The Orson Welles Show Poster

The Orson Welles Show 1979

★ 6.01 votes74 min📅 1979-02-01

Dive into the intriguing world of *The Orson Welles Show (1979)*, a rare and unfinished television pilot that offers a fascinating glimpse into Orson Welles' creative genius.

Director: Orson Welles

Cast

Orson Welles
Orson Welles
Self
Jim Henson
Jim Henson
Self / Kermit the Frog (voice)
Frank Oz
Frank Oz
Self / Fozzie Bear / Animal / Sam Eagle (voice)
Dave Goelz
Dave Goelz
Gonzo (voice)
Angie Dickinson
Angie Dickinson
Self
Joseph McBride
Joseph McBride
Member of Studio Audience
Burt Reynolds
Burt Reynolds
Self
Shawn Stevens
Shawn Stevens
Self
Allen Bracken
Robert the Assistant
Bob Greenberg
Gypsy Clarinetist

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Orson Welles Show (1979) about?

This unsold TV pilot follows Orson Welles as he hosts a talk show blending live interviews, audience interaction, and staged performances. Shot between 1978 and 1979 but never broadcast, it offers a raw, experimental snapshot of late-70s entertainment.

Who directed The Orson Welles Show?

The film was directed by Orson Welles, the iconic filmmaker behind *Citizen Kane* and *Touch of Evil*, showcasing his multifaceted talents as both host and creator.

Who stars in The Orson Welles Show?

The pilot features Orson Welles alongside Jim Henson, Frank Oz, Dave Goelz, Angie Dickinson, and Joseph McBride, creating a mix of behind-the-scenes and on-screen talent.

Is The Orson Welles Show (1979) worth watching?

While not a traditional film, this pilot is a fascinating watch for Welles enthusiasts and documentary fans. Its rarity and glimpse into his creative process make it a compelling historical artifact, even if it never reached an audience.

How long is The Orson Welles Show?

The Orson Welles Show has a runtime of 74 minutes.

About The Orson Welles Show (1979) — Orson Welles' Unfinished TV Pilot Explored

Dive into the intriguing world of *The Orson Welles Show (1979)*, a rare and unfinished television pilot that offers a fascinating glimpse into Orson Welles' creative genius. Hosted by the legendary filmmaker himself, this unsold talk-show pilot blends candid interviews, playful audience engagement, and mesmerizing magic segments—all captured between 1978 and 1979. While never aired, the project reflects Welles' unfiltered vision, mixing documentary-style authenticity with theatrical flair. Starring Welles alongside legendary puppeteers Jim Henson and Frank Oz, the film captures a moment in time where television met the avant-garde.

This behind-the-scenes artifact is a must-watch for cinephiles and Welles fans, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and innovation. The atmosphere crackles with the energy of a live performance, where spontaneity and artistry collide. Though it never found its audience, *The Orson Welles Show* remains a compelling study of a master showman testing the boundaries of television before it became a staple of home entertainment.