Former FCC Chairman Newton Minow, Who Called TV Programming a 'Vast Wasteland,' Dies at 97

Minow addressed the National Association of Broadcasters in 1961 and criticized the poor quality of television programming, urging reform and public service.
During his time as FCC chairman under JFK, Minow pushed for legislation requiring UHF reception on TVs, opening up more channels, and allowing satellite communications.
Minow was instrumental in establishing presidential debates on TV and served on the boards of PBS, CBS, and an ad agency.
Minow continued advocating for free airtime for political ads and more educational content on TV after leaving the FCC.
Minow received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2016 for his impact on media and public service.