80s TV Ladies

"When someone came at me or was very mean to me or made it clear that I was not welcome on the line, I still had my love for dance. I leaned into my dream as a child, and I was living it wholeheartedly, and they weren't allowed to take it away." — Jennifer JonesFor a century, the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes have represented the gold standard of precision dance, synchronized routines, and eye-high kicks. But for the first 63 years, that famous line failed to reflect the diversity of the audiences watching them, and the demographics of America herself. In 1987, that history changed forever when professional dancer Jennifer Jones was hired as the very first African American Rockette, making her unforgettable debut on television screens across the nation during the 1988 Super Bowl XXII halftime show!In this episode, Sharon and Susan sit down with this groundbreaking icon to talk about what it was really like to break through a decades-old institutional barrier at just 20 years old. Jennifer shares the stage with us to discuss her incredible 15-year tenure on the line, her full-circle Tony Award-winning run on Broadway in 42nd Street, and her deeply personal, triumphant battle surviving Stage III colorectal cancer with that signature Rockette resilience.🗣️ THE CONVERSATIONSTEPPING ONTO THE FIELD AT SUPER BOWL XXII: Overcoming intense nerves in a massive football stadium, learning complex precision terminology on the fly, and feeling the ultimate validation that she was exactly where she was supposed to be.NAVIGATING INSTITUTIONAL RESISTANCE: Dealing with antiquated industry mindsets regarding "uniformity," handling behind-the-scenes pushback from PR and management, and the crucial, historic knock on the door from the NAACP that forced Radio City to change.THE ART OF PRECISION DANCE: Moving your limbs "through peanut butter" to seamlessly look like a single dancer, and how the mental discipline of a professional athlete shapes a lifetime of character.FROM THE WIZ TO THE TONY AWARDS: How seeing vital Black representation on stage as a child inspired her dreams, and her breathtaking full-circle moment performing at the Tony Awards inside Radio City Music Hall.THE RHYTHM OF RESILIENCE: Her sudden diagnosis with Stage III colorectal cancer at age 50, learning to fiercely advocate for her own health when doctors brushed her symptoms aside, and her vital mission to spread awareness about early cancer screenings.📦 AUDIOOGRAHY - WHERE TO FIND JENNIFER'S WORKOfficial Website & Socials: Connect with Jennifer at theofficialjenniferjones.com or on Instagram and Facebook.com/RocketteJenn.The Books: Grab your copy of her powerful memoir, Becoming Spectacular: The Rhythm of Resilience from the First African American Rockette, or her beautiful children’s book, On the Line, online via HarperCollins and Bookshop.org or at your local bookstore.The Dancing Jen Doll! Check out the beautiful "Christmas Spectacular Dancing Jen" doll designed to accompany her children's book, available now at Walmart Marketplace.🩺 HEALTH RESOURCES & VITAL ADVOCACYGet Screened Early: Colon cancer is being diagnosed in younger adults more than ever before. The routine screening age has officially dropped from 50 to 45. Listen to your body, advocate for your health, and learn more at coloncancercoalition.orgYour Vote is Your Voice: Don't let your voice be silenced. Head over to Vote.org to check your registration status or register to vote today.📻 CONNECT WITH 80s TV LADIESSupport Us on Patreon: Want to see videos of our incredible interviews? Join our Patreon community for exclusive video drops, special merch, and behind-the-scenes extras!Rate and Review: If the 80s TV Ladies bring you joy and laughter, please subscribe and leave us a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts to help other amazing ladies of the 21st century find the show!Visit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

Join hosts Susan Lambert Hatem and Sharon Johnson on 80s TV Ladies, where they chat with Jim Colucci, TV writer, author, and entertainment journalist, known for his deep dive into the cultural impact of the Golden Girls. In this episode, Jim discusses his unauthorized retrospective book, 'Golden Girls Forever,' sharing behind-the-scenes stories and the show's lasting cultural influence. From interviews with Golden Girls cast members to exploring themes of diversity and acceptance in 80s television, Jim provides stories about the cast Bea Arthur, Betty White, Rue McClanahan and Estelle Getty. The conversation explores Jim's experiences writing about other iconic shows like 'All in the Family,' 'Will and Grace,' and his upcoming book on 'The Love Boat.' Get inside these legendary 80s pop culture shows with insights, laughter, and nostalgic reflections on the power of television to shape our views.Filling in for Melissa this week is Associate Producer Sailor Franklin.And we kept talking. So many more stories about Golden Girls, The Love Boat, James Lipton, Cloris Leachman and more! Get the full supersized Jim Colucci episode at Patreon.com/80sTVLadiesAUDIOOGRAPHYYou can find Jim Colucci at JimColucci.com And on Instagram.com/JimcolucciGet Jim's book Golden Girls Forever: An Unauthorized Look Behind the Lanai at Harper Books. Get the FULL 2-Hour amazing interview with Jim at Patreon.com/80sTVLadiesThe Golden Girls Streaming: Hulu, Disney+, PhiloPurchase: Apple TV, YouTube (for rent/purchase).Hulu has the documentary ​​The World According to Allee Willis. So fun!Read more about the GG 40th Anniversary celebration at ABC. Now streaming on Hulu/Disney+Watch The Golden Girls: 40 Years of Laughter and Friendship Trailer at YouTube. JOIN THE FUNDon’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review! 5-stars means a lot.Join us for more conversations with the people who shaped TV and pop culture.Visit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

