relevant Than Ever   Eating Disorder Movies: TV For and About Women   CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY   Website Podcasts Instagram  Twitter Facebook  YouTube   PRODUCTION   Jahzzar on Free Music Archive 

In 1989, Oprah Winfrey produced and starred in the two-part TV miniseries, The Women of Brewster Place, which was based on Gloria Naylor's award-winning debut novel. The book, and the movie, explore a variety of personal issues and social themes faced by seven African American women who live in an urban housing project.   When, just for fun, we asked the new artificial intelligence software, ChatGPT, to connect Oprah's cultural influence with themes from the book/movie, the AI chatbot got it… sort of right. Sort of. It dispassionately summarized many of the challenges faced by the women in the story. And it mentioned Oprah's commitment to highlighting personal and social issues. But ChatGPT failed to find the essential storyline.   And it's no wonder. The online content about The Women of Brewster Place neglects the underlying racism that's at work when urban planners and policymakers target the destruction of specific neighborhoods in the name of progress. As long as history is “written by the victors,” the online trough that feeds artificial intelligence will prevent AI, and the people who rely on it, from making the most crucial connections of all.   MENTIONS AND REFERENCES  We encourage you to visit your local bookseller or library.   Book by Gloria Naylor - The Women of Brewster Place Movie on YouTube - The Women of Brewster Place People Magazine Article - Oprah Goes Hollywood Book by Carol Stabile, PhD - The Broadcast 41 Podcast Series (first of four) - Calculated Efforts to Preserve Power: TV Women Blacklisted Vulture Article - 30 Years Ago, The Women of Brewster Place Cracked Open the Door for Queer TV Vice Article - I've Made More Than 1,700 Wikipedia Entries on Women Scientists and I'm Not Yet Done   CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS and ADVANCED TV HERSTORY   Website Podcasts Instagram  Twitter Facebook  YouTube  

On this episode of Advanced TV Herstory, we connect the dots between TV and feminism with American culture and politics by remembering the 1979 television miniseries, Backstairs at the White House. The series is based on the New York Times bestseller by Lillian Rogers Parks, a seamstress in the White House from 1939-1961. Parks based the book on her own experiences and on those of her mother, Maggie Rogers, who, as a maid in the White House from 1909-1939, was encouraged by Eleanor Roosevelt to keep a diary of her time serving the various first families.    MENTIONS AND REFERENCES  (We encourage you to visit your local bookseller or library.) Jackie Kennedy - Interview with Sander Vanocur, NBC - March 1961 - https://youtu.be/j3ZvIzL1JbI My Thirty Years Backstairs at the White House - by Lillian Rogers Parks in collaboration with Frances Spatz Leighton Backstairs at the White House - TV miniseries (Part 1 of 4)- https://youtu.be/BIlFp_-mdXk Michelle Obama - Speech at 2016 Democratic National Convention - https://youtu.be/4ZNWYqDU948 White House Historical Association - https://www.whitehousehistory.org CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS Instagram: @advancedtvherstory Twitter: @TVHerstory  Website: https://www.tvherstory.com/ Apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/advanced-tv-herstory/id1014759821 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TVHerstory/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured

As we wrap up our two-part In Memoriam for 2022 by honoring women with famous names and faces, we also pay tribute to those who were less visible yet made significant contributions to TV, movies, news, and science.   This celebration is the perfect time to reflect on the importance of acting as a champion for other women. Their success does not detract from our own—instead, it strengthens us all.   The wonderful women featured in this episode will continue to entertain and teach and inform us for decades thanks to syndication. They are why I podcast.   MENTIONS AND REFERENCES   (We encourage you to visit your local bookseller or library.)   Women Who Reported Watergate (July 2, 2017 podcast) https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/women-who-reported-watergate   Audition: A Memoir by Barbara Walters https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2847470-audition   Kirstie Alley - List of Works https://www.biblio.com/kirstie-alley/author/15520   Nichelle Nichols on Martin Luther King, Jr. https://youtu.be/zrzygziT11I   Beyond Uhura by Nichelle Nichols https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/672094.Beyond_Uhura   Sacheen Littlefeather was a Native American icon. Her sisters say she was an ethnic fraud https://www.sfchronicle.com/opinion/openforum/article/Sacheen-Littlefeather-oscar-Native-pretendian-17520648.php   Louise Fletcher Wins Best Actress: 48th Oscars (1976) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pGl5U7nNlkY   Dizzy & Jimmy by Liz Sheridan https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/dizzy--jimmy-my-life-with-james-dean--a-love-story_liz-sheridan/348349/   Reeling Back by Michael Walsh https://reelingback.com/articles/creative_women_needed   CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS   Instagram: @advancedtvherstory Twitter: @TVHerstory  Website: https://www.tvherstory.com/ Apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/advanced-tv-herstory/id1014759821 Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/TVHerstory/ YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured

