Papers of radio and television personalities Johnny Olson and Penny (Powers) Olson consisting of: biographical material, correspondence, material from the Olson's professional activities, publicity about the Olsons both separately and as a couple, and photographs. Johnny Olson, who began his career as a radio announcer before emceeing a number of popular radio shows including Ladies Be Seated and Rumpus Room, made the successful transition from radio to television, eventually appearing on all three major networks (ABC, CBS, and NBC) on numerous shows including The Jackie Gleason Show, The Dom DeLuise Show, as well as The Price Is Right. Penny Olson's career included work on air and in front of the camera serving as hostess for both Ladies Be Seated and Rumpus Room as well as behind the scenes as an early pioneer of corporate sponsorship deals and merchandise giveaways. Eventually Penny Olson shifted her attention to a music career, in particular gospel music, recording and performing on the air. The processed portion of this collection is summarized above, dates 1927-1997, and is described in the register. Additional accessions are described below.
