Ernie Kovacs collection

Collection

Identifier: 2193

Staff Only
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Scope and Content

This collection primarily contains scripts, rundowns, and notes from the career of Ernie Kovacs, circa 1951-1961. The collection also contains small amounts of other production material including treatments, prop lists, guest lists, cue sheets, lyric sheets, and other related items.

Dates

Creation: 1951 - 1961

Creator

Kovacs, Ernie (Person)

Conditions Governing Access

COLLECTION STORED OFF-SITE. Advance notice required for access.

Conditions Governing Use

All requests for permission to publish or quote from manuscripts must be submitted in writing to the Cinematic Arts Librarian. Permission for publication is given on behalf of the Cinematic Arts Library as the owner of the physical items and is not intended to include or imply permission of the copyright holder, which must also be obtained.

Biographical note

Born in Trenton, New Jersey in 1919, Ernie Kovacs began his career working in radio, then later went on to become one of television's early pioneers in the 1950's. Known for his spontaneity, Kovacs is considered to be one of the first innovators of television sketch comedy, and his use of visual illusions, special effects, and sight gags were unlike anything seen before on television. In May of 1962, Kovacs won an Emmy for his series of half-hour television specials for ABC. The award was given posthumously, as Kovacs was killed in an automobile crash on January 13 of that year.

Extent

4 Linear Feet (4 boxes)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

Arrangement

The Ernie Kovacs collection is organized into two series. The first series is entitled "Show Scripts", and the material is arranged chronologically. The second series is entitled "Bit Scripts" and begins with Box 3: Folder 38. The material is arranged alphabetically by Title starting with Box 4: Folder 7. The material from Box 3: Folder 38 to Box 4: Folder 6 is not arranged alphabetically, but is dated from 1954-1956.