What is the informal term used to describe the three major commercial broadcast television networks in the United States during the "network era" (1950s-1980s)?

The informal term used to describe the three major commercial broadcast television networks in the United States from the 1950s to the 1980s, during the network era, is the "Big Three." These networks were NBC (National Broadcasting Company), CBS (Columbia Broadcasting System), and ABC (American Broadcasting Company).

Which four networks are collectively referred to as the "Big Four" in American television, and when did this term become relevant?

The "Big Four" refers to the original "Big Three" networks (NBC, CBS, ABC) plus the Fox Broadcasting Company. This expanded group became relevant after Fox launched in 1986 and grew to become a competitive fourth network, leading to the term "Big Four" being used to encompass them.

What were the original names and common nicknames for the three major broadcast television networks that formed the "Big Three"?

The three major broadcast television networks were NBC, known as the National Broadcasting Company and nicknamed "the Peacock Network"; CBS, the Columbia Broadcasting System, known as "the Eye Network"; and ABC, the American Broadcasting Company, nicknamed "the Alphabet Network."

How did the American Broadcasting Company (ABC) originate from the National Broadcasting Company (NBC)?

The American Broadcasting Company (ABC) originated when the U.S. government determined that NBC's two-network structure (the Red Network and the Blue Network) was anticompetitive. NBC was forced to sell one of its networks, and it chose to sell the Blue Network operations, which eventually became ABC.

When did commercial television broadcasting officially begin in the United States, and which networks were among the first to start?

Commercial television broadcasts were allowed by the Federal Communications Commission starting on July 1, 1941. NBC and CBS were among the first networks to begin commercial operations in 1941, followed by ABC in 1948.

Besides the "Big Three," what network was a significant player in early American television, and what happened to it?

Besides the "Big Three," the DuMont Television Network was a smaller fourth network that launched in 1944. However, DuMont ceased regular programming in 1955.

How did the major television networks establish nationwide coverage in the early years of commercial broadcasting?

The major networks quickly affiliated with local television stations across the United States. By the late 1950s, they had established affiliations with stations covering almost the entire country, though in markets with few stations, affiliates often carried programming from multiple networks.

What was the Mutual Broadcasting System's involvement with television, and what was the outcome?

The Mutual Broadcasting System, a major radio network, briefly considered launching its own television network in the early 1950s. Plans were announced for a five-station "Mutual Television Network," but it ultimately failed shortly after its conception, and Mutual never became long-term associated with a successful television network.

What event marked the emergence of a competitive fourth network in American television, and which network was it?

The launch of the Fox Broadcasting Company in October 1986 marked the emergence of a competitive fourth television network. Fox was founded using assets from the former DuMont network, which had become Metromedia.

What factors contributed to Fox's rise to major network status in the mid-1990s?

Fox rose to major network status in 1994 due to the implementation of "must-carry" rules, which allowed its affiliates to be included on cable lineups. This was further bolstered by an affiliation deal with New World Communications and the acquisition of National Football League broadcast rights.

How did Fox compare to the established "Big Three" networks in terms of ratings and demographics during the 2000s and early 2010s?

Fox surpassed ABC and NBC in ratings during primetime hours and became the second most-watched network behind CBS during the 2000s. From 2004 to 2012, and again from 2020 to 2021, Fox dominated the lucrative 18-49 age demographic, largely due to its NFL coverage and the popularity of "American Idol."

In what ways does Fox's programming schedule differ from that of the traditional "Big Three" networks?

Fox differs from the Big Three by offering less weekday programming. It lacks national morning and evening news programs, does not provide extensive news content for its broadcast network beyond a weekly analysis show and limited special breaking news reports, and does not feature daytime programming or late-night talk shows.

Which two networks were launched in 1995 with the aim of competing with the established networks, and what eventually happened to them?

The WB and UPN were launched in 1995 as new networks aiming to compete with the established broadcasters. Both struggled with viewership and financial losses, leading their parent companies to shut them down and jointly launch The CW in 2006.

What was The WB 100+ Station Group, and what was its purpose?

The WB 100+ Station Group was a programming service launched by The WB in 1998. It was primarily intended for smaller markets, offering network programming to areas where a traditional WB affiliate might not have been viable.

What kind of programming did The WB and UPN primarily offer, and what was a notable exception for UPN?

