Fred Silverman was born in 1937 and embarked on a journey that would eventually lead him to the television industry. He began his career in the mail-room of ABC-TV in the late 1950s, demonstrating his dedication and potential for growth.
As he rose through the ranks, Silverman became the director of program development at WGN-TV in Chicago during the early 1960s. His impressive work in this role caught the attention of CBS-TV, which offered him a position as head of Daytime Programming in New York.
In 1970, Silverman took on the role of programming head at CBS, where he was responsible for developing some of the most iconic television shows of the decade. His impressive portfolio included hits such as The Mary Tyler Moore Show, All in the Family, M*A*S*H, The Jeffersons, Kojak, and The Sonny and Cher Show.
In 1975, Silverman left CBS for ABC-TV, where he worked closely with Michael Eisner and Brandon Tartikoff. During his time at ABC, he developed new hits such as Laverne & Shirley, The Love Boat, Donny and Marie, and Soap. By the end of the 1977-78 season, ABC had achieved unprecedented success, ranking number one in both daytime and nighttime programming.
In 1978, Silverman joined NBC as President and CEO, where he played a crucial role in reversing the network's declining audience numbers. He oversaw the development of new programs such as Diff'rent Strokes, Real People, and Hill Street Blues, and made key decisions that led to the creation of St. Elsewhere and Cheers.
During his tenure at NBC, Silverman also promoted Brandon Tartikoff to President of Entertainment and laid the groundwork for the network's successful turnaround in the 1980s. However, changes at parent company RCA led to his departure in June 1981, and he was replaced by Grant Tinker.
Undeterred, Silverman went on to form "The Fred Silverman Company" and established himself as an independent producer. He enjoyed significant success with shows such as Perry Mason Movies, Matlock, In the Heat of the Night, Jake and the Fatman, and Diagnosis Murder.
Today, Silverman remains active in the television industry, working as an independent producer and program consultant. His impressive legacy as a television executive and producer continues to inspire new generations of industry professionals.
