iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 04/10/2026

#OTD Happy 110th Birthday to Jan Murray (born Murray Janofsky, 1916- 2006). Ubiquitous comedian, actor, and television presenter. His Wikipedia entry should prioritize “game show panelist”, or at least HOLLYWOOD SQUARES stalwart (IMDB tallies nearly 400 appearances across all versions of the show).

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 28/09/2026

Remembering the brilliant individual careers and 52-year union of Jessica Tandy (1909-1994) and Hume Cronyn (1911-2003), wed #OTD in 1942. Both esteemed stars of stage, film, radio, & tv: she won 4 Tonys, BAFTA, Golden Globe, Emmy, & Oscar; he won 2 Tonys, 2 Emmys, & noms for Golden Globe & Oscar.

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 21/09/2026

Cowboys singing Beautiful Dreamer in Northern Michigan? Yes, #OTD in 1953, Gene Autry’s penultimate film premiered: SAGINAW TRAIL. He continued on radio/tv for 3 more years, then “retired” to his business interests/personal appearances. His films first exposed Western music to a nationwide audience.

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

Celebrating the warm & wonderful actress Dorothy McGuire (1916-2001), lost #OTD at age 85. She started on stage & radio in the 30s & retired in 1990 with just 28 film roles, including THE SPIRAL STAIRCASE (1946), THREE COINS IN THE FOUNTAIN (1954), and GENTLEMEN’S AGREEMENT (1947, Oscar-nominated).

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Celebrating PURRfection of living legend JULIE NEWMAR with belated 93rd birthday wishes (8/16)! She's a multi-talented actress (Tony winner, Golden Globe nods), dancer, singer. writer, high IQ lingerie designer, real estate mogul. She was the nexus of my tv youth on the 3 most influential series. /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 07/09/2026

Stay tuned...coming up, in honor of the living legend who was the only major star to make a memorable impact in all 3 1966 debut tv shows the shaped my childhood and adolescence. One show (and the legend's major role) hooked me at age 5, the others in 1969/70 reruns & syndication, all 3 still rock.

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

Bittersweet symmetry on 8/30 for Julie Bishop aka Jacqueline Wells (her birthname/early billing). #OTD born 1914 & #OTD died at age 87 in 2001. After child roles in the silents, she sparkled early among the genius of Laurel & Hardy (ANY OLD PORT, THE BOHEMIAN GIRL) and WC Fields (TILLIE AND GUS) / 1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

Apologies for repeating myself (I thought it was a joke previously)... So Trump has destroyed HOMES (and many peoples' homes) And brought SHAME to our country, neighbors, and the world

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 23/08/2026

Happy 114th Birthday to Gene Kelly born #OTD! Fred Astaire was amazing (& Ginger Rogers matched him, backwards in heels). But Gene made musicals for kids…splashing in puddles, playing baseball, dancing with cartoons, crossing swords, muscular acrobatics, a twinkle in his eye & lilt in his voice. /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 17/08/2026

8/16/61: THE HONEYMOON MACHINE premiered in NYC, the 3rd film as lead for #SteveMcQueen. Not considered among his best, he played against natural type as a fast-talking scheming sailor in one of his few comedies (SOLDIER IN THE RAIN, THE REIVERS). Still, he was the King of Cool & the Cooler King! /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 10/08/2026

#OTD a double (Over The) Rainbow! THE WIZARD OF OZ premiered in Green Bay, WI, while Tin Man Jack Haley celebrated his 41st birthday! Jack appeared on many stages, screens, & airwaves as a comedian, dancer, radio host, singer, drummer, and more. Happy Birthday Jack from the bottom of our Hearts! /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 02/08/2026

#OTD in 1955: the premiere of THE PRIVATE WAR OF MAJOR BENSON, among 140 screen roles for William Demarest (1892-1983). He spent 20 years in vaudeville, started in silent films, and achieved TV fame as Uncle Charley in 215 episodes of MY THREE SONS (1965-72). He was also the youngest of 3 sons! /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 27/07/2026

Dame Olivia de Havilland DBE etched indelible memories for us across 50+ years. #OTD in 2020 at age 104 we lost a true icon who lit up stage &screens with nuanced brilliance, poise, grace, and (for my teenage self) the pluck of adventurous heroines with the humor of someone I’d like to hang with. /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 20/07/2026

