Television Producer and Writer Steven Bochco.
Television producer Steven Bochco. He is, arguably, one of the most influential creative people in television. With shows like "Hill Street Blues" and "L.A.Law," Bochco can claim credit for a whole TV genre: intensely realistic dramas that use an ensemble cast and multiple, interweaving plots that quickly cut back and forth. Those programs helped make NBC the top network and the perceived leader for innovative programming. As the other networks strive to produce programs of similar quality, TV critics have talked about the "Bochco-ization of network TV, as more and more programs use the Bochco trademarks of large casts, gallows humor and allusions to unconventional sex. Bochco began writing for Universal Studios while still in college. His first credit was shared with Rod Serling. He later wrote segments of "Columbo" and "McMillan and Wife." Last year, Bochco signed an exclusive agreement with ABC to produce 10 new series. So far, he's introduced "Hooperman," which the critics generally like. His next project, "Doogie Howser, M.D." will debut later this fall.
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Other segments from the episode on September 5, 1989
New Winds Fuse Jazz and Classical Music.
Jazz Critic Kevin Whitehead reviews the first album by the trio New Winds, whose members have experiences in both jazz and classical music. Clarinetist J.D. Parran has played with an improviser's collective called The Black Artists Group, saxophonist Ned Rothenberg plays with a band that does covers of 60s songs, and flutist Robert Dick has played primarily with classical ensembles.
Sound Designer Randy Thom.
Sound Designer Randy Thom. He began his career in community radio (WYSO in Yellow Springs, Ohio) producing live music and dramas. He then moved into producing sound for films, although he still produces some independent radio dramas.
The "Preppie" Murderer.
Book Critic John Leonard reviews Wasted, an investigation of last year's `Preppie Murder' trial in New York City. Robert Chambers, son of a wealthy New York City couple, was charged with the murder of Jennifer Levin, herself the product of wealthy parents and New York's finest private schools. The trial was a headline-grabber for Chambers' controversial defense and for its exposure of the aimless, dissolute lifestyle of the children of the wealthy.
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