Watch The David Susskind Show

The David Susskind Show was a popular long-running American television show produced and hosted by David Susskind, which aired from 1958 until 1987. The show was a talk show that focused on a broad range of topics, sometimes with an emphasis on politics, culture and society.

Over its three decades span, The David Susskind Show gained a reputation as an engaging and provocative forum for discussion on a multitude of topics. Susskind himself was a highly respected figure in the world of television, with a reputation for being one of the most intelligent and informed hosts in the industry.

The show's format typically involved interviews with notable figures from the realms of politics, entertainment, and culture. However, what set it apart from other talk shows was its willingness to delve into more controversial and divisive topics. Susskind was never afraid to explore the darker and more complex aspects of society, and his guests were often equally unafraid to speak their minds.

The show was also known for its humorous and irreverent tone, with many notable comedians appearing as guests over the years. Among these were Mel Brooks, who would go on to become a regular on the show, and whose wit and humor gave it a unique flavor.

Throughout its run, The David Susskind Show tackled a dizzying array of topics. In the realm of politics, Susskind interviewed some of the most prominent figures of the day, including Richard Nixon, Robert F. Kennedy, Malcolm X, and Lyndon B. Johnson. The show also explored the political and cultural upheavals of the 1960s and 1970s, delving into topics such as civil rights, student activism, and the counterculture movement.

However, it was not just in the realm of politics that The David Susskind Show made its mark. The program also explored cultural topics such as film, literature, and art. In this regard, Susskind hosted interviews with some of the most enduring cultural figures of the day, such as Norman Mailer, Truman Capote, and Gore Vidal.

Perhaps one of the most memorable aspects of the show was the way it approached controversial topics. At a time when television was still very much beholden to the mainstream, The David Susskind Show was a rare space where difficult and controversial issues could be explored in depth. The show's format allowed for topics to be explored from multiple angles, with guests often sharply disagreeing on key issues.

This willingness to delve into controversy sometimes drew criticism from conservative groups, who accused the show of promoting a liberal bias. However, for many viewers, The David Susskind Show was a welcome antidote to the blandness that often characterized television.

Four years after Susskind's death, the show was revived under the name Open End. It continued to host guests from all walks of life on a variety of issues, albeit without Susskind's dynamic presence.

In conclusion, The David Susskind Show was a groundbreaking television program that pushed the boundaries of what could be discussed on television. Its willingness to tackle difficult and often volatile issues, combined with Susskind's sharp mind and engaging style, made it must-watch television for many viewers. It remains a fascinating time capsule of American culture, politics, and society from the late 1950s to the late 1980s.