The History of American Television

Dates: January 26 - March 2, 2026
Meets: M from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM
 Location: Osher Online
Cost:  $75.00

There are still openings remaining at this time.

Date Day Time
01/26/2026Monday1 PM to 2:30 PM
02/02/2026Monday1 PM to 2:30 PM
02/09/2026Monday1 PM to 2:30 PM
02/16/2026Monday1 PM to 2:30 PM
02/23/2026Monday1 PM to 2:30 PM
03/02/2026Monday1 PM to 2:30 PM

Please note: This course program requires membership in a 2025-2026 OLLI at MSU Membership

Description

This program will not be recorded.

This video-rich, conversational course offers a dynamic biography of American television-from its 1920s conception and 1930s debut to its digital-era reinvention. We will trace TV's evolution through its early development, postwar boom, rebellious adolescence in the 1970s and identity crisis in the early 2000s. We will explore the sitcoms, dramas, news, sports and specials that have defined generations. From Matlock to Abbott Elementary, from The Last of Us to The Bear, this course examines how the medium has evolved-and how it has impacted us. Whether a lifelong fan or new to the history of television, this course invites us to rediscover the highs, lows and cultural impact of America's favorite screen.

About the Osher Online Program

Osher Online programs are provided to OLLI at MSU from the Osher National Resource Center at Northwestern University. Experience shared online presentations with OLLI members from coast to coast! As part of the Osher Online program, OLLI at MSU members will enjoy national speakers and interact with fellow OLLI members nationwide.

Scholarship

Apply for a needs-based scholarship to take this offering.

Meet the Instructor

Fee:  $75.00

Osher Online

This is a real-time (live) online class that meets at the specified day(s)/time(s) listed.

Jim McKairnes

Jim McKairnes is a former CBS Television executive who writes and teaches about television history. He has taught at DePaul, Temple and Middle Tennessee State universities, and is the author of All in the Decade, a book on 1970s television. Since 2020, he has taught regularly for OLLI programs nationwide and currently resides in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Date Day Time Location
01/26/2026Monday1 PM to 2:30 PM Osher Online
02/02/2026Monday1 PM to 2:30 PM Osher Online
02/09/2026Monday1 PM to 2:30 PM Osher Online
02/16/2026Monday1 PM to 2:30 PM Osher Online
02/23/2026Monday1 PM to 2:30 PM Osher Online
03/02/2026Monday1 PM to 2:30 PM Osher Online