The Dick Cavett Show
The Dick Cavett Show is the title of several television talk shows hosted by Dick Cavett. Known for its in-depth interview style and intellectual rigor, the show is a significant part of American television history, spanning across multiple decades and networks. It originally aired on ABC, but later iterations appeared on other networks, including CBS, PBS, USA Network, and CNBC.
Show Formats and Networks
The Dick Cavett Show was first produced for ABC with various versions running in different time slots and formats:
- ABC Daytime: Aired from March 4, 1968, and catered to a more casual daytime audience.
- ABC Late Night: This prime-time version aired starting in 1969 and was known for its more serious and intellectual discussions.
- CBS Prime Time: A brief stint in 1975, which had more characteristics of a variety show.
- PBS: From 1977 to 1982, the show aired on PBS bringing more educational and cultural content.
- USA Network: The show returned in a prime-time slot on this cable network from 1985 to 1986.
- ABC Late Night: The show had another late-night run in 1986.
Throughout its iterations, Cavett was known for his insightful interviews with a wide array of guests, ranging from entertainers to politicians, including musical icons like Jimi Hendrix and influential figures such as John Lennon, who performed and discussed his controversial song "Woman Is the Nigger of the World" during one of the show's episodes.
Production and Style
The show was distinct for its interview style that allowed guests to engage in deep and meaningful conversations. The original ABC late-night show was produced by Tony Converse and later by John Gilroy. Dave Lloyd was a key writer for the show. Unlike many other talk shows of its time, Cavett’s program encouraged longer conversations, often delving into philosophical or intellectual territory rather than focusing solely on entertainment.
Cultural Impact
The Dick Cavett Show was a platform for many significant cultural moments. It provided a venue for discussions that were both reflective and critical of the times. The show was developed during a period of social upheaval and change in the United States and did not shy away from controversial topics, allowing figures like Anthony Perkins and Diahann Carroll to express themselves candidly.
Cavett's approach differed markedly from contemporaries, with shows like The Joey Bishop Show and more entertainment-focused programs. His style can be seen as a precursor to more modern talk shows that blend entertainment and in-depth interviews, influencing hosts like Jimmy Kimmel.
Legacy
The legacy of The Dick Cavett Show endures, not just as a talk show but as a significant cultural artifact that captured the intellectual and social climate of its times. It serves as a historical record of public figures and their views, offering insights into the cultural dynamics of the late 20th century.