Born Name:  Don Hornsby

Born Date:  December 6, 1923

Born Place:  Cooper, Texas

Died Date:  May 22, 1950

Died Place:  Eastview, New York

Occupations:  Comedian, novelty pianist

Brief Biography:  Don "Creesh" Hornsby who was tragically slated to be the first-ever host of late-night network television. A discovery of legends like Bob Hope and Fred Allen, Hornsby was known for his wild, unpredictable "surrealist" comedy style and his signature habit of shouting "Creesh!" during performances.

Early Life and Career:
Talent: He was a gifted pianist who blended technical skill with frantic physical comedy. His act often involved acrobatics, such as playing the piano while suspended by his heels or swinging on a rope.
Rising Star: By the late 1940s, he had become a breakout star in the nightclub circuit, eventually gaining national attention after appearing on Bob Hope's radio show.

The "Broadway Open House" Opportunity:
In 1950, NBC executive Pat Weaver selected Hornsby to host Broadway Open House, the network's first venture into late-night programming. The show was intended to be a loose, hour-long variety program airing five nights a week. Hornsby signed a five-year contract and moved to New York to prepare for the premiere, which was scheduled for May 1950.

Historical Footnote:
Hornsby is often remembered as the "lost" pioneer of late-night TV. His untimely death is cited by many historians, such as those at the Eyes of a Generation archive, as one of the great "what ifs" in television history.