William S. Paley: Broadcasting Pioneer and Founder of CBS
William S. Paley was a broadcasting pioneer and one of the founders of the legendary American television network, CBS Corporation. He is known for his role in revolutionizing the television industry, which led to the development of the educational and entertaining programming of today. Along with the legendary Edward R. Murrow, Paley is credited for popularizing the industry and for his pioneering efforts in establishing CBS’s dominance in radio and television programming. Here is an overview of William S. Paley’s life and accomplishments:
Early Life and Education
William S. Paley was born on September 28, 1901, in Chicago to entrepreneurial parents. His mother was a respected Russian immigrant and his father was a successful Romanian-born retail businessman. As a young man, Paley was a bright, driven student and attended the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
Establishing CBS Radio
In 1928, Paley saw the potential of radio and decided to invest in his dream by acquiring the failed United Independent Broadcasters (UIB) network and transforming it into CBS radio. Paley believed that radio was a powerful vehicle for selling advertising, which he used to bring in revenue for his network. His slogan, ‘Good Enough Never Is,’ was among his highest priorities, and CBS quickly became one of the most successful radio networks during the Great Depression.
Revolutionizing the Television Industry
In 1941, Paley moved into the television industry and assembled CBS’s television group. Unfortunately, World War II forced Paley to take a hiatus from broadcasting, but in 1948 he returned to CBS and quickly transformed it into a leader in the television industry. Paley was an early advocate of educational and entertaining programming that could simultaneously earn sponsorships and please audiences.
Accomplishments
Throughout the 1950s, Paley was at the center of CBS’s success with programming that was ahead of its time. He made wise investments in television’s future and continued to expand the company’s offerings with soap operas, game shows, and comedy shows, as well as cutting-edge news programs such as the Late Show, which Paley hosted. He was a major innovator and innovated scripted television specials such as the celebrated “The CBS Hall of Fame.”
Legacy
William S. Paley died in 1990, at the age of 89. He was one of the most influential figures in the broadcasting history of America and is remembered for revolutionizing the industry. Paley influenced the television industry for the better and made lasting contributions to the world of radio and TV.
List of Accomplishments of William S. Paley
• Established CBS Radio in 1928
• Pioneered in the creation of educational and entertaining programming
• Developed scripted television specials such as ‘The CBS Hall of Fame’
• Established the Late Show, in 1950
• Booked the then-famous I Love Lucy show
• Reorganized CBS Broadcasting and launched corporate television, in the 1960s
• Developed the news magazine program, 60 Minutes
• Produced and released the movie The Exorcist
William S. Paley was a visionary in the radio and television industry who devoted his life to revamping the industry. His accomplishments revolutionized the entertainment and educational content of today and continue to shape the programming of television and radio entertainment around the world. His success laid the base for the CBS Corporation, which even today remains a leader in programming, news, and entertainment.
