Detroit Institute of Arts Founders Society v. Rose

RULING ON MOTIONS FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT

DRONEY, District Judge.

I. Introduction and Factual Background

“The Howdy Doody Show” was a television program beloved by millions of children now known as “the baby boom generation.” It was produced and broadcast by the National Broadcasting Company, Inc. (“NBC”) from 1947 to 1960. Hosted by Robert “Buffalo Bob” Smith, the show’s main character was Howdy Doody, a puppet in the image of a freckled-faced boy in cowboy clothing. For most of its run, the show aired every afternoon after school. In that era, television programming — especially for children —…