Cover Story

One of "Today's" Best Bets By John Finlayson
Detroit News Amusement Editor
April 1960

The ability to be bright, cheerful and unruffled, even under circumstances that are sometimes trying - like driving a midget auto racer or sparring with a kangaroo - is just one of several requirements Florence Henderson (on today's cover) has to meet as first lady of Dave Garroway's "Today" show on NBC-TV daily from 7 to 9 a.m.

Successor to Betsy Palmer on a morning show, most of which is taped the afternoon before, Miss Henderson finds the change of pace and the unexpected situations she often is involved in an invigorating way to earn a television living.

Nor does she lose her zest for the unexpected when she makes one of her frequent visits to the Jack Paar late show, as she did recently on Jack's "comeback" clambake. On that occasion, she inspired some pretty strenuous comedy rough-housing with the irrepressible Charlie Weaver.

Miss Henderson credits her versatility to extensive experience as singer and actress on the Broadway stage. A walk-on part in the musical "Wish You Were Here," led to the starring role in the long-run musical hit, "Fanny," opposite Walter Slezak and the late Ezio Pinza. Leads in touring shows, nightclub appearances and work as a concert soloist, plus an extrovert's sense of timing, have given her the confidence and know-how so essential to the success of the "Today" show.

Miss Henderson is married to show manager Ira Bernstein. They have one child, Barbara Ellen, 3. A second child is expected late this summer.

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