On October 9, the 75th Annual Technology & Engineering Emmys ceremony took place at the Prince George Ballroom in New York City. Among honored company, recognized for inventions “that are so innovative in nature that they materially have affected television,” John Lamb and Bruce Lyon received Emmys for the Lyon Lamb Video Animation System (VAS).
Released in 1976, the Video Animation System immediately disrupted the animation production process, saving massive amounts of cost and time in the formerly labor intensive pencil test process.
“In 2023, I was pleasantly surprised to receive the National Academy’s request for us to make the case for the VAS’ impact on television,” Lamb said. “My brother Jack’s research uncovered some astounding data. Collaborating with Gary Morse, who worked for Lyon Lamb’s primary partner, GYYR Odetics, Jack put together compelling evidence that the National Academy seemed to agree with,” said Lamb. “Namely, we were able to show that the number of animated TV shows in the US nearly doubled from 1976 to 1980. The evidence shows, this was the result of the introduction of the Video Animation System.”
“I am so humbled,” said Lamb. “it’s amazing to get this recognition nearly 45 years later.”
John Lamb proudly showing his Emmy, at the 75th Annual Technology & Engineering Emmys ceremony.
