"I Love Lucy" Director Honored By NATAS

The Desert Sun reported that "I Love Lucy" Director, William Asher, was honored by the Pacific Southwest Chapter of The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) for his extensive work in television.

The honor was received last Sunday at a luncheon held at Rancho Las Palmas Resort in Rancho Mirage. Asher along with actress Kaye Ballard, marionette designer Velma Dawson, and the late writer-producer Sidney Sheldon (represented by Barbara Eden of "I Dream of Jeannie") were named Gold Circle inductees. According to The Desert Sun, only 42 people in the United States have received this prestigious honor! The Desert Sun also noted:

More than 500 people came to show their support.

Asher, famed for directing some of Lucille Ball's best comedy sketches, filled three tables with attendees.

Congratulations to Mr. Asher!

Other Lucy connections: Kaye Ballard was a cast member of "The Mothers-In-Law," the 1967-1969 sitcom directed by Desi Arnaz. Barbara Eden appeared as Diana Jordan in the last season of "I Love Lucy"

Related Blog Entries and Links:
"I Love Lucy" Director To Be Honored (Nov. 28, 2006)
William Asher - The Man Who Invented the Sitcom
A Visit With William Asher
William Asher's Filmography
Ashmont - Elizabeth Montgomery's marriage to William Asher
Bewitched @ Harpies Bizarre