Television specials

Definition

Television specials are unique programming events that typically air outside of regular series schedules and feature extended content such as documentaries, concerts, or holiday-themed shows. These programs became significant in the mid-20th century as a way for networks to attract large audiences, often competing directly with films and other entertainment forms. By leveraging the popularity of well-known personalities and themes, television specials played a pivotal role in reshaping viewer habits and the overall landscape of the film and television industries.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Television specials gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s as networks looked for ways to differentiate their programming from films shown in theaters.
2. Many television specials featured live performances, which created a sense of event viewing, encouraging families to gather around the TV.
3. Holiday-themed television specials became a tradition, with programs like 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' and 'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer' capturing significant viewership.
4. The success of television specials led to increased investment in production quality, often involving big-name stars and elaborate sets.
5. As audiences began to favor watching events at home rather than going to theaters, television specials contributed to the decline of movie attendance during certain periods.

Review Questions

• How did television specials change the viewing habits of audiences during the mid-20th century?
  • Television specials changed viewing habits by creating event programming that attracted large audiences and encouraged families to watch together at home. These shows often featured live performances or exclusive content that could not be found in theaters, drawing viewers away from traditional film screenings. As a result, audiences became accustomed to special programming events, which altered their expectations and preferences for entertainment.
• In what ways did television specials impact the film industry’s approach to competition with television during the 1950s and 1960s?
  • Television specials forced the film industry to reevaluate its strategies in order to compete with this emerging medium. The success of these specials demonstrated that viewers were willing to engage with high-quality content on television instead of going out to see films. In response, filmmakers began creating more ambitious projects aimed at attracting audiences back to theaters, while also exploring new formats like miniseries that blurred the lines between film and television.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of television specials on the relationship between film and television industries as they evolved into the 21st century.
  • Television specials have had lasting effects on both film and television industries by establishing a culture of event viewing that continues today. The trend towards high-quality productions featuring popular stars has influenced both mediums, leading to collaborations between filmmakers and television networks. As streaming services emerge, the legacy of television specials can be seen in how these platforms create exclusive events or series that draw significant viewer interest, demonstrating how these two forms of media have continued to adapt and influence each other over time.

Related terms

variety show: A type of television program that features a mix of different entertainment segments, including musical performances, comedy sketches, and guest appearances.

miniseries: A television program that tells a story in a limited number of episodes, typically spanning several nights or weeks.

ratings: A measurement of the popularity of a television program, indicating how many viewers are watching at a given time.