| May 12 |
| 1914 -- veteran newsman and WWII 'Murrow Boy' Howard K. Smith is born in Ferriday, Louisiana. The future ABC Evening News anchor is also notable for moderating the first Nixon/Kennedy debate. He died in February 18, 2002, at the age of 87. In 1960, Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley appeared on one of Frank's Timex tv specials. Elvis sang "Witchcraft" and Frank sang "Love Me Tender." For a tremendous recap of this special, visit http://www.classictvinfo.com/Sinatra/SinatraTimexShow.ht m 1978 -- On 'Wonder Woman,' a slightly diabolical genius kidnaps athletes to represent his imaginary country in the Olympics. The genius was portrayed by Henry Gibson. In 1982, the final episode of 'The Incredible Hulk.' Scientist David Banner was angry, but not that angry . . . 1987 -- trend-setting police drama 'Hill Street Blues' aired for the final time on NBC. Its quick cuts and hand-held cameras set the stage for future dramas, and its multiple character and story arcs opened the police procedural for future hits. Its theme song by Mike Post is still fondly remembered. 1992 -- Robert Reed, who won an Emmy for 'The Defenders' and later warmed hearts as architect Mike Brady on 'The Brady Bunch,' died at the age of 59. The nation was shocked to learn that his death was due to complications from AIDs. In 1993, the last broadcast of "Cheers" was telecast on NBC. The same night, CBS aired the finale of "Knots Landing." 2001 -- early superstar Perry Como, formerly a Pennsylvania barber, died. He was 88. In 2001, the singing barber, Perry Como, a first-line star of radio, TV & recording, died at age 88. |