Ruth Lyons: First Lady of Television

Synopsis

Even though her program was only seen in four Midwestern cities, Ruth Lyons presided over America's highest-rated daytime TV talk show for nearly two decades! This documentary draws upon rare and previously undiscovered footage, along with comments from associates and admirers to create a portrait of an outspoken, multi-talented woman who became one of the most beloved and influential figures in TV history. Featuring the Recollections Of: Carol Channing, John Davidson, Phyllis Diller, Phil Donahue, David Letterman, Johnny Mathis, Peter Nero, Bonnie Lou, Nick Clooney, Oscar Robertson and many others, along with archival audio and video of Ruth Lyons' 50-50 Club.

Cast

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Ruth Lyons

Self (archive footage)

David Letterman

Self

Nick Clooney

Self

Carol Channing

Self

John Davidson

Self

Phyllis Diller

Self

Phil Donahue

Self

Johnny Mathis

Self

—

Peter Nero

Self

—

Bonnie Lou

Self

Oscar Robertson

Self

—

Nancy James

Narrator

Crew

Camera

• Ric Hines Director of Photography

Directing

• David Ashbrock Director

Writing

• Mark Magistrelli Writer