“The Rise and Fall of Edward R. Murrow” is an extremely insightful chapter in Watching Television Come of Age, edited by Lewis L. Gould. The chapter compiles original columns written by his father, Jack Gould, a television critic of The New York Times from 1947 to 1972. Most importantly, it illustrates the triumphs and failures of a prestigious radio and TV personality, Edward R. Murrow of CBS, (the Columbia Broadcasting System).
The chapter deeply reflects on Murrow’s sensational career at CBS, during the primitive years of television journalism. The powerful figure collaborates with Fred W. Friendly in the 1940’s radio program called “Hear It Now,” and later hosts the televised version, “See It Now” in 1951. This thirty-minute review represents the journalistic power of television, and sets a tremendous example for future news programs. It is significant because it covers controversial issues for the first time.
Jack Gould’s column, “Video Journalism: Treatment of Radulovich Case History by “See It Now” Is Fine Reporting” elaborates on Murrow’s eloquent coverage of the Case of Lieutenant Milo Radulovich. Radulovich is facing dismissal from the Air Force, due to allegations of “pro-Communist sympathies against his father and sister” (82). Murrow reveals vivid footage of the lieutenant, his wife, his sister, his father and an attorney. He even conducts an interview with an anti-Communist official. Gould’s descriptions of Murrow’s documentary are clear with great details and quotations. This chapter helps readers to comprehend the effectiveness of Edward R. Murrow’s “See It Now” CBS program, and how it breaks down barriers for broadcasters today.
Unfortunately, Edward R. Murrow’s and Fred W. Friendly’s “See It Now” comes to an abrupt end in July 1958. After seven successful years, the program finishes due to lack of sponsorship. In Gould’s column, he assures readers that a weekly half-hour series entitled “Small World” will be produced by Mr. Murrow and Mr. Friendly once more. However, Jack Gould should include more information about the demise of Edward R. Murrow, as depicted in the 2005 film Good Night, and Good Luck. The movie highlights detailed scenarios that led to the demise of Murrow and the cancellation of “See It Now.” It also suggests that there is more to the story.
Overall, “The Rise and Fall of Edward R. Murrow” edited by Lewis L. Gould is an informative chapter that helps readers to understand the importance of Edward R. Murrow. It portrays his victorious program that comes to an unpredictable close in July 1958. Critic Jack Gould does an exemplary job of discussing Edward R. Murrow’s impact on early TV journalism.
