Nichols and May on the Quiz Show Scandal

This excerpt is from The Fabulous Fifties, a true "spectacular" from CBS in 1960. Hosted by Peter Fonda, it featured a variety of established stars, films by Ray and Charles Eames, and sequences with new up and coming comedians Mike Nichols and Elaine May. In this one, which is the sort of improvised dialogue they were becoming famous for, the two discuss the TV quiz show scandal.



Moral issues, still beat real issues.

Tough, But Fair: A Message to My TV Criticism Students

Here's a conversation you might want to have with yourself:

Did I remember to italicize the title of the TV show I wrote about in my column?

If yes: Of course, that's what I was told before and it is an easy rule to follow (or look up if I am unsure). I'm going to get on with my weekend!

If not: Why is it I cannot remember to do this?

What impact will this have on my grade?

What does this potentially signal about my future, that I can't take care of this small thing, the neglect of which seriously undermines my writing?

What can I do to remember to italicize the titles of TV shows next time?

I don't know. But I hope I can remember.

Something to think about.

Have a good weekend!