Jim Hartz
OAB Hall of Fame
Inducted 1995

A Tulsa native, Jim Hartz graduated from the University of Tulsa and began his broadcast career at KOME radio in 1958. Stints at KRMG in news and programming, and at KOTV as a news anchor, catapulted Hartz to the 11:00 p.m. news anchor slot on WNBC-TV, New York. His 35 years experience in broadcasting include 15 years with NBC and 14 years with PBS. He was co-host with Barbara Walters of the NBC Today Show from 1974 to 1977.  He also co-hosted with actress Mary Martin on the popular PBS series, Over Easy. Hartz has been a writer, producer, director, and narrator of numerous television specials. As a network correspondent, his efforts included coverage of the Middle East war, moon flights, political conventions, elections, and the Washington scene.

Jim Hartz’s broadcasting works have been recognized with five EMMY Awards and two ACE Awards, and his PBS Innovation program has received two EMMYS. He was inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 1995.

As a television newsman and host, Jim Hartz’s warmth and friendliness bonded a relationship with his viewer. His relaxed manner of presentation exuded intelligence and confidence in his subject matter. To some, talent seems to come easily. They are called “Naturals.”

Jim Hartz: ”The Natural.”