Wikipedia:Reference desk/Archives/Humanities/2015 October 10

= October 10 =

Does any institution tape TV?
I'd like to access old TV programs + advertisement. I only have interest in the complete broadcasting, as it was seen back then. Is there any source that archives TV? --Jubilujj 2015 (talk) 19:00, 10 October 2015 (UTC)


 * I can't prove a negative with references, but no. There isn't a complete archive of TV.  In fact, some networks themselves wiped their tapes so even classic TV shows such as Doctor Who don't have complete collections.  That said, you can post on various forums and sites to request if any particular show is recorded. Bear in mind also that in many cases there are regional difference in which ads have been shown so even then you won't always get what you expect.  Is there a particular show you wish to see? Mingmingla (talk) 22:16, 10 October 2015 (UTC)


 * There are some "classic TV" networks that include old commercials along with the shows. They also throw in new ads to pay the bills, though.  BUZZR is one such network, which plays old game shows, including the "internal commercials" (part of the show).  It's fun looking at some of the old electronic items they were pushing. StuRat (talk) 23:07, 10 October 2015 (UTC)


 * In the United States, there are some institutions with archives of old TV shows—the largest may be the Paley Center for Media in New York and Los Angeles. But these are nothing like complete. Deor (talk) 09:56, 11 October 2015 (UTC)


 * Also note that talk and comedy shows from the 1950's had much more blatant product placement, so those ads are there to stay. I recall from the Jack Benny Show: "How can you afford this beautiful new Cadillac on what I pay you ?"  "Well, I've worked for you for 20 years, Jack, and I've scrimped and saved every penny, and just last week I had finally saved enough ... for a lottery ticket, and darned if I didn't win !". StuRat (talk) 16:30, 12 October 2015 (UTC)