History ‘Is England Still Influencing America?’: Christopher Hitchens on William F. Buckley’s ‘Firing Line’ “Firing Line” was an American public affairs show founded and hosted by conservative William F. Buckley, Jr., founder and publisher of National Review magazine. Its 1,504 episodes over 33 years made “Firing Line” the longest-running public affairs show in television history with a single host. Share This Previous ArticleDepression: The Secret We Share Next ArticleJames Meredith Recounts Integrating Ole Miss December 24, 2013