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<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2>As filed with the Commission on
May 7, 2004</font></td></tr></table>

<table width=600><tr><td align=right><font size=2><B>REGISTRATION NO. 333-</B></font></td></tr></table>

<TABLE WIDTH=600><TR><TD>
<HR ALIGN=LEFT WIDTH=100% SIZE=4 noshade>
<HR ALIGN=LEFT WIDTH=100% SIZE=1 noshade>
</TD></TR></TABLE>

<p><table width=600><tr>
    <td  align=center><font size=2><B><font size="3">U</font>NITED <font size="3">S</font>TATES
      <BR>
      <font size="3">S</font>ECURITIES AND <font size="3">E</font>XCHANGE <font size="3">C</font>OMMISSION
      <BR>
      Washington, D.C. 20549</B></font></td></tr></table>

<table width=600><tr><td><hr size=1 noshade align=CENTER width=150></td></tr></table>

<table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2><B>FORM S-8</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2>REGISTRATION STATEMENT  <BR>UNDER  <BR>THE
SECURITIES ACT OF 1933</font></td></tr></table>

<table width=600><tr><td><hr size=1 noshade align=CENTER width=150></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr>
    <td  align=center><font size=2><B><font size="3">H</font>EARST-<font size="3">A</font>RGYLE
      <font size="3">T</font>ELEVISION, <font size="3">I</font>NC.</B></font></td>
  </tr></table>

<table width=600><tr><td align=center><FONT SIZE="1">(Exact name of registrant as
specified in its charter)</FONT></td></tr></table>

<p>
<p>
<table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td  align=center width="269"><font size=2><b>Delaware</b><br>
      <font size="1"> (State or other jurisdiction of <br>
      incorporation or organization) </font></font></td>
    <td  align=center width="41">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
    <td  align=center width="274"><font size=2><b>74-2717523</b><br>
      <font size="1"> (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number) </font></font></td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td  align=center width="269">&nbsp;</td>
    <td  align=center width="41">&nbsp;</td>
    <td  align=center width="274">&nbsp;</td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td  align=center width="269"><font size=2><b>888 Seventh Avenue <br>
      New York, NY 10106</b><br>
      <font size="1"> (Address of principal executive offices) </font></font></td>
    <td  align=center width="41">&nbsp;</td>
    <td  align=center width="274"><font size=2><B>(212) 887-6800</B><br>
      <font size="1"> (Registrant&#146;s telephone number, including area code)
      </font></font></td>
  </tr>
</table>




<p><table width=600><tr>
    <td  align=center><font size=2><B>HEARST-ARGYLE TELEVISION, INC. <br>
      AMENDED AND RESTATED 1997 STOCK OPTION PLAN</B></font></td>
  </tr></table>

<table width=600><tr><td align=center><FONT SIZE="1">(Full Title of the Plan)</FONT></td></tr></table>

<table width=600><tr><td><hr size=1 noshade align=CENTER width=150></td></tr></table>

<table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2>JONATHAN C. MINTZER  <BR>Vice
President, Secretary and General Counsel  <BR>Hearst-Argyle Television, Inc.  <BR>888 Seventh
Avenue  <BR>New York, New York 10106 </font></td></tr></table>

<table width=600><tr><td align=center><FONT SIZE="1">(Name and address of agent for
service)</FONT></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2>Telephone number, including area
code, of agent for service: (212) 887-6800</font></td></tr></table>

<table width=600><tr><td><hr size=1 noshade align=CENTER width=150></td></tr></table>

<table width=600><tr><td  align=center><FONT SIZE="2"><B><I>Copies to:</I></B></FONT></td></tr></table>

<table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2>Bonnie A. Barsamian, Esq.<BR>
Clifford Chance US LLP  <BR>200 Park Avenue  <BR>New York, New York 10166</font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2><B>CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE</B></font></td></tr></table>


<TABLE CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" BORDER="0" WIDTH="600">
  <TR VALIGN="BOTTOM">
    <TH COLSPAN="10">
      <hr noshade size="1">
    </TH>
  </TR>
  <TR VALIGN="BOTTOM" align="center">
    <td COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="-2">Title of Securities <BR>
      To Be Registered</FONT></td>
    <td COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="-2">Amount To Be <BR>
      Registered<sup>(1)(2)</sup> </FONT></td>
    <td COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="-2">Proposed Maximum <BR>
      Offering Price <BR>
      Per Share<sup>(3)</sup> </FONT></td>
    <td COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="-2">Proposed Maximum <BR>
      Aggregate Offering Price<sup>(3)</sup> </FONT></td>
    <td COLSPAN="2" width="108"><FONT SIZE="-2">Amount of <BR>
      Registration Fee </FONT></td>
  </TR>
  <TR VALIGN="BOTTOM">
    <TD ALIGN="center" colspan="10">
      <hr noshade size="1">
    </TD>
  </TR>
  <TR VALIGN="BOTTOM">
    <TD ALIGN="center" colspan="2"><FONT SIZE="-1">Series A Common Stock, <br>
      $0.01 par value</FONT><FONT SIZE="-1">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
    <TD ALIGN="right" WIDTH="109"><FONT SIZE="-1">5,745,362 shares</FONT></TD>
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT" WIDTH="25"><FONT SIZE="-1">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
    <TD ALIGN="center" colspan="2"><FONT SIZE="-1">$25.79 </FONT><FONT SIZE="-1">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
    <TD ALIGN="center" colspan="2"><FONT SIZE="-1">$148,172,886 </FONT><FONT SIZE="-1">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
    <TD ALIGN="center" WIDTH="108" colspan="2"><FONT SIZE="-1">$18,774 </FONT><FONT SIZE="-1">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
  </TR>
  <TR VALIGN="BOTTOM">
    <TD ALIGN="center" colspan="10">
      <hr noshade size="1">
    </TD>
  </TR>
</TABLE>


<table width=600><tr><td width=4% align=left valign=top><font size="1"><sup>(1) </sup></font></td><td width=2%><font size="1"></font></td><td width=94%><font size="1">Pursuant
to Rule 416(a) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the  number of shares being
registered shall be adjusted to include any additional  shares which may become issuable
as a result of stock splits, stock dividends  or similar transactions in accordance with
provisions of the plan.</font></td></tr></table>

<table width=600><tr><td width=4% align=left valign=top><font size="1"><sup>(2) </sup></font></td><td width=2%><font size="1"></font></td><td width=94%><font size="1">3,000,000
shares were previously registered pursuant to a registration  statement on Form S-8 (File
No. 333-35043). This registration statement  covers an additional 5,745,362 shares that
are issuable pursuant to the plan.</font></td></tr></table>

