The Television Academy Hall of Fame was founded by a former president of the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, the late John H. Mitchell [1], to honor individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to television.
In the words of the selection committee, the Hall of Fame is for "persons who have made outstanding contributions in the arts, sciences or management of television, based upon either cumulative contributions and achievements or a singular contribution or achievement." Mitchell remained the chair of the Hall of Fame until his death in January 1988. He was succeeded by Edgar J. Scherick, who in turn passed the reins to Norman Lear.
The Television Hall of Fame does not have a museum open to the public like the Country Music Hall of Fame or Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame or other such "halls of fame" and does not appear to have plans for one in the near future.
The first ceremony in 1984 celebrated the careers of Lucille Ball, Milton Berle, Paddy Chayefsky, Norman Lear, Edward R. Murrow, William S. Paley and David Sarnoff. The honorees received glass statuettes in the form of two ballet dancers that were created by sculptor and painter Pascal to reflect the self-discipline required in all facets of the arts. Since 1988, inductees have brought home an award in the form of a crystal television screen atop a cast-bronze base. The new awards were designed by the late art director Romain Johnston.
New inductees are announced every year or two. No less than five new members are announced each period. All of the inductees have been individuals or pairs with the exception of the series I Love Lucy during the seventh year of inductees.
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