From its inception until 1959, the show ran on CBS . It went on hiatus until it was picked up by NBC in 1962, and then ran uninterrupted until 1971.
When the show first started, it was tailored to Andy Williams's Pop Music stylings, with " Adult Contemporary " style musicians. But in 1969 it was restaged, bringing in Rock And Roll acts and Psychedelic staging. The audience sat on risers which moved around the stage, following Williams about as he moved.
Starting in 1971, Williams opted instead to produce seasonal specials (especially at Christmas ) in lieu of a weekly series.
One recurring comedy sketch on the show involved Williams' encounters with "The Bear," a tall, comical animal whose escapades would frustrate Williams to the point of his shouting at him, with increasing high pitch, that he didn't want to see him again, "Not Now--Not Ever--NEVER!!" This send-off, which became a popularly-used phrase at that time, was funny due to its contrast with the suave performing demeanor Williams was known for.