<table width=600><tr><td width=4% align=left valign=top><font size="1"><sup>(3) </sup></font></td><td width=2%><font size="1"></font></td>
    <td width=94%><font size="1">Estimated solely for the purpose of calculating
      the registration fee, pursuant to Rule 457(c) and (h), based on the average
      of the high and low prices of the Series A Common Stock reported on the
      New York Stock Exchange on May 6, 2004.</font></td>
  </tr></table>

<br>
<TABLE WIDTH=600><TR><TD>
<HR ALIGN=LEFT WIDTH=100% SIZE=1 noshade>
<HR ALIGN=LEFT WIDTH=100% SIZE=4 noshade>
</TD></TR></TABLE>

<p>&nbsp;
<p>&nbsp;<hr size=5 noshade width=600 align=LEFT><p>&nbsp;






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<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2><B>PART I</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2><B>INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE
SECTION 10(A) PROSPECTUS</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>Pursuant to the requirements of the introductory
note to Part I of Form S-8 and  Rule 428(b)(1) under the Securities Act of 1933, as
amended, the information  required by Part I of Form S-8 is omitted from this filing, and
is included in a  booklet, which is distributed to the key employees and non-employee
directors of  Hearst-Argyle Television, Inc., who hold stock options granted under the
Amended  and Restated 1997 Stock Option Plan. This booklet, as it may be amended from
time to time, together with the documents incorporated by reference as described  in Item
3 of Part II of this registration statement, constitutes a Section 10(a)  prospectus.</font></td></tr></table>

<p>&nbsp;
<table width=600><tr><td width=60 align=left><font size=1>&nbsp;</font></td><td width=480 align=center><font size="2">
</font></td><td width=60 align=right><font size="1">&nbsp;</font></td></tr></table><p>&nbsp;<hr size=5 noshade width=600 align=LEFT><p>&nbsp;








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<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2><B>PROSPECTUS FOR RESALES</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>The following prospectus constitutes a reoffer
prospectus, prepared in  accordance with the requirements of Part I of Form S-3 and filed
as part of this  registration statement as permitted by General Instruction C to Form
S-8, to be  used in connection with resales of shares of Series A Common Stock acquired
under the Amended and Restated 1997 Stock Option Plan, by affiliates of  Hearst-Argyle
Television Inc., as defined in Rule 405 under the Securities Act  of 1933, as amended.</font></td></tr></table>

<p>&nbsp;
<table width=600><tr><td width=60 align=left><font size=1>&nbsp;</font></td><td width=480 align=center><font size="2">
</font></td><td width=60 align=right><font size="1">&nbsp;</font></td></tr></table><p>&nbsp;<hr size=5 noshade width=600 align=LEFT><p>&nbsp;






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<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2><B>PROSPECTUS</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2><B>HEARST-ARGYLE TELEVISION, INC.</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2><B>SERIES A COMMON STOCK</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2>(Par value $0.01 per share)</font></td></tr></table>


<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>The 5,745,362 shares of our Series A Common
Stock to which this prospectus  relates may be offered from time to time by the people
described in this  prospectus under &#147;Selling Security Holders&#148; on the New York
Stock Exchange,  where our Series A Common Stock currently is traded, on any securities
exchanges  or other quotation systems on which our Series A Common Stock may be traded,
in  the over-the-counter market or in negotiated transactions, at prices and on  terms
then available. The respective selling security holders will pay any  brokerage fees or
commissions relating to sales by them. See &#147;Method of Sale&#148; in  this
prospectus. We will not receive any of the proceeds of any such sales. Our  principal
executive office is located at 888 Seventh Avenue, New York, New York  10106 (Telephone
No. (212) 887-6800).</font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><FONT SIZE="2"><B>NEITHER THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
NOR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION HAS APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED OF THESE SECURITIES OR
DETERMINED THAT THIS PROSPECTUS IS ACCURATE OR COMPLETE. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE
CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.</B></FONT></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>We are paying the expenses of preparing and
filing the registration statement of  which this prospectus is a part.</font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2>The date of this prospectus is May
5, 2004.</font></td></tr></table>

<p>&nbsp;
<table width=600><tr><td width=60 align=left><font size=1>&nbsp;</font></td><td width=480 align=center><font size="2">
</font></td><td width=60 align=right><font size="1">&nbsp;</font></td></tr></table><p>&nbsp;<hr size=5 noshade width=600 align=LEFT><p>&nbsp;







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<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2><B>TABLE OF CONTENTS</B></font></td></tr></table>




<br>
<TABLE CELLPADDING="0" CELLSPACING="0" BORDER="0" WIDTH="600">
  <TR VALIGN="BOTTOM">
    <TH COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="-2"></FONT></TH>
    <TH COLSPAN="2"><FONT SIZE="-2">Page</FONT></TH>
  </TR>
  <TR VALIGN="BOTTOM">
    <TD WIDTH="89%" ALIGN="LEFT"><FONT SIZE="-1">Incorporation by Reference</FONT></TD>
    <TD WIDTH="7%" ALIGN="LEFT"><FONT SIZE="-1">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
    <TD WIDTH="2%" ALIGN="RIGHT"><FONT SIZE="-1">2</FONT></TD>
    <TD WIDTH="2%" ALIGN="LEFT"><FONT SIZE="-1">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
  </TR>
  <TR VALIGN="BOTTOM">
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT">&nbsp;</TD>
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT">&nbsp;</TD>
    <TD ALIGN="RIGHT">&nbsp;</TD>
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT">&nbsp;</TD>
  </TR>
  <TR VALIGN="BOTTOM">
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT"><FONT SIZE="-1">Information We File</FONT></TD>
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT"><FONT SIZE="-1">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
    <TD ALIGN="RIGHT"><FONT SIZE="-1">3</FONT></TD>
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT"><FONT SIZE="-1">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
  </TR>
  <TR VALIGN="BOTTOM">
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT">&nbsp;</TD>
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT">&nbsp;</TD>
    <TD ALIGN="RIGHT">&nbsp;</TD>
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT">&nbsp;</TD>
  </TR>
  <TR VALIGN="BOTTOM">
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT"><FONT SIZE="-1">Selling Security Holders</FONT></TD>
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT"><FONT SIZE="-1">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
    <TD ALIGN="RIGHT"><FONT SIZE="-1">3</FONT></TD>
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT"><FONT SIZE="-1">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
  </TR>
  <TR VALIGN="BOTTOM">
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT">&nbsp;</TD>
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT">&nbsp;</TD>
    <TD ALIGN="RIGHT">&nbsp;</TD>
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT">&nbsp;</TD>
  </TR>
  <TR VALIGN="BOTTOM">
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT"><FONT SIZE="-1">Method of Sale</FONT></TD>
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT"><FONT SIZE="-1">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
    <TD ALIGN="RIGHT"><FONT SIZE="-1">3</FONT></TD>
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT"><FONT SIZE="-1">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
  </TR>
  <TR VALIGN="BOTTOM">
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT">&nbsp;</TD>
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT">&nbsp;</TD>
    <TD ALIGN="RIGHT">&nbsp;</TD>
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT">&nbsp;</TD>
  </TR>
  <TR VALIGN="BOTTOM">
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT"><FONT SIZE="-1">SEC Position Regarding Indemnification</FONT></TD>
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT"><FONT SIZE="-1">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
    <TD ALIGN="RIGHT"><FONT SIZE="-1">3</FONT></TD>
    <TD ALIGN="LEFT"><FONT SIZE="-1">&nbsp;</FONT></TD>
  </TR>
</TABLE>