Happy Tuesday birthday Don Knotts! (born 7/21/24). He was a rare comedic actor loved by kids as Mr. Limpet (1964), Luther Heggs/Mr. Chicken (1966), Roy Fleming/The Reluctant Astronaut (1967), Dr. Heywood/ The Shakiest Gun in the West (1968) etc. & beloved by all as Deputy Barney Fife (1960-65+). /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 12/07/2026

Happy Birthday Uncle Miltie, Milton Berle born #OTD in 1908. He blazed a trail as tv’s 1st superstar from 1948-1956. Some quip he may have flamed out early from overexposure, but his impact is undeniable. He is credited as doubling/tripling yearly tv set ownership from 3% to 85% of US households. /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 06/07/2026

Singer/bandleader/actor Rudy Vallée died 40 years ago on July 3, 1986 at 85 while watching the Statue of Liberty Centennial ceremonies. His last words were: "I wish we could be there; you know how I love a party.” To my grandparents’ generation, he was the first pop star/teen idol of millions. /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 04/07/2026

#1776 redux (a la Mad) The Bad Egg We’re pushing out that Twerp, Twerp, Twerp That big POT-ass will be gone Pushing out the Twerp, Twerp, Twerp Cross this empty State Fair lawn, he’s a con- -niving manipulator God knows the temperature’s hot enough To bleach a pool Now please impeach this fool

Signed photo of actor Howard da Silva as Ben Franklin in 1776 (1972 film version of the role he originated on Broadway in 1969). Inscribed "Best to Scott, Howard da Silva". Received late 1975 or early 1976.

Front side of photo of actor Ken Howard, who played Thomas Jefferson in 1776 (1972 film version of the role he created on Broadway in 1969). Received in 1974 after his early TV starring roles in ADAM'S RIB (1973) and THE MANHUNTER (1974).

Reverse side of photo of actor Ken Howard, who played Thomas Jefferson in 1776 (1972 film version of the role he created on Broadway in 1969). Received in 1974 . Reproduced signature "Best Wishes - Ken Howard".

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 28/06/2026

Remembering the comedic barbs and acting chops of Jack Carter who passed #OTD at 93 (1922-2015). One of TV’s first variety hosts in 1949 (CAVALCADE OF STARS on DuMont), he worked it for the next 65 years until his last appearance in 2014 on NORM MACDONALD LIVE. He was such a familiar face & voice…/1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 21/06/2026

#OTD 1946 LOVER COME BACK premiered starring George Brent & Lucille Ball, along with many familiar faces. One belonged to George Chandler (1898-1985). Counting uncredited roles & shorts, he was on the silver screen 350+ times (starting with silents, 1928-79) & on TV more than 100 times (1950-79). /1

Signed photo of veteran character actor George Chandler (1898-1985). Inscribed "To Scott, with my best regards, George Chandler." Received in November 1975.

Enveloped sent by George Chandler to me containing he signed photo, received November 1975. Poignant to note that he re-used a return address label that formerly read "Mr. & Mrs. George Chandler" by scratching out the "Mr. & Mrs." part after his wife died.

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 14/06/2026

Not a Match Game, or Three On A Match- just the perfect match: celebrating the marriage of Betty White & Allen Ludden #OTD in 1963. Remember when Betty was "the first lady of game shows" & Allen the host of PASSWORD? They met in 1961 when she guested on his show & enjoyed nearly 20 yrs together. /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 08/06/2026

Remembering the wonderful Swedish actress SIGNE HASSO, who we lost #OTD at 86 (8/15/15-6/7/02.) Howard Hughes encouraged her move to the US in 1941, promoted by RKO as the next Greta Garbo. Signe made a memorable impact in gripping genres (crime noir, spy thrillers, historical dramas, adventure). /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 01/06/2026

Remembering the beautiful & talented Martha Hyer whom we lost 5/31/2014 at nearly 90 yrs. From 1946 she co-starred in 100+ films & tv shows, progressing from B Westerns to big name features (Oscar nom supporting Frank Sinatra in SOME CAME RUNNING 1958), before ending up in Euro-schlock & horror. /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 24/05/2026

