William Milton Asher, a multifaceted individual of immense talent, was born on August 8, 1921, and left an indelible mark on the television and film industries during his remarkable lifetime, ultimately passing away on July 16, 2012. As a masterful producer, director, and screenwriter, Asher's impressive career was marked by an astonishing number of achievements, with his prolific work as an early television director standing out in particular. Over the course of his illustrious career, Asher produced or directed an astonishing twenty-six or more television series, cementing his status as one of the most accomplished and influential figures in the medium.
Asher's television career commenced with the adaptation of the popular radio show, Our Miss Brooks, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey in the realm of television. This initial foray into the world of small-screen entertainment was merely the precursor to his future accomplishments, as he soon found himself at the helm of the iconic sitcom, I Love Lucy, by the year 1952. As a result of his early success, Asher earned the esteemed reputation as an "early wunderkind of TV-land", a title that not only acknowledged his remarkable talent but also solidified his position as a pioneer in the field of television.
In fact, his impact on the medium was so significant that he was even credited with "inventing" the sitcom in one prominent magazine article, a testament to his innovative approach and groundbreaking contributions to the world of television. This distinction not only underscores his influence on the development of the sitcom genre but also highlights his status as a visionary in the television industry.
The illustrious career of Asher, a stalwart figure in the realm of television direction, was marked by numerous nominations for the most esteemed awards in the industry. A total of four Emmy Awards, the pinnacle of recognition in the television world, were bestowed upon him, with a singular victory in 1966 for his masterful direction of the iconic television series "Bewitched". Additionally, his exceptional work on "I Love Lucy" in 1951 earned him a nomination for the DGA Award, a testament to his unwavering dedication to his craft.
Biography of Allan Burns:
Allan Burns is a renowned American television writer, producer, and director. Born on July 5, 1935, in New York City, Burns began his career in the entertainment industry as a writer for the popular television show "The Patty Duke Show". He went on to work as a writer and producer for several notable television series, including "The Dick Van Dyke Show", "The Mary Tyler Moore Show", and "Taxi".
Burns' most notable work, however, is his collaboration with James L. Brooks on the iconic sitcom "Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman". The show, which aired from 1976 to 1977, was a groundbreaking and influential series that explored the lives of two women with the same name living in different parts of the country.
Throughout his illustrious career, Burns has been nominated for numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards. He has also worked on several films, including "Taxi" (2004) and "The Man Who Fell to Earth" (1976). Burns is widely regarded as one of the most talented and influential television writers and producers of his generation.
Asher's personal life was marked by a series of four marriages, each one a significant chapter in his life's narrative. His first marriage, to the talented actress Danny Sue Nolan, produced two children and lasted until 1961, when the couple decided to go their separate ways.
Undeterred, Asher married the enchanting Elizabeth Montgomery in 1963, just as his iconic television show Bewitched was about to premiere. This marriage, which lasted a decade, yielded three children and was marked by a deep emotional connection between the two stars.
Asher's third marriage, to the accomplished actress Joyce Bulifant, was a significant departure from his previous relationships. The couple adopted Joyce's son, the talented actor and director John Mallory Asher, before eventually divorcing in 1993.
Asher's fourth and final marriage, to Meredith Coffin Asher, took place in 1998, marking the culmination of his personal journey. Throughout his life, Asher's marriages were marked by a deep commitment to his partners and a desire to build a lasting connection.
Asher's existence was characterized by an unwavering commitment to his art, as well as his significant contributions to the realms of television and cinema. His enduring legacy continues to be revered by enthusiasts and professionals within the industry, with his body of work remaining an integral component of the rich tapestry that comprises the history of American television.