Both The WB and UPN mainly aired prime time and children's programming. UPN also aired sports programming, including the XFL and "WWF SmackDown!."

How did The CW television network come into existence?

The CW television network was jointly launched in 2006 by the parent companies of The WB and UPN, Time Warner and CBS Corporation, respectively. This occurred after both The WB and UPN were shut down due to struggles with viewership and financial losses.

Which series, originally from The WB, continued its run on The CW until its finale in 2020?

The series "Supernatural," originally from The WB, continued its run on The CW until its finale in 2020.

What significant change occurred regarding the ownership of The CW in October 2022?

In October 2022, Nexstar Media Group acquired a 75% ownership stake in The CW. The former joint owners, Paramount (successor to CBS Corporation) and Warner Bros. Discovery (successor to Time Warner), retained a 25% stake.

Under Nexstar's ownership, how has The CW's programming strategy evolved?

Under Nexstar's ownership, The CW has begun to broaden its programming to include national news, primarily through collaborations with Nexstar-owned NewsNation, and has also expanded its sports programming offerings.

What was MyNetworkTV, when was it launched, and what is its current status?

MyNetworkTV was launched by Fox in 2006, initially featuring a lineup of English-language telenovelas. It later shifted towards unscripted programs and movies, but due to persistent low ratings, it was converted into a syndication service in 2009, primarily carrying acquired programming.

What was Pax TV, and what did it eventually become?

Pax TV, launched in 1998 by Paxson Communications, was an attempted seventh broadcast network. It later rebranded to i: Independent Television in 2005 and was renamed Ion Television in 2007.

Why is PBS not considered one of the "Big" television networks?

PBS is not considered a "Big" network because it operates as a noncommercial service with a unique distribution model where its member stations essentially own the network. This differs from the traditional model where a network owns some stations and affiliates with others.

What was the estimated collective market share of the "Big Four" broadcast networks by 2007?

By 2007, the collective market share of the "Big Four" broadcast networks was estimated at a combined 32%.

What factors have contributed to the decline in market share for the major broadcast networks in the 21st century?

Competition from other broadcast networks (like Ion Television, The CW, MyNetworkTV), Spanish-language networks (Univision, UniMás, Telemundo), national cable and satellite channels (TNT, ESPN, AMC), and streaming services like Netflix have all contributed to the decline in market share for the major broadcast networks.

How are the "Big Four" networks structured in terms of ownership today, and what does this enable?

Each of the "Big Four" networks is now owned by a large media conglomerate. This ownership structure allows for corporate synergy with various cable channels, major film studios, companion streaming services, and other sibling media assets.

Which media conglomerate currently owns NBC, and what are some of its other major assets?

NBC is owned by NBCUniversal, a Comcast company. Some of NBCUniversal's other major assets include Universal Pictures, Peacock, Universal Destinations & Experiences, E!, MSNBC, and Golf Channel.

Which media conglomerate owns CBS and The CW, and what are some of its key holdings?

CBS and The CW are owned by Paramount Skydance. Their holdings include Paramount Pictures, MTV, Showtime, Nickelodeon, and Paramount+, among others. The CW is jointly owned with Warner Bros. Discovery and Nexstar Media.

Who owns the American Broadcasting Company (ABC), and what are some of its parent company's other significant media properties?

The American Broadcasting Company (ABC) is owned by The Walt Disney Company. Disney's extensive assets include Disney Experiences, Disney Channel, Walt Disney Pictures, 20th Century Studios, ESPN, Disney+, and Hulu.

Who owns the Fox and MyNetworkTV networks, and what other media outlets are part of this conglomerate?

Fox and MyNetworkTV are owned by Fox Corporation. This conglomerate's assets include Fox News, Tubi, and Fox Sports, among others.

What is the "network era" of American television?

The "network era" of American television refers to the period, roughly from the 1950s to the 1980s, when a small number of major broadcast networks (initially the "Big Three": NBC, CBS, and ABC) dominated television programming and viewership.

What was the role of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the formation of ABC?

The FCC played a crucial role by determining that NBC's two-network structure was anticompetitive. This ruling compelled NBC to divest one of its networks, leading to the creation of ABC from the former NBC Blue Network.

How did the DuMont Television Network's origins differ from the "Big Three" networks?