Who better to deal with life’s challenges: Martians, Magic, Single Parenting (and Hulking Out!) than BILL BIXBY. #OTD in 1962 his film debut in "Lonely Are The Brave" (Outstanding postmodern Western w/ stellar cast). Bill only made 9 films (2 with Elvis), but he was Mr. TV during my childhood. /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 17/05/2026

Celebrating the subtle, simmering brilliance of JAMES MASON (b. 5/15/09) during his long b-day weekend. No Norman Maine-style benders! How was he not royally honored over 50+ yrs on stage, screen, tv? Critics/peers DID recognize him with multiple noms (3 Oscars, 3 Globes/1 win, 2 BAFTAs, etc.) /1

Signed photo of James Mason, award-winning British actor of stage, screen, tv, and radio over five decades. Inscribed "For Scott / James Mason." Received 1975.

Envelope containing signed photo from James Mason, postmarked 15.10.75 (October 15, 1975). Sent from Saint-Légier village in Switzerland.

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 11/05/2026

80 yrs ago #OTD the Marx Bros. A NIGHT IN CASABLANCA was released (the last w/ all 3 interacting & Groucho as lead.) The Nation’s James Agee noted then: “... it isn't one of their best movies; for the worst they might ever make would be better worth seeing than most other things I can think of.” /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 03/05/2026

Happy Birthday Bing Crosby #botd 1903 – as noted by @citizenscreen.bsky.social the same date GOING MY WAY premiered in 1944 (for which he was the first singer to win the Best Actor Oscar). His influence & impact on pop music from the 20’s onward is hard to overstate – even after Sinatra & Elvis. /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 27/04/2026

Extending the weekend celebration for Shirley MacLaine’s 92nd birthday (April 24)! She has graced our screens with indelible impact since 1955. Her 1st impression on me was as Princess Aouda Around The World In 80 Days (1956) & most recently among my favorite cast on Only Murders In The Building. /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 20/04/2026

Honoring Eddie Albert ahead of his 120th birthday April 22 (d. 2005 at 99). Brilliant straight-man in Green Acres who was always stymied but let the zaniness around him drive the show. Later he charmed in Switch (1975) & earned multiple noms for Oscar, Golden Globe, BAFTA, critics awards, & more. /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 13/04/2026

Late-night post celebrating all-time genius late-night TV guest: the brilliant improv/impersonator comedian Jonathan Winters (d. 4/11/13). Beyond a stream of consciousness, he was 7 Seas. Over 60+-yr career he inspired Robin Williams, Johnny Carson, Tracey Ullman, Lily Tomlin, Steve Martin & more./1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 05/04/2026

#botd Happy 118th Birthday Bette Davis (1908-1989). She won the Academy Award for Best Actress twice, was the first person to earn 10 Oscar noms for acting, & was the first woman to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Film Institute. Overall she won 56 awards out of 89 noms. / 1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 29/03/2026

#Womens History Month Happy Birthday April 1 to Debbie Reynolds: an Unsinkable Singing Nun in the Rain, a TERRIFIC RADIANT HUMBLE web-spinner, and always a dynamic uplifting presence. Across 65+ years, she received a 1965 Oscar nom & 2016 Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award + 20 more wins/48 noms. /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 22/03/2026

Celebrating #Women’sHistoryMonth with distinguished actress Dame Sybil Thorndike, whose career lasted from 1904-1969. I cannot do justice to her stage accomplishments, social impact, & reputation as UK’s most beloved actress of her time (I had only seen her in 3-4 films when I wrote her at 14.) /1

Signed photo of leading British stage actress Dame Sybil Thorndike (1882-1976), whose career spanned 65 years (1904-1969). Received in 1975.

Reverse side of signed photo from Dame Sybil Thorndike, inscribed "Best wishes from Sybil Thorndike".

Note that accompanied the signed photo of Dame Sybil Thorndike, dated November 13, 1975.

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 15/03/2026

An #Oscar -worthy performance in a film about family set in the 30s? Honoring the youngest-ever #AcademyAward winner #TatumONeal for her role as Addie in Paper Moon (1973). Wishing Tatum O'Neal all the best on her continuing journey toward health & happiness. She’s given us so many happy memories./1

1974 signed photo of father-daughter Ryan O'Neal and Tatum O'Neal, inscribed "For You Scott" by Tatum.

