The three television networks, acting under severe restrictions imposed by the Iranian government, all provided comprehensive coverage of the hostage crisis. A study was conducted to examine what, if any, salient differences arose or existed in this coverage from November 5, 1979, until January 15, 1980. A research procedure combining qualitative comparative content assessment and ground theory was used to examine the running time of news stories originating from Tehran and eight subject matter categories: (1) the embassy takeover, (2) internal governmental affairs, (3) foreign relations, (4) economic conditions, (5) Iranian life and culture, (6) Islamic religion, (7) prominent individuals, and (8) outside forces affecting Iran. Videotapes of news reports were viewed twice to determine the amount of time of each report and its video information, and a third time to make an exact transcript to be used for data analysis. Results indicated that when networks were subjected to severe press restriction and behavior codes, the news items covered remained basically the same. Salient differences did exist, however, in pictorial and editing choices, running length of stories, writing, and reportorial styles. ABC delivered the most coverage, in short, fast paced reports and generally maintained a leadership role. (JL)