PBS began branching out its programming during the 70's. Daytime was reserved mostly for the kiddo's with Sesame Street, Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, and the original Electric Company leading the pack. At night was more diverse programming for adults and/or families, such as Masterpiece Theatre (now known simply as Masterpiece), Nova, Austin City Limits, and Mystery!. The only demographic seemly unserved happened to be seniors. PBS, in 1977, decided to do something about it.
Over Easy was a talk/magazine show for seniors that could be slotted either in afternoons before the kiddo's came home, or in early evening, where the family could watch the show together. Hugh Downs (20/20, ex-Concentration, Today, The Tonight Show) served as host. The series lasted six years (1977-83), airing locally in the afternoon, as memory serves, ahead of the aforementioned Sesame Street (which aired twice daily back then).
We've previously shown an musical excerpt with actor-singer Ed Ames (ex-Daniel Boone). Here is a 1981 episode with guest Maureen O'Sullivan.
Posted in memory of Downs, 99, who passed away on Wednesday. No rating out of respect.
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