In “The Rise and Fall of Desilu,” The Wall Street Journal reviewed CCLP Senior Fellow Todd Purdum’s new book, “Desi Arnaz: The Man Who Invented Television,” which is about Ricky Ricardo-playing actor Desi Arnaz and his immigrant upbringing, tumultuous relationship with Lucille Ball, and visionary career in television production. Seen in the May 24 print edition, the review commended Purdum for telling “this classic rise-and-fall story with an élan his subject would appreciate.” The full review can be read here.
On May 29, the Los Angeles Times reviewed Purdum’s book, calling it a “poignant” biography that presented “a nuanced portrait of both Arnaz’s gifts and his tragic shortcomings.” Read the full review here.
“Desi Arnaz: The Man Who Invented Television” is available for pre-order and will be released on June 3, 2025.
