Who Was Mary Hart? The Entertainment Tonight Icon Then & Now

Marjory Ritchie III 25 May 2025

Ever wondered what makes a television personality a household name? In the case of Mary Hart, it was more than just a pretty face; it was a unique blend of warmth, wit, and an unparalleled dedication to entertainment news that cemented her as a titan of the industry.

Mary Hart, an emblematic figure in American television, is overwhelmingly recognized as the original guiding force behind the syndicated entertainment news juggernaut, Entertainment Tonight (ET). From the show's very genesis in 1981, Hart was at the helm, steering its course for three decades until her departure in 2011. Her presence wasn't just a formality; she became the face of ET, shaping its identity and cultivating a connection with millions of viewers who tuned in nightly for their dose of Hollywood happenings.

Born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Hart's journey to the epicenter of entertainment news began far from the bright lights of Hollywood. Her early career saw her cutting her teeth as a local news reporter in Minneapolis, a foundational experience that honed her journalistic skills and laid the groundwork for her future success. In 1979, the allure of Los Angeles beckoned, and she joined the ranks of KNBC-TV. There, she took on the role of hosting "PM Magazine," a local entertainment show that quickly gained traction and popularity within the Los Angeles viewing market. This role proved to be a pivotal stepping stone, showcasing her natural talent and setting the stage for the opportunity that would define her career. In 1981, Hart was handpicked to host Entertainment Tonight, a then-nascent syndicated entertainment news magazine. The show's trajectory was meteoric, swiftly ascending to become one of the most-watched and influential entertainment news programs on television, largely due to Hart's undeniable appeal and skill.

What set Hart apart and endeared her to audiences was her signature blend of traits. Her personality, often described as warm and friendly, created an immediate sense of connection with viewers. This affable nature was coupled with a sharp wit that kept interviews engaging and segments lively. Furthermore, her extensive knowledge of the entertainment industry lent her credibility and allowed her to provide insightful commentary on the latest news and trends. And who could forget her signature sign-off? "See you on the set, same time, same place, tomorrow night," became a familiar and comforting refrain for millions, solidifying her place in television history.

While Hart stepped away from her daily hosting duties at ET in 2011, her departure didn't signify a retreat from the entertainment world. She has continued to be active as a television host and producer, leveraging her experience and expertise to contribute to various projects. Beyond her on-screen and behind-the-scenes work, Hart has also ventured into the literary realm, authoring several books, including her autobiography, "Dancing with Life," a candid and inspiring account of her personal and professional journey.

Attribute	Details
Name	Mary Hart
Born	November 8, 1950 (Sioux Falls, South Dakota, USA)
Occupation	Television Host, Producer, Author
Education	Augustana University (Sioux Falls, SD) - Bachelor of Arts in English
Career Highlights	Host of PM Magazine (KNBC-TV, Los Angeles) Host of Entertainment Tonight (1981-2011) Guest Appearances in TV series and movies
Personal Life	Married to Burt Sugarman Two Children Breast Cancer Survivor
Philanthropic Involvement	American Cancer Society Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation Supporting education and arts initiatives
Signature Phrase	"See you on the set, same time, same place, tomorrow night."
Website	Official Website

Mary Hart's trajectory within the realm of hosting took root in the waning years of the 1970s, a period that marked her entry into the fold at KNBC-TV, situated in the bustling media landscape of Los Angeles. There, she assumed the mantle of host for "PM Magazine," a local entertainment showcase that swiftly garnered attention and ascended to become a frontrunner in its designated time slot. This initial foray into the world of entertainment broadcasting served as a crucial proving ground for Hart, honing her skills and solidifying her on-screen presence.

The year 1981 proved to be a watershed moment in Hart's career, as she was handpicked to helm Entertainment Tonight, a then-fledgling syndicated entertainment news magazine with aspirations of capturing the pulse of Hollywood. The show's subsequent ascent was nothing short of meteoric, transforming it into a cultural phenomenon and catapulting Hart to the upper echelons of television stardom. Her face became instantly recognizable, gracing magazine covers and television screens across the nation.

Hart's hosting style was a defining characteristic, setting her apart from her contemporaries and establishing a profound connection with viewers. Her demeanor was consistently described as warm and approachable, fostering a sense of familiarity and trust that resonated with audiences. Beyond her affable nature, she possessed a sharp wit that kept interviews engaging and segments lively. Moreover, she exhibited an innate ability to connect with celebrities, eliciting candid and insightful responses that provided viewers with a glimpse into the lives of the rich and famous.

While Hart bid adieu to her daily duties at ET in 2011, her departure did not signify a complete exit from the entertainment industry. She has maintained an active presence as a television host and producer, channeling her expertise and experience into a diverse array of projects. Additionally, she has expanded her creative pursuits into the realm of literature, penning several books, including her autobiography, "Dancing with Life," which offers an intimate and compelling account of her life's journey.

