The George Jessel Show is a 30-minute television variety program that was broadcast live from New York.
The show used a celebrity roast format, with Jessel drawing on his self-proclaimed "Toastmaster General of the United States" status to give provide a humorous treatment of each week's guest.
The suit alleged that some local stations pre-empted the program, diminishing the reach of the pen company's advertising.
[6] A review in the November 30, 1953, issue of the trade publication Broadcasting panned The George Jessel Show, calling it "As sad a variety program as has passed before the discerning eye of a tv [sic] camera ..."[7] The reviewer held Jessel himself responsible for "this shabby excuse for entertainment.
"[7] After complimenting the quality of guest performers and production personnel, the reviewer noted "half-hearted applause at the end of the Jessel show" as an indication of the audience's feelings.