David Susskind Televised Life: A Pioneer in Broadcasting

David Susskind was a trailblazer in the world of television and broadcasting. His groundbreaking work and unique approach to programming reshaped the industry and left a lasting impact on the medium. In this article, we will explore the life and achievements of David Susskind, highlighting his contributions and the legacy he left behind.

Early Life and Education

David Howard Susskind was born on December 19, 1920, in Manhattan, New York. Growing up in a Jewish family, he developed a passion for storytelling and entertainment from an early age. Susskind attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he studied journalism and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1942.

The Rise to Television Stardom

After completing his education, Susskind began working as a publicist for Warner Bros. in New York City. However, it was in the world of television where he truly found his calling. Susskind started producing and hosting his own shows, with a focus on thought-provoking discussions and interviews.

David Susskind: A Televised Life

by Stephen Battaglio (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	773 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	400 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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One of his most notable programs was "Open End," which aired from 1958 to 1967. This show featured extended interviews with various guests, including politicians, celebrities, and intellectuals. Susskind's unique interviewing style captivated viewers, as he fearlessly explored controversial topics and delved into the minds of his subjects.

Throughout his career, Susskind produced numerous other shows, including "The David Susskind Show" and "N.E.T. Festival." He also formed his own production company, Talent Associates, which became one of the leading production companies in the industry.

Susskind's commitment to diversity and inclusion was evident in his programming choices. He provided a platform for individuals from marginalized communities to share their stories and perspectives, shining a light on issues that were often overlooked by mainstream media.

Legacy and Impact

David Susskind's influence on television and broadcasting cannot be overstated. His innovative approach to programming and his commitment to exploring thought-provoking topics paved the way for future talk show hosts and journalists.

He successfully blended the entertainment and journalism worlds, creating a unique format that captivated audiences and challenged societal norms. Susskind's dedication to intelligent discourse and his ability to elicit candid responses from his guests set the bar high for televised interviews.

Furthermore, Susskind's shows contributed to shaping public opinion on critical issues. His interviews with prominent figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and John F. Kennedy provided viewers with a deeper understanding of the civil rights movement and the political climate of the time.

Aside from his contributions to television, David Susskind was also involved in various philanthropic endeavors. He served on the boards of multiple nonprofit organizations, working to support causes such as education and the arts.

The Enduring Influence of David Susskind

Even though David Susskind passed away on February 22, 1987, his impact on the broadcasting industry continues to be felt to this day. Many talk show hosts and journalists credit him as a major influence in their careers. His commitment to authenticity, intelligent discourse, and equal representation set a precedent for future generations of broadcasters.

Susskind's shows have also left a lasting cultural impact. Not only did they provide a platform for important conversations, but they also shaped public perceptions and challenged conventional wisdom. His dedication to pushing boundaries and addressing controversial topics has paved the way for modern talk shows to explore a wider range of subjects.

In

David Susskind's televised life was filled with innovation and a commitment to delivering high-quality programming. His influence on the world of television and broadcasting can still be seen today. From his captivating interviews to his dedication to showcasing diverse voices, Susskind forever changed the landscape of television and left an indelible legacy.

David Susskind: A Televised Life

by Stephen Battaglio (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	773 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	400 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

A rich biography of one of the most important cultural figures of the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s—maverick television producer and talk show host David Susskind

A flamboyant impresario who began his career as an agent, David Susskind helped define a fledgling television industry. He was a provocateur who fought to bring high-toned literary works to TV. His series East Side/West Side and N.Y.P.D. broke the color barrier in casting and brought gritty, urban realism to prime time. He indulged his passion for issues and ideas with his long running discussion program, first called Open End and then The David Susskind Show, where guests could come from The White House one week and a whore house the next. The groundbreaking program made news year in and year out. His legendary live interview with Nikita Khrushchev at the height of the Cold War inflamed both the political and media establishments.

Susskind was an enfant terrible whose life—both on and off the screen—makes fascinating reading. His rough edges, appetite for women, and scorn for the business side of his profession often left his own career hanging by a thread.

Through extensive original reporting and deep access to David Susskind's personal papers, family members and former associates, Stephen Battaglio creates a vivid portrait of a go-go era in American media. David Susskind is as much a biography of an expansive and glamorous time in the television business as it is the life of one of its most colorful and important players.