Ernie Kovacs collection, 1951-1961

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Summary

Creators:
Kovacs, Ernie, 1919-1962
Abstract:
This collection primarily contains scripts, rundowns, and notes from the career of Ernie Kovacs, circa 1951-1961. The collection also contains small amounts of other production material including treatments, prop lists, guest lists, cue sheets, lyric sheets, and other related items.
Extent:
4.0 Linear feet 4 boxes
Language:
English
Preferred citation:

[Box/folder# or item name], Ernie Kovacs collection, Collection no. 2193, Cinematic Arts Library, USC Libraries, University of Southern California

Background

Scope and content:

This collection primarily contains scripts, rundowns, and notes from the career of Ernie Kovacs, circa 1951-1961. The collection also contains small amounts of other production material including treatments, prop lists, guest lists, cue sheets, lyric sheets, and other related items.

Biographical / historical:

Born in Trenton, New Jersey in 1919, Ernie Kovacs began his career working in radio, then later went on to become one of television's early pioneers in the 1950's. Known for his spontaneity, Kovacs is considered to be one of the first innovators of television sketch comedy, and his use of visual illusions, special effects, and sight gags were unlike anything seen before on television. In May of 1962, Kovacs won an Emmy for his series of half-hour television specials for ABC. The award was given posthumously, as Kovacs was killed in an automobile crash on January 13 of that year.

Arrangement:

The Ernie Kovacs collection is organized into two series. The first series is entitled "Show Scripts", and the material is arranged chronologically. The second series is entitled "Bit Scripts" and begins with Box 3: Folder 38. The material is arranged alphabetically by Title starting with Box 4: Folder 7. The material from Box 3: Folder 38 to Box 4: Folder 6 is not arranged alphabetically, but is dated from 1954-1956.

Access and use

Restrictions:

COLLECTION STORED OFF-SITE. Advance notice required for access.

Terms of access:

All requests for permission to publish or quote from manuscripts must be submitted in writing to the Cinematic Arts Librarian. Permission for publication is given on behalf of the Cinematic Arts Library as the owner of the physical items and is not intended to include or imply permission of the copyright holder, which must also be obtained.

Preferred citation:

[Box/folder# or item name], Ernie Kovacs collection, Collection no. 2193, Cinematic Arts Library, USC Libraries, University of Southern California

Location of this collection:
Cinematic Arts Library
Doheny Memorial Library, Room G4
Los Angeles, CA 90089-0185, US
Contact:
(213) 740-8383
ctlibarc@usc.edu
Website