The Smothers Brothers look back on infamous CBS firing

The Smothers Brothers remain one of the most enduring and controversial comedy teams in the history of television. ALL ARTS sits down with Tommy and Dick, and author / TV critic David Bianculli, and discuss their lasting influence. WANT TO KNOW MORE? Thomas and Dick recently donated artifacts from their landmark 1960s show “The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour“ to the National Comedy Center to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of their firing from CBS — a decision that reverberated throughout the entertainment industry. Watch as the pair reunited for the first time in nine years, unveiling a display of archival material including their iconic red suit jackets, Tom’s guitar and Dick’s bass; along with scripts and creative papers, a letter from President Lyndon Johnson, which was read by the Smothers Brothers on their TV show, as well as legal documents from their landmark 1970s litigation against CBS in defense of their First Amendment rights. Learn more at