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Broadcasting Pioneer Pip Wedge Dies at 97
21 Apr
Summary
- Pip Wedge, a pioneer in British and Canadian TV, died at 97.
- He began his career in London advertising and the UK Navy.
- Wedge played a key role in launching commercial TV in the UK and Canada.
Pip Wedge, a visionary broadcast pioneer, passed away peacefully on April 15 at the age of 97. Born in London in 1928, Wedge's early career saw him serve as a telegraph operator in the UK Navy and work in advertising. His journey into broadcasting began with concert reviews for Musical Express in the early 1950s.
Wedge was instrumental in the launch of Associated-Rediffusion, a commercial TV station in Britain, where he helped establish the music department and produced early quiz shows. Seeking new challenges, he moved to Canada in 1962, producing pilots for 'Double Your Money' before joining CTV Television Network.
At CTV, Wedge rose to director of development, contributing significantly to Canadian variety and daytime programming, including Petula Clark specials and early 'W5' seasons. He also managed the acquisition of foreign programming. After retiring in 1994, Wedge continued consultancy work and was inducted into the CAB Broadcast Hall of Fame in 2006.
His wife, Lis Wedge, confirmed his passing, stating, "After nearly 61 years of marriage, I am missing him tremendously."