Born in 1950 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Mary Hart's personal life has been a tapestry of love, family, and resilience. She is happily married to television producer Burt Sugarman, a union that has brought her both personal fulfillment and professional synergy. Together, they have two children, forming a close-knit family unit that serves as a source of strength and support.

In 2009, Hart faced a significant health challenge when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. However, with unwavering determination and the support of her loved ones, she underwent successful treatment and emerged cancer-free. This personal experience has transformed her into a passionate advocate for breast cancer awareness, using her platform to educate and inspire others to prioritize their health and well-being.

Hart's commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond her personal battles. She is a dedicated philanthropist, actively involved with numerous charitable organizations, including the American Cancer Society and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Through her philanthropic endeavors, she seeks to contribute to causes that are close to her heart, demonstrating her belief in the importance of giving back to the community and supporting those in need.

Name	Born	Occupation
Mary Hart	1950	Television host and producer

Spanning over three decades, Mary Hart's career as a host has indelibly marked the entertainment industry. Her particular style, combined with commitment to conveying enthralling content, has made her a renowned figure in entertainment news.

Hosting Style: With a warm, inviting, and captivating aura, Mary Hart's style fostered a personal rapport with her audience.
Entertainment Expertise: With her in-depth awareness of the entertainment industry, Hart was able to provide perceptive commentary and exclusive interviews.
Signature Sign-Off: "See you on the set, same time, same place, tomorrow night" became an iconic expression associated with Mary Hart.
Longevity: Mary Hart's 30 year run at Entertainment Tonight speaks to her passion and her popularity.
Celebrity Rapport: Mary Hart's aptitude to establish connections with celebrities made for remarkable interviews and memorable occasions.
Philanthropy: Demonstrating her obligation to giving back, Hart's advocacy with different philanthropic endeavors, specifically awareness regarding breast cancer, shows her commitment.
Media Icon: Substantiated by her many awards and accolades, Mary Hart is undoubtedly considered a media celebrity.

In addition to entertaining audiences, Mary Hart's involvement in entertainment news has influenced and revolutionized the field. With her lasting impression as an innovator in the field, Mary Hart is surely one to admire and one who inspires aspiring journalists.

Name	Born	Occupation
Mary Hart	1950	Television host and producer

Mary Hart's distinctive hosting style stands as a cornerstone of Entertainment Tonight's enduring triumph. Her innate ability to connect with viewers stemmed from her warm, approachable, and inherently engaging personality, which allowed her to forge a genuine rapport with those who tuned in each night. This welcoming demeanor served as a beacon, drawing audiences in and creating a sense of familiarity that made them feel as though they were conversing with a trusted friend.

Creating a Comfortable Atmosphere: Hart's talent for setting up a relaxed and pleasant ambiance on the television set allowed guests to feel more at ease. Resulting in interviews that were more open and revealing.
Empathy and Understanding: She was equipped with genuine empathy and understanding, so that she could effectively connect with her guests on a more personal and more profound plane, drawing heartfelt answers. Establishing trust.
Engaging Storytelling: Hart was a master at the craft of storytelling, and so she would captivate and inform her audience, taking complex topics and making them both fun and accessible.
Authenticity and Transparency: The viewers really identified with Mary Hart's true authenticity, with her sincere, unpretentious way of presenting as a host, which truly resonated with the audience.

Mary Hart's approachable, welcoming manner contributed to the success and popularity of Entertainment Tonight, while also creating a high benchmark for standards in television journalism. Her ability to establish relationships with the audience is still an inspiration for all aspiring journalists.

Mary Hart's extensive grasp of the ins and outs of the entertainment industry was vital to the long term success of Entertainment Tonight. This expertise allowed her to provide viewers with very insightful commentary pertaining to the latest trends, industry news, while also being able to secure exclusive interviews with some of the biggest names in all of Hollywood.

Insights into Industry Trends: Having a strong understanding of the entertainment industry, Mary Hart shared valuable insights with viewers regarding the latest happenings and trends.
Exclusive Interviews with A-Listers: Hart's respect and relationships within the industry enabled her access to A-list celebrities, giving fans the chance to peek behind the curtain at the lives of the rich and famous.
Analysis of Box Office Successes and Failures: Mary Hart's knowledge also extended to box office analysis. Her insightful commentary examined what contributed to the success or failure of significant movie releases.
Coverage of Award Shows and Red Carpet Events: Hart demonstrated her knowledge by covering prestigious award shows. With her coverage, she was able to capture the excitement, the glamor of these events.

Mary Hart's level of knowledge regarding the entertainment industry did not only make Entertainment Tonight essential viewing for entertainment buffs and those within the industry, but it revolutionized the way we consume and digest entertainment news.

"See you on the set, same time, same place, tomorrow night," Mary Hart's signature sign off is inextricably linked to Entertainment Tonight. Serving as the simple, yet memorable ending for each episode, this phrase helped to create excitement for the following night.