Unlike the "Big Three" networks (NBC, CBS, ABC), which originated as radio networks, DuMont Television Network did not have a corresponding radio network.

What was the NTA Film Network, and when did it operate?

The NTA Film Network was a television network that operated from 1956 to 1961. It was unusual because its programming, which was entirely pre-recorded, was distributed by mail rather than through traditional broadcast wires.

What is the significance of the "must-carry" rules in relation to Fox's rise to prominence?

The "must-carry" rules, which took effect in 1994, allowed Fox affiliates to be included on cable lineups. This was a significant factor in Fox's ability to rise to major network status by ensuring its programming reached a wider audience.

What was the primary reason cited for Fox's dominance in the 18-49 demographic between 2004 and 2012?

The primary reason cited for Fox's dominance in the 18-49 demographic during that period was the success of its National Football League (NFL) coverage and its top-rated prime time program, "American Idol."

What is the "Big Four" designation, and how does it differ from the "Big Three"?

The "Big Four" designation includes the original "Big Three" networks (NBC, CBS, ABC) plus the Fox Broadcasting Company. It acknowledges Fox's emergence as a competitive network alongside the long-established ones, often used when discussing overall network dominance or market share.

What is the "network era" in American television, and which networks were dominant during this period?

The "network era" refers to the period from the 1950s to the 1980s when a few major commercial broadcast television networks, primarily NBC, CBS, and ABC (the "Big Three"), dominated the television landscape, controlling the vast majority of programming and viewership.

How did the launch of Fox Broadcasting Company in 1986 impact the established television landscape?

The launch of Fox Broadcasting Company in 1986 introduced a viable fourth competitive network into the American television market, challenging the long-standing dominance of the "Big Three" (NBC, CBS, ABC).

What is the current ownership structure of the major broadcast networks in the United States?

Currently, each of the major broadcast networks (NBC, CBS, ABC, Fox) is owned by a large media conglomerate, facilitating corporate synergy across various media assets like cable channels, film studios, and streaming services.

What role did the U.S. government play in the creation of the American Broadcasting Company (ABC)?

The U.S. government, through an antitrust ruling, mandated that NBC divest one of its radio networks. This led to the sale of NBC's Blue Network, which subsequently became the American Broadcasting Company (ABC).

What were the "Big Three" networks' primary sources of programming during the network era?

During the network era, the "Big Three" networks (NBC, CBS, and ABC) were the primary sources for hit television series and successful commercial telecasts of major feature films, controlling virtually all top-rated programming.

How did the "Big Four" networks' market share change in the 21st century?

In the 21st century, the "Big Four" networks have seen their collective market share decline significantly, estimated at 32% by 2007, due to increased competition from various sources.

What types of media competition have contributed to the decline of the major broadcast networks' market share?

Competition from other broadcast networks, Spanish-language networks, national cable and satellite channels, and streaming services like Netflix have all contributed to the decline in market share for the major broadcast networks.

What is the significance of the "network era" in relation to the dominance of NBC, CBS, and ABC?

The "network era" signifies a period where NBC, CBS, and ABC held near-monopolistic control over television programming, airing virtually all successful shows and major film telecasts, thus defining the television landscape for decades.

How did the acquisition of NFL broadcast rights impact the Fox Broadcasting Company?

The acquisition of National Football League broadcast rights was a key factor in the Fox Broadcasting Company's rise to major network status, significantly boosting its viewership and affiliate base.

What is the difference between the "Big Three" and the "Big Four" in American television terminology?

The "Big Three" refers to the original dominant networks (NBC, CBS, ABC) that controlled television for decades. The "Big Four" includes these three plus the Fox Broadcasting Company, acknowledging Fox's emergence as a major competitive network.

What was the primary reason for the creation of The CW television network?

The CW television network was created as a merger of The WB and UPN networks, which were both struggling financially and with viewership. The goal was to combine resources and create a more competitive entity.

How did the DuMont Television Network's assets contribute to the formation of Fox Broadcasting Company?

After DuMont ceased operations, its assets were acquired by Metromedia, which were then subsequently acquired by News Corporation. These assets formed the foundation for the launch of the Fox Broadcasting Company in 1986.

What distinguishes PBS from the "Big Three" or "Big Four" networks?

