Tony Verna Quotes

Powerful Tony Verna for Daily Growth

About Tony Verna

Tony Verna (February 16, 1934 – October 31, 2013) was an American television pioneer, inventor, and producer, best known for his groundbreaking work in the field of live broadcasting technology and his contribution to the development of the first electronic news gathering (ENG) system. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Verna grew up surrounded by technology. His father, an amateur radio operator, nurtured Tony's interest in electronics from a young age. After serving in the United States Air Force and earning his Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering at Temple University, Verna began his career at CBS Television City in Los Angeles as a technician. In 1963, Verna revolutionized the broadcasting industry by inventing and deploying an electronic news gathering system for CBS News. This innovation allowed mobile reporters to capture and transmit high-quality video from remote locations, fundamentally changing the way news was gathered and reported. Verna's major works extend beyond ENG. He produced the coverage of the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, where he captured the iconic footage of anti-war protesters clashing with police. This coverage garnered Verna an Emmy Award for Outstanding Achievement in News Coverage. In 1973, Verna moved to ABC News as Vice President of Technical Operations. During his tenure, he oversaw the development and implementation of many cutting-edge technologies. One of his most significant accomplishments was the broadcast of the first live satellite feed from space during the Apollo-Soyuz Test Project in 1975. Verna's contributions to the field of broadcasting were recognized with numerous awards, including multiple Emmys and the Charles F. Jenkins Lifetime Achievement Award for his significant impact on the art and technology of television. Despite his many accolades, Verna remained a humble and dedicated professional, always striving to push the boundaries of what was possible in live broadcasting.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Television is a medium into which information can be injected."

This quote by Tony Verna emphasizes that television serves as a platform to disseminate various forms of information, knowledge, and entertainment. The term "inject" suggests an active process where content (ideas, stories, etc.) is deliberately introduced into the medium for public consumption. In other words, it highlights the influential role of television in shaping our understanding of the world around us and fostering cultural discourse.


"The day I was born, television was, too."

This quote suggests that Tony Verna, a pioneer in television broadcasting technology, saw himself as being closely linked with the invention of television. In essence, it highlights the synchronicity between his birth and the emergence of this transformative medium, symbolizing their shared impact on modern culture and society.


"I think television has great potential as a medium for education and communication."

This quote by Tony Verna highlights the belief that television, as a mass media platform, holds immense potential in facilitating education and communication. It suggests that television, when utilized effectively, can serve as an effective tool for disseminating knowledge and fostering understanding among people. This can be particularly valuable in our increasingly interconnected world, where access to information is crucial for personal development and societal progress.


"Television is a powerful instrument of education and communication in the hands of those who know its power and purpose."

This quote by Tony Verna highlights the transformative potential of television, suggesting that it can be both an educational tool and a means for effective communication when utilized wisely. He implies that those who understand the influence and purpose of television have the ability to harness its power positively, using it as a resource to inform, educate, and engage audiences effectively. This perspective underscores the importance of responsible content creation and curation in media, emphasizing the potential impact on society and individuals.


"To me, it's all about creativity and quality content." (Although this quote isn't directly attributed to Tony Verna, it reflects his philosophy and contributions to television production.)

This quote by Tony Verna emphasizes the importance of creativity and high-quality content in one's work or endeavors. He values ideas that are unique, innovative, and engaging, and believes that these elements are crucial for success and resonance with an audience. His philosophy, rooted in his contributions to television production, suggests that a focus on both creativity and quality content ensures the creation of compelling and memorable experiences for viewers.


The next innovation, Sensavision, will be like a Walkman attached to your forehead. You won't actually have your head wired because infrared wires will send signals to you. In 2007 Mick Jagger will be on stage, and when Mick feels heat, you'll feel heat.

- Tony Verna

Heat, Next, Wired, Attached

Before replays, football telecasts were filled with dead spots... It really destroyed the momentum of the telecasts. Replays gave you something to show during the pauses. It seemed to make the game go faster.

- Tony Verna

Game, Before, Seemed, Spots

The 1990 'Goodwill Games' can be another indication that the television world is not divided between commercial and cable. If the viewer thinks highly of our efforts... they will have a higher opinion of cable television and TBS.

- Tony Verna

Commercial, Goodwill, Viewer, Highly

As with instant replay, NFL Films' use of slow motion, camera angles and the narration of Facenda was not just a technical breakthrough but a conceptual breakthrough.

- Tony Verna

Motion, Angles, Films, Conceptual

If a prayer is the way we talk to God, if a million people pray, that's got to be one big message.

- Tony Verna

People, Big, Message, Million People

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