Pioneers of Television

Crime Dramas

Season 2, Episode 3 of 4

As viewers reveled in being transported to shadowy underworlds, creative geniuses emerged in the forms of Jack Webb ("Dragnet"), Desi Arnaz ("The Untouchables") and Bruce Geller ("Mannix" and "Mission: Impossible"). Groundbreaking actors Bill Cosby ("I Spy") and Angie Dickinson ("Police Woman") reveal the methods behind their successes as the first African-American and breakthrough female lead characters in a television series. Barbara Bain and Martin Landau share the secrets behind the success of the innovative hit "Mission: Impossible, " while the evolution of Peter Falk's amazing characterization in his role as "Columbo" is recalled. And James Garner, in his only recent interview, along with series creator Stephen J. Cannell, recounts the success of the "The Rockford Files'" reluctant crime solver.

Previously Aired

Day
Time
Channel
2/1/2011
9 p.m.
2/2/2011
2 a.m.
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