The first generation of American television programmers had few choices when selecting Saturday morning children's programs for local stations. That changed dramatically in 1963 when a Japanese animated television series called "Tetswuan Atom" was acquired for distribution by a division of NBC. Fred Ladd adapted the show for American television, rechristened Astro Boy, and it was an overnight sensation.

Astro Boy's popularity sparked a new industry in importing animated television to America from Japan. Ladd went on to adapt numerous Japanese animated imports for American release, and here provides an insider's view of the creation of what has blossomed into an ongoing cultural and media phenomenon.

Written by Fred Ladd & Harvey Deneroff.

*Episode #52 ,#53 & #82 - Interview with Fred Ladd, pioneering TV producer & director