People

During the formative years of television, as it was gaining a foothold in our national consciousness, certain pioneers helped mold the medium. These stars of the small screen-whether in front of the camera, behind it or both-challenged our notions of entertainment and made us question our values and our world view.

Carol Burnett
Her genial comic antics have entertained America for years.
LeVar Burton
Long before "Reading Rainbow," he starred as Kunta Kinte in "Roots."
Johnny Carson
He reigned on the late night TV screen for three decades.
Lynda Carter
Equipped with her lasso of truth, she was the perfect "Wonder Woman."
Dick Cavett
He carved out an intellectual niche on late night TV.
Richard Chamberlain
The "King of the Miniseries" starred in "The Thorn Birds" and "Shogun."
Joan Collins
Her portrayal of Alexis Carrington made "Dynasty" a sensation.
Bill Cosby
He sparred with racial stereotypes and left his comedic mark.
Angie Dickinson
Strong, smart and sexy, she proved powerful on the small screen.
Phyllis Diller
Her zany humor cracked the glass ceiling for future funny women.
Lou Ferrigno
He was the bodybuilder actor behind "The Incredible Hulk."
James Garner
He played the reluctant hero with charm and humor.
Rosey Grier
He lived by his principles of non-violence, on and off screen.
Merv Griffin
He crafted engaging game shows that kept us glued to the screen.
Andy Griffith
He won hearts with his down-home grin and self-effacing humor.
Larry Hagman
He was one of television's best-loved primetime villains.
Nichelle Nichols
She was the first African-American female in a lead role on TV.
Leonard Nimoy
He transfixed us as the logical Mr. Spock, proving humans and aliens aren't so different.
Joan Rivers
This comdienne and talk show host threw out the “nice girl” rules.
Fred Rogers
Wearing his trademark cardigan, he challenged kids to think creatively.
Willard Scott
He clowned his way to a network-level gig, but he's still a kid at heart.
Tommy Smothers
He was a sharp-tongued political satirist with change on his mind.
Betty White
She built a long career on quick wit and sheer talent.
Jonathan Winters
His wild comic sensibilities made him a perennial favorite.