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1980

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The Modern Hollywood Blockbuster

Universal released iconic films like E.T. The Extra Terrestrial, and Back to the Future – ushering in an era of “high concept”, easily marketable filmmaking. In addition, under the creative leadership of president Brandon Tartikoff, NBC became a trailblazer in TV programming with the launch of CNBC in 1989.

1981

Landmark series Hill Street Blues is introduced on NBC

Landmark series Hill Street Blues is introduced on NBC

During the seven-season run, Hill Street Blues won 26 Emmys with 98 Emmy nominations, making the show one of TV's most-honored programs.

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NBC Introduces TV's First LGBTQ+ Lead Character

In Love, Sidney, Tony Randall starred as Sidney Shorr, American television's first gay lead character.

1982

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Universal releases E.T. The Extra Terrestrial

Directed by Steven Spielberg, the film not only soared to become the highest-grossing film of the year, capturing four Academy Awards® and nine Oscar® nominations including Best Picture, but it also captured the hearts of audiences around the globe.

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Bryant Gumbel becomes the first Black morning show anchor on network TV

Bryant Gumbel held a 15-year stint as co-host of NBC’s TODAY, becoming an influential Black voice on network TV and household name.

1983

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Tom Brokaw becomes the sole anchor of NBC Nightly News

After assuming his role as head anchor on September 5, 1983, Brokaw went on to cover historic events and conduct groundbreaking one-on-one interviews with notable political leaders of the time. He would continue to serve as anchor and managing editor of NBC’s flagship news broadcast until 2004. 

1985

BACKFOS01PS

Universal's Back to the Future premieres

The time-traveling adventure starring Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd was the highest-grossing film of the year, with $381 million in box-office revenues. The film's popularity sparked fandom across generations, prompting Universal Parks across the world to create simulator rides dedicated to the film.

The Golden Girls debuts on NBC

The Golden Girls debuts on NBC

The breakthrough show showcased the talents of comediennes Betty White, Bea Arthur, Rue McClanahan, and Estelle Getty.  The Golden Girls was a surprise hit, as a sitcom featuring a group of women over the age of fifty was considered an uncertain bet at the time.

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Universal's Out of Africa premieres

The film was honored with seven Oscars, including Best Picture.

1986

GE buys RCA for $6.4 billion

GE buys RCA for $6.4 billion

At the time, the deal was the largest non-oil acquisition in U.S. history. Pictured here is GE executive Bob Wright, who was named the new president of NBC.

1989

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Universal's Field of Dreams premieres

The story about an Iowa farmer inspired to build a baseball diamond in his cornfield became a family favorite across generations. In 2017, the film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress.

Seinfeld

The NBC hit sitcom Seinfeld makes its debut with its pilot episode, The Seinfeld Chronicles

The program was a ratings powerhouse for NBC for many seasons, and in 1998, became only the third show ever to finish its run at the top of the Nielsen ratings.

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NBC launches The More You Know

The public service campaign addresses pressing social issues across the US like media literacy and food insecurity. The program stars recognizable figures like Steph Curry, John Legend, and more. Since its inception, The More You Know remains a trusted voice in highlighting important conversations.