Television · 1946
Post-War Rebirth and Network Television Milestones
In 1946, television emerged from its wartime hiatus as the BBC resumed broadcasting in Britain and American networks launched pioneering commercial programming. From the first network soap operas and game shows to historic live sports broadcasts, television began its transition into a mainstream medium.
- June 7, 1946 | BBC | UK
BBC Television Service Resumes
After shutting down during World War II, the BBC TV Service resumed broadcasting with announcer Jasmine Bligh welcoming viewers back to the airwaves.
- May 9, 1946 | NBC | USA
Hour Glass
NBC launched the first sponsored network variety show, setting the standard for commercial entertainment with musical acts and comedy skits.
- June 19, 1946 | NBC | USA
Joe Louis vs. Billy Conn Fight
NBC broadcast the heavyweight title rematch live to an estimated 100,000 viewers, demonstrating the immense public appetite for televised sports events.
- June 20, 1946 | DuMont | USA
Cash and Carry
Hosted by Dennis James, this pioneering production became network television's first sponsored game show, featuring contestants answering questions for prizes.
- October 2, 1946 | DuMont | USA
Faraway Hill
DuMont premiered the first network TV soap opera, following a grieving New York woman who moves to a rural town and finds romantic complications.
- November 1, 1946 | NBC | USA
You Are an Artist
Artist Jon Gnagy hosted television's first popular art instruction series, teaching viewers step-by-step drawing techniques live on air.
- November 2, 1946 | BBC | UK
For the Children: Muffin the Mule
Puppeteer Annette Mills introduced Muffin the Mule on BBC's children's program, creating one of British television's earliest iconic characters.
- December 27, 1946 | NBC | USA
Campus Hoopla
NBC premiered a high-energy variety show set in a fictional college malt shop, aimed directly at teen audiences with music, dancing, and sports recaps.
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