PBS is distinguished by its noncommercial operational status and its ownership structure, where member stations own the network, unlike the commercial "Big Three" and "Big Four" networks which are owned by large media conglomerates.

Big Three American Television Wiki: Giants of the Airwaves: The Saga of American Television Networks

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Origins: From Radio to Television

Radio Roots

The genesis of the major American television networks lies in the burgeoning radio industry of the 1920s. NBC (National Broadcasting Company) and CBS (Columbia Broadcasting System) were established as radio networks, with NBC initially operating two distinct national networks: the premium "Red Network" and the more accessible "Blue Network." These entities laid the groundwork for their eventual transition into the visual medium of television.

Regulatory Reshaping

In 1943, a U.S. government determination of anticompetitive practices forced NBC to divest one of its radio networks. The Blue Network was sold, ultimately evolving into the American Broadcasting Company (ABC). This regulatory intervention significantly shaped the competitive landscape, setting the stage for the three primary commercial broadcast networks that would dominate television for decades.

Early Television Ventures

Commercial television broadcasting received the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) approval on July 1, 1941. NBC and CBS commenced their television operations that year, followed by ABC in 1948. The DuMont Television Network also emerged in 1944, initially as a fourth player. While these networks began with limited local stations, they rapidly expanded their reach through affiliations, covering most of the United States by the late 1950s.

The Dominant Trio: The Big Three

NBC: The Peacock Network

The National Broadcasting Company, colloquially known as NBC, established itself as a cornerstone of American television. Its iconic peacock logo became synonymous with quality programming and broad reach throughout the network era.

CBS: The Eye Network

Columbia Broadcasting System, or CBS, was another titan of the broadcast industry. Its distinctive "Eye" logo symbolized its pervasive presence in American homes, delivering news, entertainment, and cultural touchstones.

ABC: The Alphabet Network

The American Broadcasting Company, ABC, completed the triumvirate. Emerging from the divestiture of NBC's Blue Network, ABC carved out its own significant niche, often challenging its rivals in viewership and programming innovation.

The Fourth Contender: Fox Emerges

Challenging the Status Quo

For decades, the "Big Three" networks operated with minimal competition. This paradigm shifted significantly in October 1986 with the launch of the Fox Broadcasting Company. Acquiring assets from the defunct DuMont network and later Metromedia, Fox, under News Corporation, began its ascent.

Ascending to Major Network Status

Fox's rise to major network status was solidified by strategic moves, including affiliation deals with New World Communications and securing National Football League (NFL) broadcast rights. These factors, coupled with must-carry rules that ensured its presence on cable lineups, allowed Fox to challenge and often surpass established networks in primetime ratings, particularly in the lucrative 18-49 demographic.

Differentiating Factors

While achieving significant ratings success, Fox maintained a different operational model compared to the Big Three. It offered a more limited weekday programming schedule, notably lacking national morning and evening news programs. Its news division primarily served cable and radio operations, with broadcast network content restricted to a weekly news analysis program and occasional breaking news reports.

Shifting Tides: Eras of Television

The Network Era (c. 1950s–1980s)

This period was characterized by the overwhelming dominance of the Big Three networks. They controlled the vast majority of viewership, dictating popular culture and news dissemination. Every major hit series and successful film broadcast was typically aired by one of these networks.

Multi-Channel Transition (1980s–1990s)

The introduction of Fox and the expansion of cable and satellite television began to fragment the audience. This era saw the initial decline in the market share of the traditional broadcast networks as viewers gained more choices.

Post-Network Era (1999–Present)

The turn of the millennium ushered in the "post-network era," marked by the rise of digital multicast networks, specialty channels, and eventually, streaming services. This intensified competition further eroded the market share of the major broadcast networks, leading to a more diverse and complex media ecosystem.

Fox: A New Paradigm

The Searchlight Network

Fox Broadcasting Company, often referred to as the "Searchlight Network," emerged as a significant force, challenging the established order. Its programming strategy, often targeting younger demographics and featuring edgier content, resonated with a substantial audience.

Ratings and Demographics

Fox achieved notable success, becoming the second most-watched network during the 2000s and even reaching first place in the 2007-08 season. Its dominance in the 18-49 age demographic, driven by hits like American Idol and NFL coverage, positioned it as a formidable competitor.

