Series cast summary: | |||
Andrew Rooney | ... |
Himself - Commentator (segment "Andy Rooney")
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(564 episodes, 1986-2011)
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Lesley Stahl | ... |
Herself - Host
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(514 episodes, 1994-2016)
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Steve Kroft | ... |
Himself - Host
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(487 episodes, 1991-2016)
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Morley Safer | ... |
Himself - Host
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(389 episodes, 1973-2016)
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Scott Pelley | ... |
Himself - Host
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(357 episodes, 2003-2016)
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Ed Bradley | ... |
Himself - Host
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(274 episodes, 1984-2016)
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Bob Simon | ... |
Himself - Host
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(260 episodes, 1999-2015)
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Mike Wallace | ... |
Himself - Host
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(255 episodes, 1968-2016)
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This series set the pattern for the TV news magazine. Each episode consists of several stories, each presented by a different reporter. Stories have included investigative pieces, celebrity profiles, background pieces on current events, and general human interest stories. The series has also featured "Point-Counterpoint" debates and humorous commentaries by Andy Rooney. Written by Eric Sorensen
With the explosion of news magazine shows on the prime-time airwaves, it is useful to remember the long-running program that producers are trying to emulate: 60 Minutes.
This show combines investigative journalism, celebrity profiles, and features about interesting organizations and events. When it's a serious subject, you feel like they have fairly and objectively reported the story. Even with lighter topics you get the impression 60 Minutes has captured the essence of the story.
Each segment is about 15 minutes long; we get three in every one-hour show. When the subject is something serious, the viewer has the option of following up in detail on other sources.
Sure, it's a formula, but the 60 Minutes people perfected the formula. No one else on commercial television does such good journalism.
Why has this show consistently placed near the top of the ratings for three decades? Because it's damn good. Why do people tune into 60 Minutes every week, despite the fact that during football season it is often delayed due to long-running games? Because they know that 60 Minutes will deliver.
Jack and Shana's debates in the 70s were a little much to take, and I can't stand Andy Rooney's musings, but the core of the show has remained solid.