Thanks for Tuning In

When the Arizona Historical Society created its hall of fame, the first inductees included Barry Goldwater, Sandra Day O'Conner and a kids' show host dressed in a derby named "Wallace." To longtime Arizonans it made perfect sense. Bill "Wallace" Thompson created "The Wallace and Ladmo Show." It ran for 35 years making it among the longest-running shows in broadcast history. Its irreverent humor made it beloved by three generations of Arizonans. Thompson, the scion of a wealthy family in upstate New York decided to reinvent himself out West. Thompson's relatives found fortune discovering copper in the ground of Arizona. "Thanks for Tuning In" tells how Thompson came back to claim the airwaves.

While telling, for the first time, Thompson's own story, the book reveals new behind-the-scenes accounts of the beloved show. How Gerald, the show's resident villain, was inspired by both Thompson's privileged childhood and his love of professional wrestling. How the show took a toll on Thompson's personal life. And, it chronicles the truth behind the end of the show, and the deterioration and reconciliation of Wallace's friendship with his partner Ladmo. For those who didn't grow up with Wallace and Ladmo, it's a chance to see what all the fuss is about. For fans, it's an illuminating glimpse into the person who greeted them on television every day. Consider it a "thanks" for tuning in.