Distinctive Programming Approach

Unlike the Big Three, Fox did not offer extensive weekday daytime programming or late-night talk shows. Its focus remained primarily on primetime and sports, differentiating its schedule and operational model within the broadcast landscape.

PBS: The Public Alternative

Non-Commercial Broadcasting

The Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), established in 1970, operates on a fundamentally different model. As a noncommercial service, it is owned by its member stations, distinguishing it from the commercial networks that rely on advertising revenue and affiliate ownership structures.

Educational and Cultural Mission

PBS primarily focuses on educational, cultural, and informational programming, serving as a vital resource for public discourse and lifelong learning. Its programming is distinct from the entertainment-driven schedules of commercial broadcasters.

Market Share and Corporate Synergy

Erosion of Dominance

In the 21st century, the collective market share of the major broadcast networks has significantly declined. By 2007, the "Big Four" commanded only about 32% of the audience. This reduction is attributed to increased competition from other broadcast networks (like Ion Television, The CW), Spanish-language networks (Univision, Telemundo), numerous cable channels (ESPN, AMC), and the proliferation of streaming services (Netflix).

Conglomerate Ownership

Today, each of the major broadcast networks is owned by large media conglomerates. This ownership structure facilitates corporate synergy, integrating network operations with cable channels, film studios, streaming platforms, and other media assets. For example, NBCUniversal is part of Comcast, CBS and The CW are part of Paramount Global (with Warner Bros. Discovery and Nexstar Media Group involved with The CW), ABC is owned by The Walt Disney Company, and Fox Corporation owns Fox and MyNetworkTV.

Further Exploration: Related Topics

Key Areas of Interest

To deepen your understanding of American television, consider exploring these related subjects:

Network Era: The historical period defined by the dominance of major broadcast networks.
Television Affiliates: The local stations that carry network programming.
Fourth Television Network: The concept and history of networks challenging the established "Big Three."
Cable and Satellite Television: The evolution of alternative distribution methods.
Digital Television Transition: The shift from analog to digital broadcasting standards.
Media Conglomerates: The structure of modern media ownership and its implications.

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This content has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence model and is intended for educational and informational purposes only. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the provided source material, the information reflects a snapshot of data and may not encompass all nuances or the most current developments.

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Giants of the Airwaves

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Origins: From Radio to Television 📻

foundational_network Radio Roots

antitrust Regulatory Reshaping

early_broadcast Early Television Ventures

The Dominant Trio: The Big Three 👑

nbc_logo NBC: The Peacock Network

cbs_logo CBS: The Eye Network

abc_logo ABC: The Alphabet Network

The Fourth Contender: Fox Emerges 🦊

new_era Challenging the Status Quo

rise_to_power Ascending to Major Network Status

unique_model Differentiating Factors

Shifting Tides: Eras of Television ⏳

network_era The Network Era (c. 1950s–1980s)

multi_channel Multi-Channel Transition (1980s–1990s)

post_network Post-Network Era (1999–Present)

Fox: A New Paradigm 🌟

fox_logo The Searchlight Network

ratings_success Ratings and Demographics

programming_differences Distinctive Programming Approach

PBS: The Public Alternative 🏛️

pbs_logo Non-Commercial Broadcasting

educational_focus Educational and Cultural Mission

Market Share and Corporate Synergy 📊

declining_share Erosion of Dominance

media_conglomerates Conglomerate Ownership

Further Exploration: Related Topics 🔗

related_topics Key Areas of Interest

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Origins: From Radio to Television

Radio Roots

Regulatory Reshaping

Early Television Ventures

The Dominant Trio: The Big Three

NBC: The Peacock Network

CBS: The Eye Network

ABC: The Alphabet Network

The Fourth Contender: Fox Emerges

Challenging the Status Quo

Ascending to Major Network Status

Differentiating Factors

Shifting Tides: Eras of Television

The Network Era (c. 1950s–1980s)

Multi-Channel Transition (1980s–1990s)

Post-Network Era (1999–Present)

Fox: A New Paradigm

The Searchlight Network

Ratings and Demographics

Distinctive Programming Approach

PBS: The Public Alternative

Non-Commercial Broadcasting

Educational and Cultural Mission

Market Share and Corporate Synergy

Erosion of Dominance

Conglomerate Ownership

Further Exploration: Related Topics

Key Areas of Interest

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice