“On December 8, 1980 the world stood still as it learned about the death of John Lennon, a music icon and former member of The Beatles,” reads a press statement. “Now, nearly 40 years after that infamous day and days after what would have been his 80th birthday, the season premiere of 20/20 tells the story of Lennon’s life, final days, and lasting legacy through the eyes of close friends and colleagues and rarely seen footage from the ABC News archives.” In addition to the archival footage, the two-hour program will feature the last interview Lennon did the day he died and interviews with the radio reporters who conducted it. The special will also include new interviews. Bob Gruen, the legendary rock and roll photographer who took the iconic photo of Lennon in his “New York City” t-shirt will remember the more moving images of the musician. Jack Douglas will speak about producing Lennon and Yoko Ono’s Double Fantasy album. Publicist Elliot Mintz will also be on hand to recall Lennon’s final years. 20/20 is anchored by David Muir and Amy Robach. The Lennon estate recently partnered with TikTok, according to CNN. The embattled platform, which has been targeted by President Trump because of its ties to China and possibly Kpop stans, put together a dedicated playlist of some of Lennon’s best-known solo songs in celebration of his 40th birthday. The songs include “Instant Karma! (We All Shine On),” “Imagine,” “Mind Games,” “Beautiful Boy,” “Woman,” “Happy Xmas (War Is Over),” “Give Peace a Chance,” “Stand By Me,” “Nobody Told Me,” “Remember” and “Gimme Some Truth.” 20/20 season 43 premieres Friday, October 16 at 9:00 p.m. on ABC.
