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Many consider him to be the precursor to Jerry Springer, Jenny Jones, Rikki Lake and the like. But Morton Downey Junior’s program was far more issues-oriented than those programs.

Born into privilege to famous singer Morton Downey and dancer Barbara Bennett he had a multitude of careers including singer, songwriter and (believe it or not) humanitarian. He also achieved earning a law degree.

His show didn’t last long but it sure made a lasting impression and paved the way for many of the “in-your-face” television talk shows to come. Airing first in New York City in 1987, it was nationally syndicated in 1988 and cancelled in 1989.

The program gave a voice to skinheads, gay-bashers and social malcontents but Downey always took issue with them, even getting in their faces and blowing smoke from his ever-present cigarette at them. One show saw Al Sharpton and Roy Innis get into a fistfight. He took over where Joe Pyne left off and has left an indelible mark.