One of the most familiar American television figures in the medium, Hugh Downs co-anchored ABC's 20/20. In addition to his highly visible role as co-anchor, Mr. Downs went into the field to report news features for 20/20, concentrating on issues of science, medicine, children, aging, adventure, the fine arts, and family. Mr. Downs was the host of NBC's Today show for nine years. In 1957, he helped to launch NBC's famous Tonight Show. After 40 years and 10,000 broadcasting hours - more than any other broadcaster alive! - he says "it never feels like work." As one of his "retirement" activities, he is writing two books: one a handbook on life and the other a collaboration with astronomer Robert Jastrow. He has traded in the television network for the Internet, as he now provides Exbtv.com with commentary on the executive branch of the federal government. Mr. Downs also has a hand in shaping the next generation of communicators. As a lecturer at the Arizona State University Hugh Downs School of Human Communication, he shares his years of experience in television directly with students.
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