Noted TV Producer Bob Banner Dies at 89

We've just learned that legendary TV producer Bob Banner has passed away at 89.

Banner was one of the pioneers in  the new medium of television, beginning his career at WBKB, and later WMAQ in Chicago -- part of the historic "Chicago School" -- where he worked on Kukla, Fran and Ollie and produced Garroway at Large. He later moved to the The Fred Waring Show in New York and then produced The Dinah Shore Chevy Show among others.  He also executive produced a number of memorable TV movies (including My Sweet Charlie) and many variety series including The Carol Burnett Show, Solid Gold, Star Search and It’s Showtime at the Apollo. The Archive of American Television interviewed him in 1999.

"Bob was a true television legend," says John Shaffner, Chairman of the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. "Over a long and elegant career he produced much memorable programming.  He mentored so many of us, educating and encouraging young people to enter the television profession, including myself so many years ago. The television community has lost one its founders, and it is a deep personal loss for many of us. We will remember him with fondness and gratitude."

Bob Banner interview excerpt on how he would like to be remembered:

Watch his full Archive of American Television interview here.