American Film Institute Salute
In 1920 William Wyler left his native Germany for America, became a movie publicist, then prop-man, script clerk and cutter's assistant, before being promoted to director. He became one of Hollywood's most respected movie-makers, winning three Oscars during his 50-year career.
The American Film Institute in 1976 presented him with the Life Achievement Award - only the second director to receive it.
With Gregory Peck as host, highlights from this star-studded occasion include contributions from Henry Fonda , Greer Garson , Walter Pidgeon , Merle Oberon , Charlton Heston , Audrey Hepburn , James Stewart and Barbra Strei sand-plus extracts from many of his films, several of which will be shown during the next fortnight.
Directed by STAN HARRIS Presented for BBCtv by BARRY BROWN