<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2><B>INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>We are incorporating by reference in this
prospectus the following documents  which we have previously filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission under  the File Number 1-14776:</font></td></tr></table>

<br>
<table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td width=3%></td>
    <td width=1% valign=top><font size=3>&#149;</font></td>
    <td width=3%></td>
    <td width=93%><font size=2>our
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended  December 31, 2003;</font></td></tr></table>

<table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td width=3%></td>
    <td width=1% valign=top><font size=3>&#149;</font></td>
    <td width=3%></td>
    <td width=93%><font size=2>our
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2004;</font></td></tr></table>

<table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td width=3%></td>
    <td width=1% valign=top><font size=3>&#149;</font></td>
    <td width=3%></td>
    <td width=93%><font size=2>the
description of our Series A Common Stock contained in our  registration statement on Form
8-A/A filed on July 14, 1998, as  that description has been altered by amendment or
reports filed  for the purpose of updating that description; and</font></td></tr></table>

<table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td width=3%></td>
    <td width=1% valign=top><font size=3>&#149;</font></td>
    <td width=3%></td>
    <td width=93%><font size=2>all
other reports we filed pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934 since December 31, 2003.</font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>When we file documents in accordance with
Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 and 15(d) of  the Exchange Act between the date of this
registration statement and the time we  file a post-effective amendment to the
registration statement saying all the  securities which are the subject of that
registration statement have been sold  or deregistering any securities which have not
been sold, the documents we file  will be incorporated into this registration statement
and will be a part of it  beginning on the date the documents are filed. If any document
which we file  changes anything said in this registration statement or in an earlier
document  which is incorporated into this registration statement, the later document will
modify or supersede what is said in this registration statement or the earlier  document.</font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>You may request a copy of these filings at no
cost, other than exhibits to those  documents which are not specifically incorporated by
reference, by writing or  telephoning us at the following address: Hearst-Argyle
Television, Inc., 888  Seventh Avenue, New York, New York 10106, Attention: Office of the
General  Counsel, telephone number (212) 887-6800.</font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2><B>INFORMATION WE FILE</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>We file annual, quarterly and current reports,
proxy statements and other  materials with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The
public can read and  copy any materials we file with the Securities and Exchange
Commission at its  Public Reference Room at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C.
20549. The  public can obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room
by  calling </font></td></tr></table>

<p>&nbsp;
<table width=600><tr><td width=60 align=left><font size=1>&nbsp;</font></td><td width=480 align=center><font size="2">
2</font></td><td width=60 align=right><font size="1">&nbsp;</font></td></tr></table><p>&nbsp;<hr size=5 noshade width=600 align=LEFT><p>&nbsp;





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<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>the Securities and Exchange Commission at
1-800-SEC-0330. The Securities  and Exchange Commission maintains an Internet site that
contains reports, proxy  and information statements and other information regarding
issuers (including  us) that file electronically with the Securities and Exchange
Commission. The  address of that site is http://www.sec.gov. Reports, proxy statements
and other  information we file also can be inspected at the offices of the New York Stock
Exchange, 20 Broad Street, New York, New York 10005.</font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2><B>SELLING SECURITY HOLDERS</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>This prospectus relates to possible sales by our
key employees and non-employee  directors of shares of our Series A Common Stock which
they acquire through  exercise of options granted under our Amended and Restated 1997
Stock Option  Plan. We do not know at this time who may be selling security holders from
time  to time. We will provide the names of those people, along with the number of
shares of Series A Common Stock owned, and the number of shares which may be  sold, by
each of those people from time to time in supplements to this  prospectus, which we will
file with the Securities and Exchange Commission in  accordance with Rule 424(b) under
the Securities Act of 1933.</font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2><B>METHOD OF SALE</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>The shares offered by this prospectus may be
sold on the New York Stock  Exchange, where our Series A Common Stock currently trades,
in other markets  where our Series A Common Stock may be traded, or in negotiated
transactions.  Sales will be at prices that are current when the sales take place.
Selling  security holders may pay brokers&#146; commissions. There is no present plan of
distribution.</font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2><B>SEC POSITION REGARDING
INDEMNIFICATION</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>Our Amended and Restated Certificate of
Incorporation provides for  indemnification of officers and directors to the fullest
extent permitted by  Delaware law. We have been informed that, in the opinion of the
Securities and  Exchange Commission, insofar as directors, officers or other persons who
control  us may become entitled under the provisions of our certificate of incorporation
to indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933,  that
indemnification is against public policy as expressed in that Act and is  therefore
unenforceable.</font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>We have in force a directors&#146; and officers&#146;
liability insurance policy insuring,  up to specified amounts and with specified
exceptions, our directors and  officers and our former directors and officers against
liabilities. The effect  of the policy is to indemnify those persons against losses
incurred by them  while acting in those capacities.</font></td></tr></table>

<p>&nbsp;
<table width=600><tr><td width=60 align=left><font size=1>&nbsp;</font></td><td width=480 align=center><font size="2">
3</font></td><td width=60 align=right><font size="1">&nbsp;</font></td></tr></table><p>&nbsp;<hr size=5 noshade width=600 align=LEFT><p>&nbsp;





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<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2><B>PART II</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2><B>Item 3.  Incorporation of Documents by
Reference.</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>The following documents are incorporated by
reference in this registration  statement:</font></td></tr></table>

<br>
<table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td width=3%></td>
    <td width=1% valign=top><font size=3>&#149;</font></td>
    <td width=3%></td>
    <td width=93%><font size=2>our
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended  December 31, 2003;</font></td></tr></table>

<table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td width=3%></td>
    <td width=1% valign=top><font size=3>&#149;</font></td>
    <td width=3%></td>
    <td width=93%><font size=2>our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal
      quarter ended March 31, 2004;</font></td>
  </tr></table>

<table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td width=3%></td>
    <td width=1% valign=top><font size=3>&#149;</font></td>
    <td width=3%></td>
    <td width=93%><font size=2>the
description of our Series A Common Stock contained in our  registration statement on Form
8-A/A filed on July 14, 1998, as  that description has been altered by amendment or
reports filed  for the purpose of updating that description; and</font></td></tr></table>

<table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td width=3%></td>
    <td width=1% valign=top><font size=3>&#149;</font></td>
    <td width=3%></td>
    <td width=93%><font size=2>all
other reports we filed pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934 since December 31, 2003.</font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>When we file documents in accordance with
Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 and 15(d) of  the Exchange Act between the date of this
registration statement and the time we  file a post-effective amendment to the
registration statement saying all the  securities which are the subject of that
registration statement have been sold  or deregistering any securities which have not
been sold, the documents we file  will be incorporated into this registration statement
and will be a part of it  beginning on the date the documents are filed. If any document
which we file  changes anything said in this registration statement or in an earlier
document  which is incorporated into this registration statement, the later document will
modify or supersede what is said in this registration statement or the earlier  document.</font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>You may request a copy of these filings at no
cost, other than exhibits to those  documents which are not specifically incorporated by
reference, by writing or  telephoning us at the following address: Hearst-Argyle
Television, Inc., 888  Seventh Avenue, New York, New York 10106, Attention: Office of the
General  Counsel, telephone number (212) 887-6800.</font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2><B>Item 4.  Description of Securities.</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>Not applicable.</font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2><B>Item 5.  Interests of Named Experts and
Counsel.</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>Not applicable.</font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2><B>Item 6.  Indemnification of Directors and
Officers.</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>Our Amended and Restated Certificate of
Incorporation provides for  indemnification of officers and directors to the fullest
extent permitted by  Delaware law. We maintain liability insurance insuring our officers
and  directors against liabilities that they may incur in such capacities, including
certain liabilities arising under the Federal securities laws. Our directors and
officers may be entitled to additional indemnification under Section 145 of the  Delaware
General Corporation Law.</font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2><B>Item 7.  Exemption from Registration Claimed.</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>Not Applicable.</font></td></tr></table>

<p>&nbsp;
<table width=600><tr><td width=60 align=left><font size=1>&nbsp;</font></td><td width=480 align=center><font size="2">
II-1</font></td><td width=60 align=right><font size="1">&nbsp;</font></td></tr></table><p>&nbsp;<hr size=5 noshade width=600 align=LEFT><p>&nbsp;





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<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2><B>Item 8.  Exhibits.</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>The following documents are filed with this
registration statement:</font></td></tr></table>

<P><table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td width=10% valign=top>&nbsp;</td>
    <td width=10% valign="top"><font size="2">4.1 </font></td><td width=80%><font size="2"> Amended
and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of  Hearst-Argyle Television, Inc.,
(incorporated by reference to  Appendix C to the Company&#146;s Form S-4 (File No.
333-32487)), as  amended by the Certificate of Amendment to the Amended and  Restated
Certificate of Incorporation of Hearst-Argyle  Television, Inc. (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 3.3 of  the Company&#146;s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December
31,  1998).</font></td></tr></table>

<P><table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td width=10% valign=top>&nbsp;</td>
    <td width=10% valign="top"><font size="2">4.2 </font></td><td width=80%><font size="2"> Amended
and  Restated  Bylaws of  Hearst-Argyle  Television,  Inc.  (incorporated  by reference
to Exhibit 3.2 of the  Company&#146;s Form S-4 (File No. 333-72207)).</font></td></tr></table>

<P><table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td width=10% valign=top>&nbsp;</td>
    <td width=10% valign="top"><font size="2">5.1 </font></td><td width=80%><font size="2"> Opinion
of Clifford Chance US LLP.</font></td></tr></table>

<P><table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td width=10% valign=top>&nbsp;</td>
    <td width=10% valign="top"><font size="2">23.1 </font></td><td width=80%><font size="2"> Consent
of Clifford Chance US LLP (included in opinion filed as Exhibit 5.1).</font></td></tr></table>

<P><table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td width=10% valign=top>&nbsp;</td>
    <td width=10% valign="top"><font size="2">23.2 </font></td><td width=80%><font size="2"> Consent
of Deloitte &amp; Touche LLP.</font></td></tr></table>

<P><table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td width=10% valign=top>&nbsp;</td>
    <td width=10% valign="top"><font size="2">24.1 </font></td><td width=80%><font size="2"> Powers
of Attorney (included on the signature pages of this registration statement).</font></td></tr></table>

<P><table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td width=10% valign=top>&nbsp;</td>
    <td width=10% valign="top"><font size="2">99.1 </font></td><td width=80%><font size="2"> Hearst-Argyle
Television, Inc. Amended and Restated 1997 Stock Option Plan.</font></td></tr></table>


<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2><B>Item 9.  Undertakings.</B></font></td></tr></table>

<P>
<table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td width=100% valign=top colspan="2"><font size="2">&nbsp;(a) </font><font size="2">The
      undersigned registrant hereby undertakes:</font></td>
  </tr>
</table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) To file,
during any period in which offers or sales are being made,  a post-effective amendment to
this registration statement to include any  material information with respect to the plan
of distribution not previously  disclosed in the registration statement or any material
change to such  information in the registration statement.</font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) That, for the
purpose of determining any liability under the  Securities Act of 1933, each such
post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be  a new registration statement relating to
the securities offered therein, and the  offering of such securities at that time shall
be deemed to be the initial bona  fide offering thereof.</font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) To remove from
registration by means of a post-effective amendment  any of the securities being
registered which remain unsold at the termination of  the offering.</font></td></tr></table>

<P>
<table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td width=100% valign=top colspan="2"><font size="2">&nbsp;(b) </font><font size="2">The
      undersigned registrant hereby undertakes that, for purposes of determining
      any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each filing of the registrant&#146;s
      annual report pursuant to Section 13(a) or Section 15(d) of the Securities
      Exchange Act of 1934 that is incorporated by reference in the registration
      statement shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to
      the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that
      time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.</font></td>
  </tr>
</table>

<P>
<table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td width=100% valign=top colspan="2"><font size="2">&nbsp;(c) </font><font size="2">Insofar
      as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933
      may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the registrant
      pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the registrant has been
      advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such
      indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is,
      therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification
      against such liabilities (other </font></td>
  </tr>
</table>

<p>&nbsp;
<table width=600><tr><td width=60 align=left><font size=1>&nbsp;</font></td><td width=480 align=center><font size="2">
II-2</font></td><td width=60 align=right><font size="1">&nbsp;</font></td></tr></table><p>&nbsp;<hr size=5 noshade width=600 align=LEFT><p>&nbsp;





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<!-- MARKER PAGE="sheet: 8; page: 8" -->

<P>
<table width=600>
  <tr>
    <td width=100% valign=top colspan="2"><font size="2">than the payment by the
      registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling
      person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or
      proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person
      in connection with the securities being registered, the registrant will,
      unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling
      precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether
      such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the
      Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.</font></td>
  </tr>
</table>

<p>&nbsp;
<table width=600><tr><td width=60 align=left><font size=1>&nbsp;</font></td><td width=480 align=center><font size="2">
II-3</font></td><td width=60 align=right><font size="1">&nbsp;</font></td></tr></table><p>&nbsp;<hr size=5 noshade width=600 align=LEFT><p>&nbsp;






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<!-- MARKER PAGE="sheet: 9; page: 9" -->

<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2><B>SIGNATURES</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pursuant to the
requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the  registrant certifies that it has
reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all  of the requirements for filing on Form
S-8 and has duly caused this registration  statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly  authorized, in the City of New York, State of New York, on
this 5th day of May,  2004.</font></td></tr></table>


<p>
<table width=600>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=282>&nbsp;</td>
    <td colspan="2">
      <p><font size=2><b>HEARST-ARGYLE TELEVISION, INC.</b></font></p>
      <p>&nbsp;</p>
    </td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=282 align="right">&nbsp;</td>
    <td width=34 align="left"><font size=2>By:&nbsp;&nbsp;</font></td>
    <td width=268><font size=2> /s/ David J. Barrett <br>
      </font>
      <hr noshade size="1">
      <font size=2>David J. Barrett <br>
      President and Chief Executive Officer</font></td>
  </tr>
</table>

<p>&nbsp;
<table width=600><tr><td width=60 align=left><font size=1>&nbsp;</font></td><td width=480 align=center><font size="2">
II-4</font></td><td width=60 align=right><font size="1">&nbsp;</font></td></tr></table><p>&nbsp;<hr size=5 noshade width=600 align=LEFT><p>&nbsp;






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<!-- MARKER PAGE="sheet: 10; page: 10" -->

<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2><B>POWER OF ATTORNEY</B></font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>KNOW ALL MEN AND WOMEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that
each person whose signature  appears below constitutes and appoints each of Jonathan C.
Mintzer, Steven A.  Hobbs and Susan C. Shelton his or her true and lawful
attorney-in-fact and  agent, with full powers of substitution to sign for him or her and
in his or her  name any or all amendments (including post-effective amendments) to the
registration statement to which this power of attorney is attached.</font></td></tr></table>

<p><table width=600><tr><td><font size=2>Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities
Act of 1933, this registration  statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the  dates indicated.</font></td></tr></table>

<p>
<p>
<table width=600>
  <tr align="center">
    <td width=224><font size=2>Signature</font>
      <hr noshade size="1" align="center" width="30%">
    </td>
    <td width=17>&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
    <td width=209><font size=2>Title</font>
      <hr noshade size="1" align="center" width="30%">
    </td>
    <td width=17>&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
    <td width=109><font size=2>Date</font>
      <hr noshade size="1" align="center" width="30%">
    </td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224><font size=2>/s/ David J. Barrett<br>
      </font>
      <hr noshade size="1">
      <font size=2> David J. Barrett</font></td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=209><font size=2>President, <br>
      Chief Executive Officer and <br>
      Chairman of the Board<br>
      (Principal Executive Officer)</font></td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=109><font size=2>May 5, 2004</font></td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=209>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=109>&nbsp;</td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224><font size=2>/s/ Harry T. Hawks<br>
      </font>
      <hr noshade size="1">
      <font size=2> Harry T. Hawks</font></td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=209><font size=2>Executive Vice President and <br>
      Chief Financial Officer<br>
      (Principal Financial Officer)</font></td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=109><font size=2>May 5, 2004</font></td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=209>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=109>&nbsp;</td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224><font size=2>/s/ Victor F. Ganzi<br>
      </font>
      <hr noshade size="1">
      <font size=2> Victor F. Ganzi </font></td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=209><font size=2>Chairman of the Board </font></td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=109><font size=2>May 5, 2004</font></td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=209>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=109>&nbsp;</td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224><font size=2>/s/ Frank A. Bennack, Jr. <br>
      </font>
      <hr noshade size="1">
      <font size=2> Frank A. Bennack, Jr. </font></td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=209><font size=2>Director</font></td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=109><font size=2>May 5, 2004</font></td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=209>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=109>&nbsp;</td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224><font size=2>/s/ John G. Conomikes<br>
      </font>
      <hr noshade size="1">
      <font size=2> John G. Conomikes</font></td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=209><font size=2>Director</font></td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=109><font size=2>May 5, 2004</font></td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=209>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=109>&nbsp;</td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224><font size=2>/s/ Ken J. Elkins <br>
      </font>
      <hr noshade size="1">
      <font size=2> Ken J. Elkins </font></td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=209><font size=2>Director</font></td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=109><font size=2>May 5, 2004</font></td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=209>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=109>&nbsp;</td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224> <br>
      <hr noshade size="1">
      <font size=2>George R. Hearst, Jr.</font></td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=209><font size=2>Director</font></td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=109><font size=2>May 5, 2004</font></td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=209>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=109>&nbsp;</td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224><font size=2>/s/ William R. Hearst III <br>
      </font>
      <hr noshade size="1">
      <font size=2> William R. Hearst III </font></td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=209><font size=2>Director</font></td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=109><font size=2>May 5, 2004</font></td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=209>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=109>&nbsp;</td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224><font size=2>/s/ Bob Marbut<br>
      </font>
      <hr noshade size="1">
      <font size=2> Bob Marbut</font></td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=209><font size=2>Director</font></td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=109><font size=2>May 5, 2004</font></td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=209>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=109>&nbsp;</td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224><font size=2>/s/ Gilbert C. Maurer <br>
      </font>
      <hr noshade size="1">
      <font size=2> Gilbert C. Maurer</font></td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=209><font size=2>Director</font></td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=109><font size=2>May 5, 2004</font></td>
  </tr>
</table>

<p>&nbsp;
<table width=600><tr><td width=60 align=left><font size=1>&nbsp;</font></td><td width=480 align=center><font size="2">
II-5</font></td><td width=60 align=right><font size="1">&nbsp;</font></td></tr></table><p>&nbsp;<hr size=5 noshade width=600 align=LEFT><p>&nbsp;





