Television has the remarkable ability to transport us into captivating worlds of laughter, drama, and adventure. It has woven stories into our lives, creating moments that have become etched in our memories. For any TV lover, the opportunity to own a piece of their favorite shows is nothing short of a dream come true. Thanks to the visionary curator James Comisar, now you can. Comisar, the mastermind behind the Comisar Collection, is now giving fans and collectors the chance to acquire nearly 1,000 items from his extensive personal collection of television memorabilia. From the golden era of the 1950s to the present day, this auction offers a unique opportunity to bring these beloved artifacts home.
Imaged by Heritage Auctions, HA.com
Preserving Television History: From Trash to Treasure
James Comisar's love affair with television memorabilia began in the early 1990s when he worked as a young television writer on various studio lots. Recognizing the historical significance of these objects and the threat of their disappearance, Comisar embarked on a mission to salvage these treasures from the depths of oblivion. His collection grew steadily over the years, encompassing a diverse array of items, not just from shows he adored but also those whose legacies were on the verge of being lost forever. Today, his archive stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication.
Within the depths of the Comisar Collection, one can discover an awe-inspiring array of iconic pieces. From Adam West and Burt Ward's iconic Batman and Robin costumes from the beloved 1966 series "Batman" to Pamela Anderson's sizzling C.J. Parker swimsuit from "Baywatch," every artifact tells a story. Step into Carroll O'Connor's shoes with the well-worn furniture that once occupied Archie Bunker's world on "All in the Family." And yes, you can even relive the camaraderie at the bar from "Cheers" with the actual bar used on-screen. The collection spans generations, encompassing treasures from classic shows like "Howdy Doody" and "Daniel Boone" to modern favorites like "Breaking Bad" and "American Idol." Now, with the collaboration of Heritage Auctions, James Comisar is offering these extraordinary pieces to the world.
Unlocking the Vault: Behind the Auction
Variety recently had the opportunity to speak with James Comisar about the motivations behind this monumental auction and the meticulous process of preparing these artifacts for sale. Comisar shared that the initial intention was to establish a public space to house his private archive and similar collections, providing a sanctuary to celebrate the art of television storytelling. However, the financial demands of creating a museum proved insurmountable. Despite the irony of studios often supporting such endeavors, convincing them to view these items as treasures rather than trash presented an uphill battle.
Comisar recognized the need to preserve the important TV shows of our time, whether or not they personally resonated with him. And, the decision to auction the collection was born out of a desire to ensure these significant artifacts found new homes where they would be cherished. The collection's purpose had shifted, and it is time to bid farewell to its pieces.
Curating a Unique Auction Experience
To orchestrate the auction, James Comisar turned to Heritage Auctions in Dallas, the world's premier collectibles auction company. Sharing a deep understanding of the collector's mindset, they embarked on the monumental task of curating a three-day auction. Their goal was to strike a balance between offering access to a wide range of collectors and ensuring the preservation of these cultural artifacts. With this intention in mind, the majority of the pieces were made accessible to regular collectors rather than being reserved solely for billionaires.
The selection process considered various factors, including the spatial requirements of each artifact. This consideration led to the inclusion of iconic sets such as the "All in the Family" living room and Johnny Carson's "Tonight Show" set. The mission to honor television history was always at the forefront of their minds. As a result, a significant portion of James Comisar's collection is now available for auction, including some of the most iconic and valuable pieces ever to grace the market. Each lot provides transparency regarding its origin, offering collectors peace of mind.
Embarking on an Unforgettable Journey
When asked to highlight items he was particularly excited to offer, Comisar revealed that every piece held a special place in his heart. Each artifact served as a nostalgic time capsule, representing a unique connection to a specific age demographic. Whether it was the iconic "Cheers" bar that resonated with some or the beloved "Beverly Hills 90210" Peach Pit that held memories for others, the auction offers something for everyone. Surprisingly, the starting bids for over 90 percent of the items begin at a mere dollar, providing an opportunity for anyone to claim their cherished memento.
While this may not be James Comisar's first foray into selling rare and prized collectibles, it is undoubtedly the most remarkable. The auction features his super AAA-list pieces, including the legendary "All in the Family" living room chairs, which hold an irreplaceable place in television history. As he opens the vault to the public, Comisar can't help but experience a mix of emotions. Nostalgia intertwines with regret, prompting fleeting desires to reclaim certain items. However, this momentous clearinghouse marks the end of an era for Comisar as a collector.
A Future of Compassion and Dignity
As the final gavel falls and the auction concludes, James Comisar envisions a new chapter in his life. While he will continue to represent the interests of significant buyers worldwide, his personal collecting journey has reached its conclusion. Instead, Comisar, along with his wife and daughter, is committed to rescuing and caring for senior animals, providing them with a loving home during the twilight of their lives. This endeavor aligns with their passion for extending compassion and comfort to those who need it most. In a way, it mirrors the act of saving and collecting, albeit in a different form. The years spent gathering and preserving these remarkable artifacts have been truly rewarding for Comisar. Despite occasional doubts along the way, the auction and the profound interest it has generated confirm the resounding answer to his question: "Does anybody care about this stuff like I do?" Undoubtedly, the answer is a resounding yes.
The curtain rises, and the opportunity to own a piece of television history beckons. James Comisar's collection, once hidden away, is now unveiled for all to see and cherish. Take part in this extraordinary auction, and let these timeless treasures find a new home, where they will continue to captivate hearts and tell stories for generations to come. But you better hurry, the auction ends soon.