1974 signed photo of Tatum O'Neal as Addie in Paper Moon (1973), the role for which she received the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress (the youngest ever recipient). She inscribed the photo "To Scott From Tatum O'Neal"

1974 signed photo of Tatum O'Neal at the Academy Awards ceremony holding her Oscar for Best Supporting Actress (the youngest-ever recipient). Original photo is wallet-sized.

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 08/03/2026

On International Women’s Day, celebrating the grace & GRACIE of Burns & Allen’s funniest partner. George was the straight man for 40 years (lost @100, 30 years ago on 3/9/96). Gracie made his career; he struggled before they met, & achieved his 3-decade legendary solo status after her 1964 death. /1

Signed photo of legendary comedian George Burns, inscribed "To Scott, Best Wishes, George Burns". Received February, 1973.

MEMO FROM...JACK LANGDON (Secty. to Mr. Burns.

2/22/73 Letter evidently lost in mail. Just received this week. Sorry.

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 01/03/2026

The citizens of Mel Brooks’ Rock Ridge were rightly reverent about “Randolph Scott!” (who died 3/2/87 at 89). 100 film credits included comedy turns in Follow The Fleet (1936) & My Favorite Wife (1940), but his 60 Westerns established his iconic cowboy star bona fides on many alltime top-10 lists /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 22/02/2026

Honoring a powerful voice for representation & justice during Black History Month: the legendary Ms. Cicely Tyson, igniting stage/screens over 2/3 of her 96 yrs. She played the strongest women I saw early on, Rebecca Morgan (Sounder, 1972) & Miss Jane Pittman (1974). Both would’ve kicked MAGA ass…/1

Signed photo of actor Cicely Tyson, received 1974 or 1975. Her career on stage & screen spanned more than 60 years, nearly two-thirds of her 96 years upon her death in 2021.

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 15/02/2026

Celebrating a President & Founding Father, separately: remembering Howard da Silva (d. 2/16/86). A protean talent over 50+ year career who played FDR (1977) & fondly remembered as Ben Franklin in 1776 (stage & screen). He also originated Jud in Oklahoma! (1943) & directed Ossie Davis on Broadway. /1

Signed photo of actor Howard da Silva in character as Ben Franklin from the film version of 1776 (reprising his role from the Broadway musical). Inscribed Best to Scott, Howard da Silva. Received 1974.

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 08/02/2026

When life gives you Lemons: celebrating: Don, Liz (Tina), & #BOTD #JackLemmon (extra m for Magic Time, his catchphrase before each take.) Happy 101st to ultimate everyman whose tragicomedic gifts netted 2 Oscars (8 noms), 4 Globes (21 noms), 3 BAFTAS (8 noms), 2 Emmys (6 noms), 2 Tony noms, etc. /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 01/02/2026

While the world fights to end MAGA nightmares– & Minneapolis ensures ICE gets no sleep –celebrating a queen of the Wake-Up/Call Back: Suzanne Pleshette (1/31/37-1/19/08). She & Bob created my all-time favorite final episode coda (Newhart, ‘90), built on their strong beginning together (TBNS, ‘72) /1

Signed photo of Emmy- and Golden-Globe nominated comedic and dramatic actor Suzanne Pleshette (January 31, 1973 - January 19, 2008), star of film, television, and theater. Inscribed TO SCOTT, BEST WISHES. Received in 1973 or 1974.

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 25/01/2026

Honoring our Nordic allies & historic Minnesota immigrants in remembering superb Swedish actress Ingrid Thulin, born a century ago January 27. Her brilliant multinational career included seminal work with Bergman, Visconti, Resnais, Minnelli, etc. (performing in Swedish, Italian, French, English) /1

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 18/01/2026

Happy Birthday Danny Kaye (born David Kaminsky, 2011). POTUS 45/47 will never match his legacy: Danny was asked to accept the 1965 Nobel Peace Prize on behalf of UNICEF ("for its effort to enhance solidarity between nations & reduce the difference between rich & poor states.") He didn’t keep it. /1

Signed photo of multitalented actor/singer/dancer/comedian/polymath Danny Kaye received in 1973 or 74. At that time I had requested a personal inscription to my name - so Danny apparently wrote that on top of a photo he had previously signed en masse. LOL!

