Classic Television: 1950s
First episode - Crusader Rabbit was broadcast from 1950 to 1952, divided into 10 "crusades", and then syndicated for many years. It featured Crusader Rabbit, his companion Ragland T. Tiger ("Rags"), and their occasional nemeses – Dudley Nightshade and Whetstone Whiplash with his sidekick, Bilious Green.
The legendary James Dean plays the lead in this Schlitz Playhouse production of The Unlighted Road, which aired on CBS on May 6, 1955.
Ralph Kramden's musical expertise gives him a chance to win $99,000 on a game show. Originally broadcast January 28, 1956 on CBS, starring Jackie Gleason, Art Carney, Audrey Meadows, and Joyce Randolph
Ford Television Theatre presents Barbara Stanwyck as the wife of a sheriff who is facing the wrath of a rancher bent on avenging the trial and hanging of his son. Originally broadcast on ABC October 10, 1956, the cast of this Western also includes Jeff Morrow, Jim Haywayd, and Trevor Bardette.
Jackie Gleason's first variety show aired on the DuMont Network starting in 1949. This episode, which aired October 26, 1951, featured Art Carney and guests Georgia Gibbs, Arthur Lee Simpkins, and columnist Earl Wilson.
First television appearance by Marilyn Monroe, broadcast live on CBS Sep 13, 1953.
Compilation of some of the funniest moments of Groucho Marx on his well-loved quiz show that began on radio in 1947 and made its TV debut on NBC in 1950.
On this show hosted by Ralph Baker viewers would send postcards describing things they wanted to see on TV, and their requests would be granted. This episode aired live on the DuMont Network on March 1, 1951.
A spoof of the movie, "A Streetcar Named Desire", which aired on the April 5, 1952 episode on NBC. This skit features the star of the show, along with Imogene Coca and Betty Furness.
Sketch comedy hosted by influential comedian Ernie Kovacs, whose show was the one of the few programs to appear on all four major networks over the years. This episode was broadcast on NBC July 2, 1956, and also stars Edie Adams.