Television · 1997
Irreverence, Animation, and Historic Cultural Television Milestones
In 1997, television shattered taboos with landmark coming-out episodes and groundbreaking animated comedies for adults. HBO launched its edgy original drama era, while millions around the globe tuned in to watch historic live events.
- ABC | US | April 30, 1997
Ellen: The Puppy Episode
Ellen DeGeneres made television history when her character came out as gay in front of 42 million viewers.
- Comedy Central | US | August 13, 1997
South Park Premiere
Trey Parker and Matt Stone launched their paper-cutout animated comedy, pushing the boundaries of cable television satire.
- The WB | US | March 10, 1997
Buffy the Vampire Slayer Premiere
Joss Whedon brought his witty teen horror-drama to television, instantly creating a cult-classic franchise.
- HBO | US | July 12, 1997
Oz Premiere
HBO premiered its gritty, hour-long prison drama, laying the foundation for the golden age of prestige cable television.
- BBC / Global Broadcast | Sept 6, 1997
Funeral of Diana, Princess of Wales
An estimated 2.5 billion people worldwide watched the heartbreaking global television broadcast of Princess Diana's funeral service.
- TV Tokyo | Japan | April 1, 1997
Pokémon Anime Premiere
Ash Ketchum and Pikachu made their television debut in Japan, launching a global animated franchise.
- Fox | US | January 12, 1997
King of the Hill Premiere
Mike Judge and Greg Daniels debuted their grounded animated sitcom following the lives of the Hill family in Arlen, Texas.
- BBC Two | UK | March 31, 1997
Teletubbies Premiere
BBC introduced a vibrant, surreal preschool series that unexpectedly turned into an international pop-culture phenomenon.
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