Breaking into Hollywood has always been a challenge, and during the 1940s, it was even tougher. Imagine trying to make it big when the only way to get noticed was by knocking on doors—literally. That’s exactly what Betty White did in her early days. "I was so green that I didn’t even know which doors to knock on," Betty once admitted. But perseverance paid off. In 1948, Betty landed one of four spots as a live caller on Grab Your Phone, a local LA quiz show on KLAC-TV. This was no ordinary job; it was more like a mini-telethon. Betty stood out from the crowd by cracking jokes with the host. At a time when humor from women was seen as unconventional, Betty didn’t care. "It’s so much more fun to get the laugh," she said with a smile.
From Quiz Shows to Daytime Television
Betty’s charm and quick wit didn’t go unnoticed. Al Jarvis, a prominent LA radio personality, was planning his own daytime television show and saw potential in Betty. He offered her the role of "Gal Monday to Friday" on Hollywood on Television. This wasn’t just any gig—it was a five-and-a-half-hour live broadcast every weekday. With no script, Betty had to keep viewers engaged with gossip, current events, impromptu jokes, skits, and even live commercials. For her hard work, she earned $50 a week. Sounds like a dream job, right? But for Betty, it was the start of something incredible.
Betty (far left) on Hollywood on Television in 1952. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)
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Success and Recognition
After premiering in November 1949, Hollywood on Television became a massive hit. KLAC-TV added a Saturday broadcast, and Al Jarvis showed his appreciation by increasing Betty’s salary to $300 a week. Al was more than just a boss; he was a mentor who helped Betty refine her warm, inviting personality. Betty stayed with the show for four years and eventually took over as host, becoming America’s first female daytime talk show presenter. In 1951, she launched her own Sunday night show, The Betty White Show. It was a platform for her to connect with viewers, read their letters, and even sing a few songs. Her dog Bandit often joined her on set, becoming a beloved part of the show.
Creating Her Own Legacy
Betty’s partnership with Al Jarvis continued until 1951, during which they hosted a televised talent competition. Together, they developed the characters of Elizabeth and Alvin, which led to the creation of Life With Elizabeth in 1952. This half-hour series featured three slice-of-life sketches and earned Betty a regional Emmy for most outstanding female personality on television. "That lovely little statue is a genuine thrill that never goes away," Betty admitted. But success isn’t always smooth sailing. Hollywood on Television ended in 1953, and by late 1955, Life With Elizabeth wrapped up after 65 episodes. NBC’s The Betty White Show also faced challenges, eventually being canceled in 1956. "I was convinced it was the end of the world," Betty recalled.
Fantasy and Reality on ABC
In 1957, Betty joined ABC for Date With the Angels, a series following the fantasy lives of a married couple. While initially fun, network sponsors grew wary of the fantasy segments, leading the show to become just another domestic comedy. "We were barely surviving, and the fun was gone," Betty said. By this point, she wanted out. But Betty wasn’t done yet. She created The Betty White Show (No. 3!), featuring three unrelated sketches with guest stars like Buster Keaton and Boris Karloff. "They were wonderful and entered into our nonsense wholeheartedly," she said. As her contract ended in 1958, Betty found herself at a crossroads once more.
