Television is a medium because anything well done is rare

Television is a medium because anything well done is rare

Fred Allen was a comedic genius who understood the power and limitations of television as a medium. His famous quote, "Television is a medium because anything well done is rare," perfectly encapsulates his views on the medium and his own experiences working in it.

Allen was a pioneer in the world of radio and television, known for his quick wit, sharp humor, and ability to improvise on the spot. He was one of the first comedians to transition from radio to television, and he quickly became a household name with his own variety show, "The Fred Allen Show."

Despite his success on television, Allen was always critical of the medium and the quality of programming it produced. He believed that television was a "medium" in the sense that it was a means of communication, but he also felt that it was a limited medium because it often failed to live up to its potential.

Allen's quote about television being rare when done well speaks to his frustration with the lack of quality programming on the airwaves. He believed that too often, television shows relied on cheap gimmicks, tired cliches, and lowest common denominator humor to attract viewers. In his eyes, truly well-done television was a rare and precious thing.

Allen's own show was a testament to his belief in the power of good writing, clever jokes, and engaging storytelling. He surrounded himself with a talented team of writers and performers who helped him create a show that was both entertaining and thought-provoking. Allen's ability to push the boundaries of television comedy and challenge the status quo set him apart from his contemporaries.