BOSTON – In a time before streaming platforms and cable networks dominated the entertainment landscape, Boston was home to a unique television experience characterized by local programming and beloved personalities.
The era of UHF and VHF television brought with it a simpler yet highly entertaining time, filled with familiar faces that turned local hosts into community celebrities.
One standout figure from this golden age was Dana Hersey, known for his work on WSBK-TV 38.
His show, “The Movie Loft,” became a landmark in the genre of hosted movie programs, captivating audiences with both unedited films and Hersey’s commanding voice.
Comments from nostalgic viewers, like MervinGriff on YouTube, reflect the fond memories of that time: “AH! DANA HERSEY, I watched him host tons of The Movie Loft on TV 38 in the 1980s.”
Other notable hosts included Tom Bergeron, who gained fame with “People Are Talking,” and the team from “Evening Magazine,” both of which contributed to the vibrant local television landscape.
In addition to individual contributions, Boston produced influential shows that left a lasting mark on the television industry.
“Good Day!” aired originally as “Good Morning” in 1973 until 1991 and is recognized as a precursor to ABC’s ”Good Morning America.”
One of the distinguished hosts of the mid-morning talk show was Janet Langhart, who brought charisma and insight to the program.
Frank Avruch, another cherished figure, gained recognition as the host of “The Great Entertainment,” an anthology series that showcased classic films, further enriching the local television scene.
Boston’s local productions were not just popular in the region; they often set the stage for national trends.
One notable sitcom, “Park Street Under,” was set in a fictional underground bar in Boston, predating other popular shows like “Cheers.”
The show, which aired in front of a live audience in Needham, featured local talents such as Steve Sweeney and Karen MacDonald.
Notably, the Boston Globe referred to the series as “the freshest, funniest sitcom in town,” praising its emphasis on local actors and unique storytelling.
Despite attempts to move to a national platform, the tape of “Park Street Under” sent to ABC did not receive a reply, although it was believed it caught the eye of Paramount, which was involved in the production of “Cheers.”
The series “The Baxters” also contributed to the local television scene, airing from 1977 to 1979 with a format that included audience interaction and discussions following performances.
In the realm of legal programming, “Miller’s Court” made history by being the first American television show dedicated to the exploration of legal matters.
Hosted by Harvard Law Professor Arthur R. Miller, the program ran from 1979 to 1988 on WCVB.
Miller’s impact was acknowledged with tributes from NYU, including a “South Park”-style spoof and a hip-hop homage based on Lil’ Wayne’s work.
Adding to Boston’s reputation for quality programming, “The Scarlet Letter” miniseries aired briefly in 1979, showcasing the region’s talent with outdoor scenery shot at Rhode Island’s Sachuest Point.
Despite the current prevalence of streaming services, the legacy of Boston’s local television programming remains significant, celebrating an era that produced not only quality entertainment but also a sense of community and local pride.
These cherished memories continue to resonate with those who grew up in Massachusetts, reminding us of the vibrant television culture that once flourished before the age of digital media.
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