Television variety shows, recurring performers and segments; distinct from interview-led Talk Shows.
Test your knowledge with these top questions!
Which future film star was a regular comic performer on The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour?
Teri Garr performed sketches on the show before film roles in Young Frankenstein and Tootsie.
Which band made its live American television debut on The Ed Sullivan Show on February 9, 1964?
An estimated 73 million viewers watched the broadcast, then a record for American television.
Which host introduced musical acts on The Ed Sullivan Show with the phrase "a really big show"?
Sullivan flattened the line into "shew," and impersonators still copy his stiff delivery.
Which comedy duo hosted the sketch show Laugh-In?
Rowan and Martin had already worked for years as a nightclub comedy team before fronting the show.
Which line ended jokes about runaway lovers on the variety show Hee Haw?
Archie Campbell sang a comic verse, then he and Gordie Tapp blew raspberries on the shared chorus refrain.
Which Italian mouse puppet appeared regularly alongside Ed Sullivan on The Ed Sullivan Show?
Topo Gigio appeared dozens of times and became one of the most requested acts on the show.
Which country stars hosted the variety show Hee Haw?
Owens and Clark stayed co-hosts from the 1969 CBS debut through long syndication, linking songs with cornfield sketches.
Which designer created Cher's beaded gowns for The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour?
Bob Mackie's sequined showgirl looks often drew attention from CBS censors, who asked for added linings.
Which future film star played the giggly bikini-clad dancer on Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In?
Hawn joined Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In in 1968, and her laughing persona soon led to film roles.
Which comedian wore a hat with a hanging price tag on Hee Haw?
Pearl left the $1.98 tag on her straw hat as part of a country-girl character first developed for the Grand Ole Opry.