In this captivating episode of 80s TV Ladies, hosts Sharon Johnson and Susan Lambert Hatem interview the legendary Cindy Fee, best known for singing the iconic theme song for 'The Golden Girls'. The conversation covers Cindy's extensive career, beginning with her professional singing at a young age, and her work with notable artists such as Kenny Rogers, Lionel Richie, and Dolly Parton.Cindy shares behind-the-scenes stories from her career in jingles, commercials, and studio work, as well as her experiences performing live. She also reflects on the enduring appeal of 'The Golden Girls', the impact of TV theme songs, and the evolution of the music industry. Cindy's anecdotes and insights offer a unique glimpse into the life of a versatile and prolific singer.00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Welcome00:32 Introducing Cindy Fee: A Musical Journey01:57 Early Beginnings in Music04:13 Moving to LA and Career Breakthroughs06:04 Recording Demos and Working with Diane Warren10:58 Family Life and Balancing Career12:57 Studio Work and Jingle Singing25:58 Golden Girls Theme Song and TV Music29:41 The Evolution of TV and Music Industry39:25 The Impact of AI on Performers39:58 The Role of Unions in Protecting Talent41:06 Misconceptions About Golden Girls Contributions41:25 Golden Girls Conventions and Fan Interactions42:53 A Career in Music and Jingles49:11 Memorable Collaborations and Advice for Singers59:20 The Emotional Connection of 'Thank You for Being a Friend'01:09:45 Future Plans and Final ThoughtsAUDIOOGRAPHYLearn more about Cindy Fee at CindyFeeSings.comFind Cindy at TikTok.com/@goldengirlfeeBe a part of Cindy Fee's new "Thank You For Being a Friend" music video. Learn more at her InstagramCheck out Golden Girls LIVE! This December in San FranciscoCOMMERCIALS:Hoover Nobody Does it Like You on YouTube.Wheaties What the Big Boys Eat on YouTube.Pontiac Ride Pontiac Ride on YouTube.The Golden Girls Streaming: Hulu, Disney+, PhiloPurchase: Apple TV, YouTube, on DVD at EbayBook Recommendation - Golden Girls Forever: An Unauthorized Look Behind the Lanai by Jim Colucci. Find it at Harper Books. Visit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

Join hosts Sharon Johnson and Susan Lambert Hatem for an exciting episode as they take an in-depth look at the legendary 90s TV show, Xena: Warrior Princess. This episode features special guests RJ Stewart, head writer and co-creator of the series, and Anna Schekel, an artist and lifelong Xena fan. The discussion covers the evolution and impact of 'Xena: Warrior Princess,' the chemistry between Lucy Lawless and Renee O'Connor, and how the series became a cult classic. RJ shares insights into the show's creation, the importance of female empowerment in TV, and his new post-apocalyptic novel 'Crazy Hawk.' Don't miss this blend of nostalgia and deep dive into one of the most beloved series of the 90s.00:02 Theme Music00:23 Audio Note and Season 4 Introduction01:02 Discussing Zena Warrior Princess03:10 Interview with Anna Scheckel05:36 Anna's Favorite Episodes and Characters08:30 Welcoming RJ Stewart11:04 RJ Stewart's Writing Journey37:31 Cult Classic Status and Conventions44:15 Discussing Creative Control and Story Arcs47:34 Hero Protection and Character Development48:17 The Impact of Female Empowerment Stories50:44 Working with Lucy Lawless and Renee O'Connor54:27 Navigating Industry Challenges and Gossip55:34 The Bond Controversy and Career Reflections58:57 Exploring Xena's Lesbian Subtext01:07:09 Memorable Moments and Industry Insights01:17:02 Final Thoughts and Future Projects01:20:47 Ad-Break01:20:49 AudioographyAUDIOOGRAPHYXena: Warrior PrincessStreaming: Amazon Prime VideoPurchase: eBayCrazy Hawk by RJ Stewart (Book)Purchase: Bookshop.org, Barnes & NobleAudiobook read by Katie Hagaman: Audible.See Susan at Rich's LIVE show for Richard Hatem's Paranormal Bookshelf - Final NY dates: Sept 24 and Sept 27! Get Tix at Eventbrite.CONNECTVisit 80sTVLadies.com for info and transcripts.Join the Facebook page discussion at Facebook.com/80sTVLadiesVisit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

