Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams welcomes Jennifer Keishin Armstrong, author of Mary and Lou and Rhoda and Ted, to spotlight the pioneering women writers behind The Mary Tyler Moore Show. From interviews with MTM creatives to reflections on iconic episodes, this conversation sets the stage for a three-part series on women in the writer's room and their groundbreaking influence on 1970s television.
Highlights include:
- The era's feminist context and MTM's unique portrayal of women
- How Rhoda and Mary's friendship redefined female dynamics on screen
- Behind-the-scenes insight on the Emmy-winning episode "Chuckles Bites the Dust," written by Joan Darling
- Reflections on actors like Cloris Leachman (Phyllis), Betty White (Sue Ann), and Lisa Gerritsen (Bess)
Armstrong also explains how The Dick Van Dyke Show laid groundwork for MTM's success and how real women writers brought humor, nuance, and feminism to primetime.
Referenced ATH episodes:
YouTube Audio Version Available:
https://youtu.be/2yknoxSMGWQ