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<br>
<br>
<table width=600>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224><font size=2>/s/ Michael E. Pulitzer <br>
      </font>
      <hr noshade size="1">
      <font size=2> Michael E. Pulitzer </font></td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=209><font size=2>Director</font></td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=109><font size=2>May 5, 2004</font></td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=209>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=109>&nbsp;</td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224><font size=2>/s/ David Pulver <br>
      </font>
      <hr noshade size="1">
      <font size=2> David Pulver</font></td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=209><font size=2>Director</font></td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=109><font size=2>May 5, 2004</font></td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=209>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=109>&nbsp;</td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224> <br>
      <hr noshade size="1">
      <font size=2>Virginia H. Randt</font></td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=209><font size=2>Director</font></td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=109><font size=2>May 5, 2004</font></td>
  </tr>
  <tr valign="top">
    <td width=224><font size=2> </font><font size=2> </font><font size=2> </font><font size=2>
      </font> <font size=2> </font><font size=2> </font><font size=2> </font><font size=2>
      </font> <font size=2> </font></td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=209><font size=2> </font></td>
    <td align="center" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" width=109><font size=2> </font></td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td width=224><font size=2>/s/ Caroline L. Williams <br>
      </font>
      <hr noshade size="1">
      <font size=2> Caroline L. Williams</font></td>
    <td width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=209><font size=2>Director</font></td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=17>&nbsp;</td>
    <td align="center" valign="top" width=109><font size=2>May 5, 2004</font></td>
  </tr>
</table>
<p>&nbsp;
<table width=600><tr><td width=60 align=left><font size=1>&nbsp;</font></td><td width=480 align=center><font size="2">
II-6</font></td><td width=60 align=right><font size="1">&nbsp;</font></td></tr></table><p>&nbsp;<hr size=5 noshade width=600 align=LEFT><p>&nbsp;





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<p><table width=600><tr><td  align=center><font size=2><B>INDEX TO EXHIBITS</B></font></td></tr></table>

<P>
<table width=600>
  <tr valign="bottom">
    <td width=10%><font size="2">Exhibit<br>
      Number</font>
      <hr noshade size="1" align="left" width="90%">
    </td>
    <td width=90%><font size="2">Exhibit</font>
      <hr noshade size="1" align="left" width="8%">
    </td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td width=10% valign=top>&nbsp;</td>
    <td width=90%>&nbsp;</td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td width=10% valign=top><font size="2">&nbsp;4.1 </font></td>
    <td width=90%><font size="2"> Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation
      of Hearst-Argyle Television, Inc., (incorporated by reference to Appendix
      C to the Company&#146;s Form S-4 (File No. 333-32487)), as amended by the
      Certificate of Amendment to the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation
      of Hearst-Argyle Television, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
      3.3 of the Company&#146;s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31,
      1998).</font></td>
  </tr>
</table>

<P><table width=600><tr><td width=10% valign=top><font size="2">&nbsp;4.2 </font></td><td width=90%><font size="2"> Amended
and Restated Bylaws of Hearst-Argyle  Television,  Inc.  (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 3.2 of the Company&#146;s Form S-4 (File No. 333-72207)).</font></td></tr></table>

<P><table width=600><tr><td width=10% valign=top><font size="2">&nbsp;5.1 </font></td><td width=90%><font size="2"> Opinion
of Clifford Chance US LLP.</font></td></tr></table>

<P><table width=600><tr><td width=10% valign=top><font size="2">&nbsp;23.1 </font></td><td width=90%><font size="2"> Consent
of Clifford Chance US LLP (included in opinion filed as Exhibit 5.1).</font></td></tr></table>

<P><table width=600><tr><td width=10% valign=top><font size="2">&nbsp;23.2 </font></td><td width=90%><font size="2"> Consent
of Deloitte &amp; Touche LLP.</font></td></tr></table>

<P><table width=600><tr><td width=10% valign=top><font size="2">&nbsp;24.1 </font></td><td width=90%><font size="2"> Powers
of Attorney (included on the signature pages of this registration statement).</font></td></tr></table>

<P><table width=600><tr><td width=10% valign=top><font size="2">&nbsp;99.1 </font></td><td width=90%><font size="2"> Hearst-Argyle
Television, Inc. Amended and Restated 1997 Stock Option Plan.</font></td></tr></table>

<p>&nbsp;
<table width=600><tr><td width=60 align=left><font size=1>&nbsp;</font></td><td width=480 align=center><font size="2">
</font></td><td width=60 align=right><font size="1">&nbsp;</font></td></tr></table><p>&nbsp;<hr size=5 noshade width=600 align=LEFT><p>&nbsp;