Our In Memoriam episodes have become an annual tradition. As the universe of known, talented women in TV gets larger every year, so too does the number of women that we honor. In this first of two episodes, we highlight some of the women of music and theatre who made significant contributions to our culture and society. We lost some very big names in 2022, but as you've come to expect with these episodes, we also celebrate the talent and achievements of those who were not quite thought of as a “big name.”   REFERENCES AND MENTIONS In Memoriam: Angela Lansbury / MSW https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/in-memoriam-angela-lansbury-msw Pat Carroll: Gertrude Stein was never a bore https://www.csmonitor.com/1981/0108/010861.html Debbie Allen Shapes a Different World https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/debbie-allen-shapes-a-different-world Olivia Newton-John - the Making of “Physical” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LXitXrVsndg Olivia Newton-John on Murphy Brown https://youtu.be/YrwqwZ02gM0 Erica Gimpel on Twitter: @ericagimpel www.freemusicarchive.org   CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA BEMIS ABRAMS Instagram: @advancedtvherstory Twitter: @TVHerstory  Website: https://www.tvherstory.com/ Apple podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/advanced-tv-herstory/id1014759821 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TVHerstory/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured

Mallory Lewis joins host Cynthia Bemis Abrams for a fun chat about her book, Shari Lewis and Lambchop: The Team That Changed Children's Television. Mallory's book, published by University of Kentucky Press in fall 2022, is a collection of stories from Shari's childhood and career as a businesswoman and multifaceted entertainer. While Shari Lewis died from cancer in 1998, Lambchop continues to charm audiences with the help of her sister, Mallory. FULL VIDEO INTERVIEW YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7eYcoRGL70&t=263s GET THE BOOK Shari Lewis and Lambchop: The Team that Changed Children's Television by Nat Segaloff and Mallory Lewis UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY PRESS https://www.kentuckypress.com/9780813196268/shari-lewis-and-lamb-chop/ Watch for the documentary, Shari and Lambchop, to be released in 2023. CONNECT WITH MALLORY TikTok: @yourfavlambchop Website:  https://mallorylewisandlambchop.com/home Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/mallorylewisandlambchop CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA Instagram: @advancedtvherstory Twitter: @TVHerstory  Website: https://www.tvherstory.com/ Apple podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/advanced-tv-herstory/id1014759821 Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/TVHerstory/ YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@advancedtvherstory/featured

We celebrate the creative life and career of Angela Lansbury with Bridget Kies, Assistant Professor of Film Studies and Production at Oakland University in Michigan. From MGM contract player to Tony-winning Broadway star to her role as Jessica Fletcher on Murder, She Wrote, Lansbury's long and impressive career has touched generations of film, TV, and theatre goers. Professor Kies' work has been published in numerous academic journals and edited collections. She is co-host of the Cabot Cove Gazette podcast and in 2023 will publish a book about Angela Lansbury and Murder, She Wrote. Clip from S. 4, E. 20 Showdown in Saskatchewan.

Celebrating the podcast's 7th complete year, Cynthia revisits highlights of the past year, muses on the state of TV and streaming today, and preaches the wisdom of owning physical copies of your favorites.

