50th Anniversary

Videos

KATU's 4K Remaster of the Original 1970 News Report 

This is a HIGH-QUALITY, REMASTERED version of the original report on Oregon's exploding whale. Produced by KATU in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of Oregon's exploding whale in 2020, this version uses video from a brand new 4K transfer of the original 16mm film performed by the Oregon Historical Society.

KATU Interviews Humor Columnist Dave Barry

On the 50th anniversary of Oregon's exploding whale, Angelica Thornton of KATU News interviewed Dave Barry, the humorist whose 1990 column, "The Farside Comes to Life in Oregon," brought renewed attention to the event. 

KEZI Interviews Register-Guard reporter Larry Bacon

News story from KEZI News in Eugene, OR, that aired on November 12, 2020, the 50th anniversary of Oregon's Exploding Whale. The piece includes interviews with Larry Bacon, the Register-Guard reporter and photographer who covered the event in 1970, and Chris Van Vechten, a fan of the exploding whale who traveled to Florence, OR, for the anniversary.

Oregon Historical Society's Conversation with Paul Linnman & Doug Brazil

The Oregon Historical Society presents a special program on the 50th anniversary of Oregon's exploding whale as OHS Executive Director Kerry Tymchuk interviews legendary Oregon television and radio broadcaster Paul Linnman about the event that blasted both blubber and Paul’s career skyward. Cameraman Doug Brazil also participates. Recorded November 12, 2020.

Exploding Whale Memories with Paul Linnman & Doug Brazil

50 years later, Paul Linnman and Doug Brazil recall details of their experience with Oregon's exploding whale. KATU sat down with the original reporting team to talk about that historic day, as they remember covering the disposal of a beached whale near Florence and then the notoriety that followed.