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 12/01/2026

Not turning away from current horrors IRL, but remembering an early foundation of my faith in Good besting evil. On January 12 1966 I was hooked by the angles & spangles of #Batman on tv before ever reading a comic book. The first 60s action classic our mom let us watch at that (bat-) time. /1

Autographed photo of actor César Romero (1907-1994), best-known as The Joker on the Batman tv series. Inscribed To Scott Johnson, with the very good wishes of Cesar Romero. Received around 1972 or 1973.

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 05/01/2026

Saludos de Enero to a globally renowned multitalented Puerto Rican artist – long before Bad Bunny: José Ferrer born on 1/8. Inaugural Tony winner (‘47) & first Hispanic best actor Oscar (‘50) for Cyrano de Bergerac + many acting/directing/writing awards & noms. Early supporter of progressive causes.

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 28/12/2025

Remembering Lew Ayres born 117 years ago. He made an immediate, indelible impact in All Quiet On The Western Front (1930), the 1st major media cry for pacifism. Oscar-nom for Johnny Belinda (1948), groundbreaking in its treatment of rape & bigotry. Later the thoughtful VP in Advise & Consent (1962)…

Signed photo of actor Lew Ayres, born December 28, 1908. Inscribed To Scott Johnson, Best Wishes, Lew Ayres.

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 22/12/2025

As we face fascism-enabling mainstream media today, appreciate ‪@moviessilently.bsky.social‬ reinforcing the racist BIRTH OF A NATION (1915). Director DW Griffith was most responsible for this first film shown in the White House. How do we consider all the creatives involved in this A-bomi-Nation?

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 15/12/2025

Happy Hanukkah to Benjamin Kubelsky, aka Jack Benny. Violin virtuoso who underplayed, icon of 30s/40s radio & early tv, influential through the 60s until his death in 1974 at 80. Jack was slated to be in the Sunshine Boys until illness required best friend George Burns to step in (& win an Oscar).

Signed photo of radio-tv comedian Jack Benny, inscribed To Scott, Best Wishes, Jack Benny. Received in 1973 or 74.

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 08/12/2025

“It all started in a 5,000 watt radio station in Fresno California, a 65 dollar paycheck and a crazy dream.” Happy 103rd BD Ted Knight! As Ted Baxter he accepted a made-up "Teddy Award" with those words. FIFA saw an old MTM rerun & thought up their fictitious Peace Prize to pacify another blowhard.

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 01/12/2025

Belated 87th birthday wishes to Rich Little, an impressive impressionist. His artform was at its peak in the 60s and 70s, when he helped to make Nixon seem foolish pre-Watergate. Sadly, Rich’s connection to POTUS 45/47 is no laughing matter. He’s on record as a 2020 election denying Trump supporter.

Signed photo of impressionist Rich Little, received around 1973 or 1974.

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 23/11/2025

Celebrating Geraldine Page & her 101st birthday yesterday November 22! An extraordinary talent recognized with multiple nominations (4 Tonys, 8 Oscars, 9 Golden Globes, 2 BAFTAS, 3 Emmys) she did win one of each (2 Emmys) but unbelievably no Tony. (1979 induction to American Theatre Hall of Fame).

Hand-written letter from actress Geraldine Page received in 1974, which accompanied three signed photos that she sent.

Signed photo of actress Geraldine Page received 1974.

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Scott A. Johnson, PhD @scottajohnsonphd.bsky.social · 17/11/2025

Rest well, Roy Scherer: commemorating Rock Hudson's 100th birthday November 17. Larger than life in many ways, a true "Giant" (Oscar-nom 1956). I knew him first as Commissioner McMillan (1971-77), then his charming romcoms with Doris Day. His tragic 1985 death challenged and changed AIDS awareness.

Signed photo of actor Rock Hudson, received around 1973-74. (Front view)

Back view of Rock Hudson signed photo postcard, inviting recipients to purchase larger photos at prices ranging from 5 cents to 25 cents.

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