Winner 1980

Gideon’s Trumpet

CBS Entertainment

To CBS Entertainment, a Peabody Award for Gideon’s Trumpet, a true and compelling story of a Florida convict who alters the course of legal history. Through a handwritten campaign directed at the United States Supreme Court, a landmark ruling resulted which guarantees any person accused of a crime the full benefit of competent legal counsel. Henry Fonda’s portrayal of the convict adds considerable distinction to this worthwhile drama. A Peabody Award to a program which went far beyond the realm of entertainment by being at the same time educational and inspirational.