The Ed Sullivan Show
The Ed Sullivan Show was a television variety show that aired from 1948 until 1971. It was hosted by Ed Sullivan, who was known for bringing a diverse range of acts onto his show, including musicians, comedians, and acrobats.
One of the most famous acts that appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show was The Beatles. The band made their first appearance on the show on February 9, 1964, and it was watched by over 73 million people.
Ed Sullivan's Opinion of The Beatles
Despite the huge success of The Beatles' performance on The Ed Sullivan Show, it is not clear whether Ed Sullivan actually liked the band. In fact, there is evidence to suggest that he did not.
According to several sources, including The Beatles themselves, Ed Sullivan was not a fan of rock and roll music. He preferred more traditional forms of entertainment, such as opera and classical music.
Furthermore, it has been reported that Ed Sullivan was initially hesitant to book The Beatles for his show. He was worried that their music would be too controversial and that their long hair would offend his conservative audience.
However, despite his reservations, Ed Sullivan eventually agreed to book The Beatles for three appearances on his show. The first appearance was a huge success, and it helped to launch the band's career in the United States.
The Legacy of The Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show
Regardless of whether or not Ed Sullivan liked The Beatles, there is no denying the impact that their performances had on his show. The band's appearances on The Ed Sullivan Show are now legendary, and they are often cited as a defining moment in the history of rock and roll.
Furthermore, The Beatles' success on The Ed Sullivan Show helped to pave the way for other British bands, such as The Rolling Stones and The Who, to find success in the United States.
In Conclusion
So, did Ed Sullivan like The Beatles? The answer is not clear, but it is likely that he did not. However, despite his personal opinions, he recognized the band's talent and their potential to be successful on his show. And, as history has shown, The Beatles' appearances on The Ed Sullivan Show were a major turning point in the history of music.