Liza Minnelli is celebrating 50 years since Cabaret, her big break film.TV revealed of Liza's talents as well as her love of performing which was not always detected on film.  Cynthia spotlights Liza sharing the stage with Mikhail Baryshnikov, The Muppets, Goldie Hawn, Robert Plant, Guns & Roses, Shirley MacLaine and Diahann Carroll in a host of formats that showcased her dramatic, dancing and singing.  Resources include: Lorna Luft's Me and My Shadows https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/1061873.Me_and_My_Shadows The Judy Garland Show Christmas Special https://youtu.be/oOmjvgaT9-A The Muppet Show (Nov. 1979) Copacabana clip  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCGSZmTsX7o The Dangerous Christmas of Red Riding Hood, or Oh Wolf, Peter Wolf https://youtu.be/DixzC8Fur5g UK Daily Mail interview about the early days of HIV/AIDS https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2004484/Liz-Taylor-taught-live-life-Liza-Minnelli-pays-moving-tribute-friend.html

Cold War espionage with an 80s feminist touch - The Americans (FX, 2013-2018) gave us a new form of anti-hero in Elizabeth Jennings, played by Keri Russell. Cynthia and guest author Linda Mizejewski discuss the award-winning series' women, its commitment to accuracy and the bold approach of depicting spies as real people. Linda Mizejewski's book The Americans, published by Wayne State Press https://www.wsupress.wayne.edu/books/detail/americans Slate's podcast series on The Americans https://slate.com/tag/the-americans Advanced TV Herstory episode on Viewers for Quality TV https://advancedtvherstory.libsyn.com/tending-the-fandom    

Cynthia recounts the lives and careers of talented TV women who died in 2021. While some died unexpectedly of disease, the long list features names of women who worked well into their golden years. Join this celebration of their impact on TV and come away with renewed energy to cheer on the amazing women in your own circle, while they're still around. The list includes: Betty White, Cloris Leachman, Jessica Walter, Cicely Tyson, Markie Post and Mary Wilson of The Supremes.

This is the second of 2 episodes featuring a deep discussion with poet, author, and professor Shayla Lawson about 1983's Showtime worldwide stream of Diana Ross' concert in a summer deluge. Lawson delivers a candid description of the herstoric concert's impact and what Diana Ross and her authenticity mean to women of color in Lawson's 2020 book, This is Major: Notes on Diana Ross, Dark Girls, and Being Dope .

This is the first of 2 episodes featuring a deep discussion with poet, author, and professor Shayla Lawson about 1983's Showtime worldwide stream of Diana Ross' concert in a summer deluge. Lawson delivers a candid description of the herstoric concert's impact and what Diana Ross and her authenticity mean to women of color in her 2020 book, This Is Major: Notes on Diana Ross, Dark Girls, and Being Dope.

Cynthia delves into deep Hollywood history to help listeners understand and love Carrie Fisher's genius effort of the made for TV movie (2001) These Old Broads. All in their late 60s, Debbie Reynolds, Shirley MacLaine, Joan Collins and Elizabeth Taylor look like they had a ball in this send-up of aging and the scandals of Hollywood's golden years.

Cynthia pays tribute to the TV women in front of and behind the camera who passed away in 2020, including such big names as film & TV legend 104 year old Olivia deHavilland, actor/singer Ja'Net DuBois of Good Times, daytime's Marj Dusay, Glee's Naya Rivera and the woman who brought us The Magic School Bus, Joanna Cole. Cynthia lists well known older women successfully leveraging social media and weighs in on #JanetJacksonAppreciationDay and the entertainment industry's treatment of Britney Spears. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2020_deaths_in_American_television

Cynthia chats role models and memorable characters found in the 4-Female sitcom construct, with Summer Martin of The Unconventional Woman Podcast. Guest Wendy Burns-Ardolino contributes insights into what qualities and traits viewers look for in their role models and how 4 women characters offer fluidity to leading conversations. Excerpts from Mara Brock-Akil, showrunner of Girlfriends and the Irish cast of Derry Girls with showrunner Lisa McGee (YouTube) https://youtu.be/5y7jcmkotw4 (M Brock Akil) Derry Girls https://youtu.be/bbjpEnH_Zb0 Wendy Burns-Ardolino's book TV Female Foursome and Their Fans  https://mcfarlandbooks.com/product/tv-female-foursomes-and-their-fans/  