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[{"type": "S-8", "sequence": "1", "filename": "e17826s-8.htm", "description": "FORM S-8", "secsgml_size_bytes": 49112}]
{"company-data": {"conformed-name": "HEARST ARGYLE TELEVISION INC", "cik": "0000949536", "assigned-sic": "4833", "irs-number": "742717523", "state-of-incorporation": "DE", "fiscal-year-end": "1231"}, "filing-values": {"form-type": "S-8", "act": "33", "file-number": "333-115279", "film-number": "04788525"}, "business-address": {"street1": "888 SEVENTH AVE", "city": "NEW YORK", "state": "NY", "zip": "10106", "phone": "2126492300"}, "mail-address": {"street1": "200 CONCORD PLAZA", "street2": "STE 700", "city": "SAN ANTONIO", "state": "TX", "zip": "78216"}, "former-company": {"former-conformed-name": "ARGYLE TELEVISION INC", "date-changed": "19951006"}}
As filed with the Commission on
May 7, 2004
REGISTRATION NO. 333-
U
NITED
S
TATES
S
ECURITIES AND
E
XCHANGE
C
OMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM S-8
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE
SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
H
EARST-
A
RGYLE
T
ELEVISION,
I
NC.
(Exact name of registrant as
specified in its charter)
Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
74-2717523
(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)
888 Seventh Avenue
New York, NY 10106
(Address of principal executive offices)
(212) 887-6800
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
HEARST-ARGYLE TELEVISION, INC.
AMENDED AND RESTATED 1997 STOCK OPTION PLAN
(Full Title of the Plan)
JONATHAN C. MINTZER
Vice
President, Secretary and General Counsel
Hearst-Argyle Television, Inc.
888 Seventh
Avenue
New York, New York 10106
(Name and address of agent for
service)
Telephone number, including area
code, of agent for service: (212) 887-6800
Copies to:
Bonnie A. Barsamian, Esq.
Clifford Chance US LLP
200 Park Avenue
New York, New York 10166
CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE
Title of Securities
To Be Registered
Amount To Be
Registered
(1)(2)
Proposed Maximum
Offering Price
Per Share
(3)
Proposed Maximum
Aggregate Offering Price
(3)
Amount of
Registration Fee
Series A Common Stock,
$0.01 par value
5,745,362 shares
$25.79
$148,172,886
$18,774
(1)
Pursuant
to Rule 416(a) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the  number of shares being
registered shall be adjusted to include any additional  shares which may become issuable
as a result of stock splits, stock dividends  or similar transactions in accordance with
provisions of the plan.
(2)
3,000,000
shares were previously registered pursuant to a registration  statement on Form S-8 (File
No. 333-35043). This registration statement  covers an additional 5,745,362 shares that
are issuable pursuant to the plan.
(3)
Estimated solely for the purpose of calculating
      the registration fee, pursuant to Rule 457(c) and (h), based on the average
      of the high and low prices of the Series A Common Stock reported on the
      New York Stock Exchange on May 6, 2004.
PART I
INFORMATION REQUIRED IN THE
SECTION 10(A) PROSPECTUS
Pursuant to the requirements of the introductory
note to Part I of Form S-8 and  Rule 428(b)(1) under the Securities Act of 1933, as
amended, the information  required by Part I of Form S-8 is omitted from this filing, and
is included in a  booklet, which is distributed to the key employees and non-employee
directors of  Hearst-Argyle Television, Inc., who hold stock options granted under the
Amended  and Restated 1997 Stock Option Plan. This booklet, as it may be amended from
time to time, together with the documents incorporated by reference as described  in Item
3 of Part II of this registration statement, constitutes a Section 10(a)  prospectus.
PROSPECTUS FOR RESALES
The following prospectus constitutes a reoffer
prospectus, prepared in  accordance with the requirements of Part I of Form S-3 and filed
as part of this  registration statement as permitted by General Instruction C to Form
S-8, to be  used in connection with resales of shares of Series A Common Stock acquired
under the Amended and Restated 1997 Stock Option Plan, by affiliates of  Hearst-Argyle
Television Inc., as defined in Rule 405 under the Securities Act  of 1933, as amended.
PROSPECTUS
HEARST-ARGYLE TELEVISION, INC.
SERIES A COMMON STOCK
(Par value $0.01 per share)
The 5,745,362 shares of our Series A Common
Stock to which this prospectus  relates may be offered from time to time by the people
described in this  prospectus under "Selling Security Holders" on the New York
Stock Exchange,  where our Series A Common Stock currently is traded, on any securities
exchanges  or other quotation systems on which our Series A Common Stock may be traded,
in  the over-the-counter market or in negotiated transactions, at prices and on  terms
then available. The respective selling security holders will pay any  brokerage fees or
commissions relating to sales by them. See "Method of Sale" in  this
prospectus. We will not receive any of the proceeds of any such sales. Our  principal
executive office is located at 888 Seventh Avenue, New York, New York  10106 (Telephone
No. (212) 887-6800).
NEITHER THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
NOR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION HAS APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED OF THESE SECURITIES OR
DETERMINED THAT THIS PROSPECTUS IS ACCURATE OR COMPLETE. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE
CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
We are paying the expenses of preparing and
filing the registration statement of  which this prospectus is a part.
The date of this prospectus is May
5, 2004.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Incorporation by Reference
2
Information We File
3
Selling Security Holders
3
Method of Sale
3
SEC Position Regarding Indemnification
3
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
We are incorporating by reference in this
prospectus the following documents  which we have previously filed with the Securities
and Exchange Commission under  the File Number 1-14776:
•
our
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended  December 31, 2003;
•
our
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2004;
•
the
description of our Series A Common Stock contained in our  registration statement on Form
8-A/A filed on July 14, 1998, as  that description has been altered by amendment or
reports filed  for the purpose of updating that description; and
•
all
other reports we filed pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934 since December 31, 2003.
When we file documents in accordance with
Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 and 15(d) of  the Exchange Act between the date of this
registration statement and the time we  file a post-effective amendment to the
registration statement saying all the  securities which are the subject of that
registration statement have been sold  or deregistering any securities which have not
been sold, the documents we file  will be incorporated into this registration statement
and will be a part of it  beginning on the date the documents are filed. If any document
which we file  changes anything said in this registration statement or in an earlier
document  which is incorporated into this registration statement, the later document will
modify or supersede what is said in this registration statement or the earlier  document.
You may request a copy of these filings at no
cost, other than exhibits to those  documents which are not specifically incorporated by
reference, by writing or  telephoning us at the following address: Hearst-Argyle
Television, Inc., 888  Seventh Avenue, New York, New York 10106, Attention: Office of the
General  Counsel, telephone number (212) 887-6800.
INFORMATION WE FILE
We file annual, quarterly and current reports,
proxy statements and other  materials with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The
public can read and  copy any materials we file with the Securities and Exchange
Commission at its  Public Reference Room at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C.
20549. The  public can obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room
by  calling
2
the Securities and Exchange Commission at
1-800-SEC-0330. The Securities  and Exchange Commission maintains an Internet site that
contains reports, proxy  and information statements and other information regarding
issuers (including  us) that file electronically with the Securities and Exchange
Commission. The  address of that site is http://www.sec.gov. Reports, proxy statements
and other  information we file also can be inspected at the offices of the New York Stock
Exchange, 20 Broad Street, New York, New York 10005.
SELLING SECURITY HOLDERS
This prospectus relates to possible sales by our
key employees and non-employee  directors of shares of our Series A Common Stock which
they acquire through  exercise of options granted under our Amended and Restated 1997
Stock Option  Plan. We do not know at this time who may be selling security holders from
time  to time. We will provide the names of those people, along with the number of
shares of Series A Common Stock owned, and the number of shares which may be  sold, by
each of those people from time to time in supplements to this  prospectus, which we will
file with the Securities and Exchange Commission in  accordance with Rule 424(b) under
the Securities Act of 1933.
METHOD OF SALE
The shares offered by this prospectus may be
sold on the New York Stock  Exchange, where our Series A Common Stock currently trades,
in other markets  where our Series A Common Stock may be traded, or in negotiated
transactions.  Sales will be at prices that are current when the sales take place.
Selling  security holders may pay brokers' commissions. There is no present plan of
distribution.
SEC POSITION REGARDING
INDEMNIFICATION
Our Amended and Restated Certificate of
Incorporation provides for  indemnification of officers and directors to the fullest
extent permitted by  Delaware law. We have been informed that, in the opinion of the
