Celebrating the Legacy of Steve Powell
The story of Foreman Scotty
Steve Powell’s Early Life and Education
Steve Powell—fondly remembered by Oklahomans as “Foreman Scotty”—was born in Sharon, Oklahoma, in 1930. During his youth, his family moved to Oklahoma City, where he attended the original Classen High School (now Classen School of Advanced Studies). It was at Classen that his interest in theatre began to take shape.
Hollywood Beginnings
After graduating, Powell spent time in Hollywood pursuing acting. He landed bit parts alongside other aspiring actors and actresses, including an appearance with Jane Powell. During this period, he briefly signed a contract with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM).
Return to Oklahoma and Early Broadcasting Career
In the early 1950s, Powell returned to Oklahoma and spent time serving in the Korean War, for which he received the Bronze Star. Following his honorable discharge, he decided to go into broadcasting. Powell joined WKY radio in Oklahoma City, working as a writer, commercial announcer, and on-air talent. He eventually moved into television at WKY, where he found a passion for hosting and entertaining.
The “Foreman Scotty” Show
Powell’s most memorable role began when he developed the “Foreman Scotty” character, a friendly ranch foreman who—complete with a cowboy hat and comedic sidekicks—entertained children throughout Oklahoma. After a three-year stint at KOTV in Tulsa, Powell brought the show back to WKY-TV in Oklahoma City. Debuting around 1957, the “Foreman Scotty” show ran for nearly 15 years.
Set on a ranch-themed stage, the show featured humorous sketches, visits from local kids, and recurring cast members such as Cannonball McCoy, Xavier T. Willard, and (in a later adventure segment) “3D Danny,” played by Danny Williams. One of the show’s signature elements was the “Magic Lasso,” which appeared daily to “lasso” a lucky child who would then walk away with a coveted “Golden Horseshoe.” Over time, these horseshoes became sought-after collectibles, sometimes turning up in online auctions at high prices.
Traditions and Catchphrases
A hallmark of the program was its playful energy, fueled by traditions like the secret password “nickso-billy.” According to the show’s director, Billy Nicks, they needed a special code for live Saturday broadcasts; Powell spontaneously suggested “nickso-billy,” and it stuck, eventually becoming a beloved catchphrase among viewers.
Legacy
Steve Powell and his wife Mary were proud parents and longtime Oklahoma City residents. Even years after the show ended in 1971, Foreman Scotty remained a nostalgic figure for the children who had grown up watching him. The show’s memory lives on through surviving memorabilia, local lore, and ongoing efforts to celebrate Powell’s contribution to Oklahoma television history.