“It’s not just because it’s a masterclass in comedy or because it has one of the greatest television theme songs of all time, I think it’s because it’s about friendship.”Get ready for a brand new season of 80s TV Ladies! In this special sneak peek, hosts Sharon Johnson and Susan Lambert Hatem dish out all the details on what’s coming up in Season Four.What's next for 8TL: Golden Girls, Kate & Allie, and One Day at a Time!From the iconic laughs of The Golden Girls, to the heartfelt journeys of One Day at a Time, and the long-awaited fan favorite Kate & Allie, we’re diving deep into the shows that defined a generation of women living life on their own terms. We’ll share behind-the-scenes stories, spotlight unforgettable characters, and welcome some very special guests and sidebar episodes—including a showdown between Xena and Buffy to kick things off! Plus, we’ve got tips on where to stream or find these classic series, and ways you can help support the show.AUDIOOGRAPHYThe Golden GirlsStreaming: Hulu, Disney+Purchase: Apple TV, YouTube, Walmart, eBayOne Day at a TimeStreaming: Tubi, YouTubePurchase: Shout Factory, eBayKate & AllieStreaming: The Roku ChannelPurchase: Walmart, Best Buy, eBaySo grab your bitchin’ shoulder pads and settle in—Season Four is about to bring you more joy, laughter, and fabulous TV than ever before. Don’t miss it!Guess What? We’re nominated!For TWO People’s Choice PODCAST AWARDS!: Podcastawards.comCONNECTSign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list.Support us and get ad-free episodes on PATREON. Join the Facebook page discussion at Facebook.com/80sTVLadiesDon’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review! Join us for more conversations with the people who shaped TV and pop culture.Visit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.

In this episode, hosts Susan Lambert Hatem and Sharon Johnson revisit season one, episode six of 'Scarecrow and Mrs. King,' originally launched on September 28, 2022. The rerun features actress Martha Smith, the first actress/celebrity guest on 80s TV Ladies. They dive into Smith's experiences and roles, from her motion picture debut in 'Animal House' to her portrayal of Agent Francine Desmond in 'Scarecrow and Mrs. King.' The conversation covers various topics such as acting in the 80s, the dynamics of the show, and the evolution of female-driven TV shows. Martha shares personal anecdotes about her career, her time with Playboy, on-tour adventures with Rod Stewart, and her unique character development on the show.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:26 Voting Reminder and Importance01:11 Meet the Hosts and Special Guest Introduction01:51 Martha Smith's Early Career and Animal House02:41 Behind the Scenes of Animal House07:59 Martha's Playboy Experience11:33 Transition to Acting and Early Roles19:36 Landing the Role in Scarecrow and Mrs. King39:41 Francine and Amanda's Dynamic Duo40:44 The Core Fan Base of Scarecrow and Mrs. King43:37 Behind the Scenes: Changes and Challenges46:58 Memorable Episodes and Character Development53:09 The End of an Era: Season Four and Beyond01:00:32 Reflections and Future Endeavors01:06:31 Final Thoughts and FarewellsAUDIOOGRAPHYWatch Scarecrow and Mrs. King On Tubi or On Roku.Check out ‍‍Television’s Female Spies And Crimefighters by Karen A. Romanko at Barnes and Noble.Fansite: CallMeaCab.com by Taya Johnston80s TV Ladies is nominated for TWO 2025 Podcast Awards. Check us out at PodcastAwards.com https://www.podcastawards.com If you’re a selected judge, please vote for us in Best Female Hosted Podcast and for Best TV & Film Podcast.Help us out: Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review!Have a great summer, y’all!Visit 80sTVLadies.com for more info.Listen to 80s TV Ladies at YouTube. Subscribe and help us grow.Don’t miss out. Sign up for the 80s TV Ladies mailing list!Help us make more episodes and get ad-free episodes, video interviews, and exclusive content on PATREON.