Securities and  Exchange Commission, insofar as directors, officers or other persons who
control  us may become entitled under the provisions of our certificate of incorporation
to indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933,  that
indemnification is against public policy as expressed in that Act and is  therefore
unenforceable.
We have in force a directors' and officers'
liability insurance policy insuring,  up to specified amounts and with specified
exceptions, our directors and  officers and our former directors and officers against
liabilities. The effect  of the policy is to indemnify those persons against losses
incurred by them  while acting in those capacities.
3
PART II
Item 3.  Incorporation of Documents by
Reference.
The following documents are incorporated by
reference in this registration  statement:
•
our
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended  December 31, 2003;
•
our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal
      quarter ended March 31, 2004;
•
the
description of our Series A Common Stock contained in our  registration statement on Form
8-A/A filed on July 14, 1998, as  that description has been altered by amendment or
reports filed  for the purpose of updating that description; and
•
all
other reports we filed pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934 since December 31, 2003.
When we file documents in accordance with
Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 and 15(d) of  the Exchange Act between the date of this
registration statement and the time we  file a post-effective amendment to the
registration statement saying all the  securities which are the subject of that
registration statement have been sold  or deregistering any securities which have not
been sold, the documents we file  will be incorporated into this registration statement
and will be a part of it  beginning on the date the documents are filed. If any document
which we file  changes anything said in this registration statement or in an earlier
document  which is incorporated into this registration statement, the later document will
modify or supersede what is said in this registration statement or the earlier  document.
You may request a copy of these filings at no
cost, other than exhibits to those  documents which are not specifically incorporated by
reference, by writing or  telephoning us at the following address: Hearst-Argyle
Television, Inc., 888  Seventh Avenue, New York, New York 10106, Attention: Office of the
General  Counsel, telephone number (212) 887-6800.
Item 4.  Description of Securities.
Not applicable.
Item 5.  Interests of Named Experts and
Counsel.
Not applicable.
Item 6.  Indemnification of Directors and
Officers.
Our Amended and Restated Certificate of
Incorporation provides for  indemnification of officers and directors to the fullest
extent permitted by  Delaware law. We maintain liability insurance insuring our officers
and  directors against liabilities that they may incur in such capacities, including
certain liabilities arising under the Federal securities laws. Our directors and
officers may be entitled to additional indemnification under Section 145 of the  Delaware
General Corporation Law.
Item 7.  Exemption from Registration Claimed.
Not Applicable.
II-1
Item 8.  Exhibits.
The following documents are filed with this
registration statement:
4.1
Amended
and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of  Hearst-Argyle Television, Inc.,
(incorporated by reference to  Appendix C to the Company's Form S-4 (File No.
333-32487)), as  amended by the Certificate of Amendment to the Amended and  Restated
Certificate of Incorporation of Hearst-Argyle  Television, Inc. (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 3.3 of  the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December
31,  1998).
4.2
Amended
and  Restated  Bylaws of  Hearst-Argyle  Television,  Inc.  (incorporated  by reference
to Exhibit 3.2 of the  Company's Form S-4 (File No. 333-72207)).
5.1
Opinion
of Clifford Chance US LLP.
23.1
Consent
of Clifford Chance US LLP (included in opinion filed as Exhibit 5.1).
23.2
Consent
of Deloitte & Touche LLP.
24.1
Powers
of Attorney (included on the signature pages of this registration statement).
99.1
Hearst-Argyle
Television, Inc. Amended and Restated 1997 Stock Option Plan.
Item 9.  Undertakings.
(a)
The
      undersigned registrant hereby undertakes:
(1) To file,
during any period in which offers or sales are being made,  a post-effective amendment to
this registration statement to include any  material information with respect to the plan
of distribution not previously  disclosed in the registration statement or any material
change to such  information in the registration statement.
(2) That, for the
purpose of determining any liability under the  Securities Act of 1933, each such
post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be  a new registration statement relating to
the securities offered therein, and the  offering of such securities at that time shall
be deemed to be the initial bona  fide offering thereof.
(3) To remove from
registration by means of a post-effective amendment  any of the securities being
registered which remain unsold at the termination of  the offering.
(b)
The
      undersigned registrant hereby undertakes that, for purposes of determining
      any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each filing of the registrant's
      annual report pursuant to Section 13(a) or Section 15(d) of the Securities
      Exchange Act of 1934 that is incorporated by reference in the registration
      statement shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to
      the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that
      time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
(c)
Insofar
      as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933
      may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the registrant
      pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the registrant has been
      advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such
      indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is,
      therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification
      against such liabilities (other
II-2
than the payment by the
      registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling
      person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or
      proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person
      in connection with the securities being registered, the registrant will,
      unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling
      precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether
      such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the
      Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
II-3
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the
requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the  registrant certifies that it has
reasonable grounds to believe that it meets all  of the requirements for filing on Form
S-8 and has duly caused this registration  statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly  authorized, in the City of New York, State of New York, on
this 5th day of May,  2004.
HEARST-ARGYLE TELEVISION, INC.
By:
/s/ David J. Barrett
David J. Barrett
President and Chief Executive Officer
II-4
POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN AND WOMEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that
each person whose signature  appears below constitutes and appoints each of Jonathan C.
Mintzer, Steven A.  Hobbs and Susan C. Shelton his or her true and lawful
attorney-in-fact and  agent, with full powers of substitution to sign for him or her and
in his or her  name any or all amendments (including post-effective amendments) to the
registration statement to which this power of attorney is attached.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities
Act of 1933, this registration  statement has been signed by the following persons in the
capacities and on the  dates indicated.
Signature
Title
Date
/s/ David J. Barrett
David J. Barrett
President,
Chief Executive Officer and
Chairman of the Board
(Principal Executive Officer)
May 5, 2004
/s/ Harry T. Hawks
Harry T. Hawks
Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
May 5, 2004
/s/ Victor F. Ganzi
Victor F. Ganzi
Chairman of the Board
May 5, 2004
/s/ Frank A. Bennack, Jr.
Frank A. Bennack, Jr.
Director
May 5, 2004
/s/ John G. Conomikes
John G. Conomikes
Director
May 5, 2004
/s/ Ken J. Elkins
Ken J. Elkins
Director
May 5, 2004
George R. Hearst, Jr.
Director
May 5, 2004
/s/ William R. Hearst III
William R. Hearst III
Director
May 5, 2004
/s/ Bob Marbut
Bob Marbut
Director
May 5, 2004
/s/ Gilbert C. Maurer
Gilbert C. Maurer
Director
May 5, 2004
II-5
/s/ Michael E. Pulitzer
Michael E. Pulitzer
Director
May 5, 2004
/s/ David Pulver
David Pulver
Director
May 5, 2004
Virginia H. Randt
Director
May 5, 2004
/s/ Caroline L. Williams
Caroline L. Williams
Director
May 5, 2004
II-6
INDEX TO EXHIBITS
Exhibit
Number
Exhibit
4.1
Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation
      of Hearst-Argyle Television, Inc., (incorporated by reference to Appendix
      C to the Company's Form S-4 (File No. 333-32487)), as amended by the
      Certificate of Amendment to the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation
      of Hearst-Argyle Television, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
      3.3 of the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31,
      1998).
4.2
Amended
and Restated Bylaws of Hearst-Argyle  Television,  Inc.  (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 3.2 of the Company's Form S-4 (File No. 333-72207)).
5.1
Opinion
of Clifford Chance US LLP.
23.1
Consent
of Clifford Chance US LLP (included in opinion filed as Exhibit 5.1).
23.2
Consent
of Deloitte & Touche LLP.
24.1
Powers
of Attorney (included on the signature pages of this registration statement).
99.1
Hearst-Argyle
Television, Inc. Amended and Restated 1997 Stock Option Plan.