ABC’s First Series

‘Hollywood Screen Test’ was the first network series broadcast on ABC-TV, and started on day one along with the brand new network.

Debuting on 15 April 1948, and hosted first by Bert Lytell and then Neil Hamilton, who is shown above, ‘Hollywood Screen Test’ sought to give exposure to many up-and-coming actors who were looking for their big break. The relatively unknown actors would be picked to guest star on the show, then they would have half-hour scenes of dialogue with established stage and screen actors.

Among the stars discovered on Hollywood Screen Test are, Grace Kelly, Jack Klugman, Pernell Roberts, and Jack Lemmon. FYI, WABC started life as WJZ TV. Thanks to Bryan Durr for the helping hand.

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