Ruth Lyons: First Lady of Television

Ruth Lyons: First Lady of Television (2011) is a documentary film directed by David Ashbrock.

Even though her program was only seen in four Midwestern cities, Ruth Lyons presided over America's highest-rated daytime TV talk show for nearly two decades! This documentary draws upon rare and previously undiscovered footage, along with comments from associates and admirers to create a portrait of an outspoken, multi-talented woman who became one of the most beloved and influential figures in TV history. Featuring the Recollections Of: Carol Channing, John Davidson, Phyllis Diller, Phil Donahue, David Letterman, Johnny Mathis, Peter Nero, Bonnie Lou, Nick Clooney, Oscar Robertson and many others, along with archival audio and video of Ruth Lyons' 50-50 Club.

Cast

Ruth Lyons

Self (archive footage)

David Letterman

Self

Nick Clooney

Self

Carol Channing

Self

John Davidson

Self

Phyllis Diller

Self

Phil Donahue

Self

Johnny Mathis

Self

Peter Nero

Self

Bonnie Lou

Self

Oscar Robertson

Self

Nancy James

Narrator