Is the pilot episode Public Domain?

[Frank Gannucci]

I am asking because it was made in the 50s yet it didn’t air and was lost until 1990. Wouldn’t surprise me.

[stevea]

This site documents, or alleges, that the sole copy was recovered from the widow of an actor in the series and aired on 4/30/1990. The beginning was restored for DVD/VHS in 2002. That version would be copyrighted on that DVD or tape.

So if this site is correct, the only versions in existence now that could be public domain would be any version taped on VHS from a CBS station in 1990.

https://ilovelucyandricky.fandom.com...(Unaired_Pilot)

[Frank Gannucci]

Ok thank you.

[RWCTV]

Originally Posted by Frank Gannucci

I am asking because it was made in the 50s yet it didn’t air and was lost until 1990. Wouldn’t surprise me.

Desi Arnaz never had the episode copyrighted. There was no reason or purpose in doing so. Why? Because it was never intended to be seen by the general public. Desi Arnaz had it produced to sell the show to a number of sponsors. Sponsors were any program's life blood and extremely critical in the success and duration of every show in its original run. In fact, when the pilot was being viewed to potential sponsors, there was no response for a while. Finally, Philip Morris Tobacco signed on to sponsor the show later in the game. Once the sponsor was secure, the air time was purchased, and all their ducks were placed in a row, the pilot became a souvenir, which was given to Pepito Perez as a keepsake. Anything regarding ownership and rights to the shows, would not be negotiated until the series was put to film.