Bobbie Wygant, a pioneering and renowned entertainment journalist in Dallas-Fort Worth, has passed away at age 97.
Wygant began her career in 1948 at WBAP-TV (now KXAS-TV), becoming the first person ever on television in Dallas.
Wygant said, “I was always in love with Texas. When I was a little kid I guess, movies and things, I just always knew that someday I would go to Texas.”
She previously said, “I was the first woman to host a general interest television talk show. Before that, women had to do the housekeeping things and the cooking and so forth.”
“The staff was ‘moi!’ I produced it. I did my own research,” she added.
Throughout her seven decades at NBC 5 DFW, she interviewed countless celebrities and covered entertainment news, gaining respect for her longevity and contributions.
Wygant hosted one of the first live television talk shows in the US and was a multifaceted producer and host.
She interviewed major stars from Bob Hope to the Beatles to Bradley Cooper.
NBC 5 DFW reported, “In November 1963, Wygant was on the air with her popular midday show when news of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy came into the newsroom, interrupting her program several times. A few months later, during their debut tour of the US, she interviewed the Beatles.”
Wygant received several honors for her over 50 years in broadcasting and contributions to women in the industry.
“Throughout her career, Bobbie was honored with several recognitions and awards, including being inducted into the Gold Circle of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences marking her 50 years of contributions to television broadcasting and she was honored with a Gracie Award, an award that honors the achievement and programming of and by women. The award is named after Gracie Allen, wife of George Burns, whom she interviewed many times,” the outlet continued.
Even in retirement, she remained active as a freelance reporter well into her 90s, remaining passionate about her career and storytelling.
Wygant left a profound mark as a pioneering figure and beloved figure in Dallas-Fort Worth television.
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