Personal Award: Burr Tillstrom, “That Was the Week That Was”

Burr Tillstrom, in his 25th year in television, found new artistry in his haunting, sensitive interpretation of the true meaning of the Berlin Wall. Burr Tillstrom’s heart and hands portrayed the depths of the Wall’s tragic separation of families and loved ones. It left an enduring mark not only on the television screen, but also on the mind of the viewer. Mr. Tillstrom’s serious achievement was part of a weekly program, That Was the Week That Was—an uneven, unsteady program that at least tried to pierce the pompous, needle the stuffed shirt, and milk the sacred cow. We need more of such efforts to enliven the airwaves. In recognition, a Peabody Award.