Don Mischer is a renowned director and producer with a career that spans over six decades. Throughout his career, he has had the opportunity to work with some of the biggest names in entertainment, including Prince, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Muhammad Ali, and Taylor Swift, among many others. Now, he is taking his memories and experiences and putting them on paper in his memoir, “:10 Seconds to Air: My Life in the Director’s Chair.”
Set to be published on November 14th by Unnamed Press and Rare Bird, Mischer’s memoir will take readers on a journey from his humble beginnings in Texas to his groundbreaking work directing and producing Oscar and Emmy telecasts, Super Bowl halftime shows, and a wide range of TV specials. One of the most notable events he directed was the iconic 1983 “Motown 25” special, where Michael Jackson introduced the world to his legendary moonwalk. Additionally, the memoir will delve into Mischer’s role in directing the historic inauguration of Barack Obama as president.
Mischer’s journey into the world of television began during his time as a student at the University of Texas at Austin in 1963. It was a time of great turmoil, as President John F. Kennedy was tragically assassinated in Dallas. As reporters flooded into Austin to gather information about Lyndon B. Johnson, who succeeded Kennedy, Mischer found himself helping them with their coverage. Witnessing the power of television and how it affected people’s lives, he knew that he wanted to pursue a career in the medium.
This decision would lead him to direct over 100 TV productions, earning him numerous accolades along the way. Mischer has received 13 Primetime Emmy Awards and two Daytime Emmys for his exceptional work. In addition, he has been honored with a lifetime achievement award from the Directors Guild of America, a prestigious Peabody Award for his work on the “Motown 25” special, and the esteemed Norman Lear Achievement Award from the Producers Guild of America, among many other notable recognitions.
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Through the pages of his memoir, Mischer will take readers behind the scenes of some of the most iconic events in entertainment history. From capturing Prince’s electrifying performances to showcasing the brilliance of Mikhail Baryshnikov on stage, he provides an intimate look at the creative process and the challenges he faced as a director and producer. Each chapter in the book will unveil new stories and insights into the world of television and the celebrities he had the pleasure of working with.
However, Mischer’s memoir is not just a collection of anecdotes about the glamorous and star-studded world of entertainment. It is a reflection on the power of television and its ability to shape and impact society. Throughout his career, he witnessed firsthand the influence that television coverage had on people’s lives, from the emotional impact of news broadcasts to the cultural significance of music specials. Mischer’s memoir will highlight the profound impact that television has had on our collective consciousness and how it has become an integral part of our lives.
As readers delve into “:10 Seconds to Air: My Life in the Director’s Chair,” they will not only gain insights into Mischer’s personal journey but also a deeper understanding of the art of directing and producing television. Through his storytelling, Mischer invites readers to experience the excitement, pressure, and creative brilliance that goes into bringing iconic moments to life on screen.
With his memoir, Mischer cements his place as one of the most influential directors and producers in television history. His unwavering passion for his craft and his ability to create unforgettable moments have left an indelible mark on the industry. “:10 Seconds to Air: My Life in the Director’s Chair” is a book that will captivate and inspire anyone with a love for television, entertainment, and the power of storytelling.
