Dec. 31, 1963 - ABC has finalized plans for extensive changes in its current television schedule. At least four shows will be dropped during the first quarter of the year, and the future of two others is in doubt. Shows to be canceled are “77 Sunset Strip” (pictured), “Channing,” “The Sid Caesar Show,” and “The Edie Adams Show.” Those whose runs might be curtailed are “The Jimmy Dean Show” and “The Travels of Jaimie McPheeters.” The final telecast of “77 Sunset Strip,” the private detective series, will be on Feb. 7. On Friday, Feb. 14, it will be succeeded by “Destry,” a Western starring John Gavin. “Channing,” a drama series about a college professor, will not be renewed beyond its initial 26-week commitment. Its replacement has not been selected. The shows starring Mr. Caesar and Miss Adams will complete their runs in late March. The future of “The Jimmy Dean Show” beyond the middle of March has not been determined. The show encountered low ratings in the beginning but has improved in recent weeks. ABC has already decided to schedule reruns of “Ensign O’Toole” on Thursdays from 9 to 9:30 p.m. beginning in late March. The filmed comedy series was televised last season by NBC. “Empire,” a Western that also was formerly on NBC, will be repeated by ABC on Thursdays from 9:30 to 10:30 p.m.