In the 3rd of 4 episodes about role models and memorable characters, Cynthia and Summer delve deep into some of the most crafted, defined, distinct women characters to ever grace the dramatic small screen. They follow it up with a list of similarly refined, authentic real women – whose growth and stature have unfolded over the decades. Dr. Camille Saroyan (Bones) Chris Cagney and MaryBeth Lacey (Cagney & Lacey) AnnaLiese Keating (How to Get Away With Murder) Olivia Pope (Scandal) Robin Roberts (Good Morning America) Joy Reid (The Reid Out) Gayle King Oprah Shonda Rhimes Martha Stewart __ Clip: Season 2 opener of Martha and Snoop’s Dinner Party Music: Jahzzar's Take Me Higher (www.freemusicarchive.org) Summer Martin of The Unconventional Woman podcast www.tuwpodcast.com Editing and sound design by Catherine Yang

Deep chat with Summer Martin of The Unconventional Woman Podcast about role models & memorable characters and what they meant for us, our aunties, mothers and friendships. We discuss the powerful impressions of Freddie Brooks of A Different World, The Flying Nun's Sister Bertille and Homeland's Carrie Mathison. Temple University student Maryam Muhammad adds her perspective on Cree Summer's Freddie Brooks. - - - - - Maryam Muhammad, student at Temple University and blogger at Medium, a place where writers, influencers and podcasters get the word out. Find her work at www.maryamazeeza.com – Instagram: @NeptunesNegress and Twitter: @OilyEyelids. Summer Martin, co-host and podcaster Twitter @summerygory, Instagram: unconventional _woman podcast https://www.tuwpodcast.com/ Claire Danes on Carrie Mathison - Showtime's Homeland YouTube Channel - S. 8 trailer Freddie Brooks on A Different World S.6, E.1 Jennifer Keishin Armstrong, author of Mary and Lou and Rhoda and Ted. Advanced TV Herstory Episodes Women of MTM (1970-77) Pt 1 Women of MTM Pt 2 (Words, Casting, Fashion) Women Writers of MTM Pt 3 (Treva Silverman)

Deep chat with Summer Martin of The Unconventional Woman Podcast about role models & memorable characters and what they meant for us, our aunties, mothers and friendships. We discuss the impact of Freddie Brooks of A Different World, Mary Richards of The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Cosby Show's Clair Huxtable and others on us and generations older and younger. Temple University student Maryam Muhammad adds her perspective on Cree Summer's Freddie Brooks. - - - - - Maryam Muhammad, student at Temple University and blogger at Medium, a place where writers, influencers and podcasters get the word out. Find her work at www.maryamazeeza.com – Instagram: @NeptunesNegress and Twitter: @OilyEyelids. Summer Martin, co-host and podcaster Twitter @summerygory, Instagram: unconventional _woman podcast https://www.tuwpodcast.com/   Chris Spags' YouTube Channel - Tami Taylor The Cosby Show YouTube Channel - Night of the Wretched clip - - - - - Past relevant episodes of this podcast: Jennifer Keishin Armstrong  author of Mary and Lou and Rhoda and Ted: Women of MTM (1970-77) Women of MTM: Words, casting & fashion Women Writers of MTM Dr. Robin Means Coleman on Debbie Allen’s transformation of A Different World Cagney & Lacey 6 Lost Episodes of Cagney & Lacey Concept to Pilot: Cagney & Lacey    

When she starred in All-American Girl in 1994-5, Margaret Cho became a TV Herstory groundbreaker. All-American Girl was the first network sitcom to feature an all Asian-American cast. Cho discusses lessons from the series in depth with Ashley Pacini of The Reel Women and Cynthia. This interview caps a summer series collaboration of Advanced TV Herstory and The Reel Women, a community that celebrates the successes of women in filmed entertainment. Other topics: How a white person can become better ally. The PoC talent pipeline. A stand-up comedian's schedule in lockdown. The Margaret Cho (her podcast on Earios & a few of her guests). Her 2002 book I'm the One I Want Resources: Margaret's website The Reel Women Jahzzar's Take Me Higher at Free Music Archive Introductory shout out to Chicago's Arcus Behavioral Health & Wellness

Sometimes we don't recognize or celebrate persistence while it's going on. This interview with Pepper Reed, part of the collaboration with The Reel Women, a community of women with careers in TV and film, is a testament to persistence. In this episode led by Ashley Pacini, Pepper explains how writing and script supervising influence directing and why she chose the formal training that has prepared her to wear so many hats. Ashley & Pepper discuss the positions for which living in Los Angeles or New York are essential, the power of networking and the importance of setting professional goals.