John Aylesworth

Having seen a gap that needed filling in the television landscape of the late 1960s, writer-producer John Aylesworth created a variety program targeted towards lovers of country music and culture, "Hee Haw" (CBS/syndicated, 1969-1992), one of the longest-running and best-loved music and comedy shows of all time. Its cornpone humor and wealth of country talent was a bit of an irony, since Aylesworth and his writing partner, Frank Peppiat, were both Canadians and had never even visited the American South. Nevertheless, the pair struck a chord with rural audiences, who helped make their show a cultural icon. A Peabody Award winner among many other accolades, including for his work on shows like "The Sonny and Cher Show" (CBS, 1976-77) and "Frank Sinatra: A Man and His Music," (CBS, 1965), Aylesworth was a prolific and savvy figure in television history, whose best work kept millions tuning in every week.