Jane Wagner "J.T."
The creative genius behind an unstoppable team
“J.T. is an exquisite film, a shattering experience, written with great compassion and understanding by Miss Wagner. There shone forth a spiritual beauty which lit up the television screen. Jane Wagner’s original, hour long play must be ranked among television’s truly fine dramas.
– Los Angeles, LA Times, Dec. 12, 1969
First aired in 1969, J.T. is a television show that leaves an unforgettable impression on anyone fortunate enough to have seen it. Based on the book by Jane Wagner, the story follows J.T. Gamble, a young boy navigating life in Harlem.
Originally produced for CBS’s Saturday morning Children’s Hour, J.T. quickly won the hearts of viewers across America. Its popularity led to a primetime broadcast, where it earned widespread acclaim, including the prestigious Peabody Award for Jane Wagner.
Fun Fact
Jane Wagner made her writing debut with the highly acclaimed CBS teleplay entitled J.T in 1969. She won the coveted Peabody Award for the special. Her book of the same title was published in both soft and hardcover editions. It was J.T. that brought Jane to the attention of Lily, who was seeking the help of a writer for her television character, the precocious Edith Ann.
The Story
A troubled boy living in the ghetto finds a sense of purpose and connection through a sickly cat he cares for in an abandoned building. As Christmas approaches, J.T.’s transistor radio is stolen, and he is chased by bullies, only to witness the devastating moment when his beloved cat is hit by a car. Heartbroken, J.T. is comforted by his visiting grandmother. On Christmas Day, his life takes a hopeful turn when the neighborhood grocer gifts him a kitten, giving J.T. a second chance at building a special, nurturing bond to help him endure a world that often feels harsh and unforgiving.
Watch 'J.T.' by Jane Wagner
Written by: Jane Wagner
Directed by: Robert M. Young
Stars: Kevin Hooks, Ja’net DuBois, Theresa Merritt