Watch This: From TAMI – Richard Pryor & Gene Wilder on Local Austin News

As we’ve mentioned before, the Texas Archive Of The Moving Image site is one of the best portals on the whole internet to disappear into for an hour or two of fascinating video. One of the best corners of the archive, for us, is the Carolyn Jackson collection. As the host of a talk show on KTBC (now Fox 7) and, later, at the station that is now KXAN 36, Jackson frequently attended press calls on the coasts or in Dallas that were set up by the film studios for publicity purposes. These junkets have produced some notoriously terrible interviews, particularly as the talent becomes more and more bored, but Jackson’s work is a cut above the usual standard. She is clearly prepared, asks smart questions at the right time, and makes a personal connection with each guest. It’s a pleasure to watch these interviews.

Here are a pair of interviews with SILVER STREAK (1976) stars Richard Pryor and Gene Wilder for a start.

First is Pryor, always candid, debunking some of the lies that appear in his official bio, and talking about his creative method as writer and performer. (WATCH >>)

Then it’s Gene Wilder’s turn. Jackson finds a great rapport with him here as they talk about the impulse to entertain. (WATCH >>)

And, if you’re wondering what has become of Jackson, here’s a piece from earlier in the year where she reminisces about some of the old days in Austin broadcasting.