This closing statement was a testament to Mary Hart's dedication to what she did. Her commitment to giving viewers entertainment news was clear. "See you on the set, same time, same place, tomorrow night," signified that Mary Hart would always be there to bring viewers the latest scoop, no matter what challenges she faced.

It became so popular, that Mary Hart's sign off was often parodied throughout popular culture. Eddie Murphy, a comedian from the 1980s, would sign off with a variation of Hart's signature statement, "See you next week, same bat-time, same bat-channel" on Saturday Night Live.

Mary Hart's signature phrase is still used and remembered today. It's a reminder of her commitment to her work, her dedication to her viewers, while solidifying Mary Hart's place as one of the best in entertainment journalism.

Mary Hart's 30 years with Entertainment Tonight are proof of how dedicated she was to her profession. Additionally, this shows just how well loved she was by the audience. After three decades with the show, fans were disheartened to hear of her departure in 2011.

She sustained longevity for the following reasons. To start, Mary Hart is a very talented, skilled journalist with comprehensive knowledge of the entertainment landscape. She presents the news concisely and clearly.

She has a very charismatic personality. Furthermore, she's quite likeable. With a welcoming, warm nature, Hart creates lasting connections with viewers. Her traits make her the ideal television host, specifically for a show that is all about entertainment.

Mary Hart has proven that she's a very hard worker. Moreover, she is always willing to go above and beyond what is required of her. Sustaining her popularity for thirty years is a testament to how dedicated she is to her profession.

Mary Hart's dedication, talent, and popularity enabled her to maintain a long run with Entertainment Tonight. Hart continues to set high standards for journalism, cementing herself as a true professional.

The success of Entertainment Tonight depended on Mary Hart's ability to create lasting connections with celebrities. Combined with her friendly demeanor and genuine curiosity towards guests, Hart elicited more personal, open answers in comparison to other interviewers.

There is clear evidence of this based on her many memorable, revealing interviews throughout her career. In 1986, Mary Hart managed to discuss Michael Jackson's plans for the future, his relationship with his father, and his childhood. Moreover, Mary Hart was able to have Oprah discuss her struggles with weight and self esteem in 1993.

Mary Hart's ability to develop rapport with celebrities benefited viewers by revolutionizing entertainment news. Before Hart, entertainment reporting was viewed as gossipy and superficial. However, Mary Hart's interviews indicated that celebrities were intricate individuals with unique experiences.

As an interviewer, Mary Hart's influence lives on by acting as an inspiration for journalists everywhere. Her ability to connect with those in the spotlight is a reminder that the most compelling interviews depend on respect and trust.

Mary Hart's commitment to making a change can be seen in her philanthropic work, specifically her involvement with breast cancer awareness. Supporting charitable causes has always been a priority during her career in the entertainment industry.

Being diagnosed with breast cancer has bolstered her advocacy efforts. After treatment in 2009, she has become dedicated to supporting breast cancer research and promoting awareness of the disease.

Mary Hart has been active in promoting breast cancer awareness in numerous ways. In addition to speaking at conferences, hosting fundraising events, she has used her voice and influence to underscore the importance of early detection and treatment. Furthermore, Hart actively supports the American Cancer Society, the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, and similar organizations.

Mary Hart has also committed to supporting causes, such as the arts, animal welfare, and education. She believes in giving back to her community by using her resources and her voice to make a difference in the world.

Mary Hart's accomplishments have earned her recognition and multiple awards, therefore, she's certainly more than just a media icon. Her contributions to popular culture and the entertainment industry have solidified her influence and legacy.

Emmy Awards: Mary Hart has won several Emmy Awards, two of which were Daytime Emmy Awards for hosting an entertainment program. These awards acknowledge Hart's abilities as a host, her commitment to high quality news, and the connections that she makes with her audience.
Peabody Award: Mary Hart was given the Peabody Award in 1986 for her coverage of AIDS on Entertainment Tonight. This award signifies Mary Hart's devotion to social issues, underscoring her dedication to responsible journalism.
Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame: The entertainment industry recognized her contributions by giving her a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2009.
Gracie Allen Award: Her outstanding contributions to media have also been recognized with multiple Gracie Allen Awards.

Mary Hart's accolades showcase her positive influence on the industry and signify her passion for her craft.

The following answers the audience's most pressing questions regarding Mary Hart's role with Entertainment Tonight.

Question 1: What was Mary Hart's role in Entertainment Tonight?

Mary Hart pioneered her career by hosting Entertainment Tonight in 1981. As the original host, she became synonymous with the entertainment program, earning respect as a public figure.

Question 2: Why did Mary Hart leave Entertainment Tonight?

Mary Hart decided to leave Entertainment Tonight in 2011, after 30 years, to dedicate time to her family and to seek other challenges. Even after departing from the show, Mary Hart has remained a source of inspiration to many.

Summary: As the original host of Entertainment Tonight, Mary Hart cemented herself as an influential media figure.