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60 Minutes

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60 Minutes is a prominent American television news magazine broadcast on the CBS network.

New60minutes
New60minutes

It is defined by a unique, reporter-centered investigative style. Rather than just reading headlines, the program focuses on individuals involved in major national issues. This approach makes complex stories feel more personal and direct. Many experts consider it one of the most esteemed news magazines in American television history. It has become a cultural phenomenon through its deep reporting.

The program uses specific techniques to guide its viewers through different stories. One of its most recognizable features is the large stopwatch used during transitions.

60 Minutes
60 Minutes

This clock marks the movement between segments and provides a sense of pacing. The show also uses chroma key technology to create visual backgrounds. This technique allows producers to place images or text behind the presenters. Additionally, reporters often use hidden cameras or visit subjects at home to uncover facts. These methods allow the show to investigate topics thoroughly.

Historically, the show has undergone several visual and structural changes. The original 1968 set featured a cream-colored backdrop. Later, the producers switched to a black backdrop, which is still used today. The show's logo has also evolved over the decades. Early versions used Helvetica type with lowercase letters for "minutes." Later, a more famous logo appeared using Eurostile type with uppercase letters. In 2006, the background color changed to red, and the stopwatch was moved to an upright position.

60 Minutes was created by Don Hewitt and Bill Leonard. It debuted on September 24, 1968, as a bi-weekly program. The first hosts were Mike Wallace and Harry Reasoner. They sat on opposite sides of the set to present the news. The very first broadcast included segments on presidential candidates and an interview about police brutality. It even featured a brief, scripted piece called "A Digression." Interestingly, the very first episode was sponsored solely by Alpo dog food.

The program's schedule has shifted many times due to network rules and sports. In 1972, it aired from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Eastern time. However, NFL football games often interrupted this slot. A rule called the Prime Time Access Rule changed how networks managed their time. Eventually, CBS found a permanent home for the show on December 7, 1975. It has aired at 7:00 p.m. Eastern time ever since. This makes it the longest-running prime time program currently in production.

Despite its current success, the show faced early struggles with low ratings. During its first three years, it did not earn much money for the network. This was common because news programs in prime time were often unprofitable. However, the show's popularity grew during the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal. By 1976, it became the top-rated program on Sunday nights. By 1979, it reached the number one spot in the Nielsen ratings. This success turned the show into a massive financial hit for CBS.

Today, the show remains a major part of the American media landscape.

60 Minutes
60 Minutes

It is hosted by various correspondents who do not share screen time. Current full-time hosts include Lesley Stahl, Scott Pelley, and Bill Whitaker. The show's impact is recognized by many major rankings. TV Guide ranked it number six on its list of the 50 greatest shows ever. Variety also ranked it as the twentieth-greatest TV show of all time. It continues to serve as a primary source for investigative journalism.

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File:60 Minutes.jpg
60 Minutes.jpg
File:General Schwartz on 60 Minutes.jpg
General Schwartz on 60 Minutes.jpg
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New60minutes.jpg
File:Henry Schuster at the 68th Annual Peabody Awards for 60 Minutes-Lifeline.jpg
Henry Schuster at the 68th Annual Peabody...
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