1980
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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
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.
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
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.
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
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
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 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.
Universal's Out of Africa premieres
The film was honored with seven Oscars, including Best Picture.
1986
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
NBC launches CNBC
NBC's first successful foray into the new cable industry, CNBC was originally called the Consumer News and Business Channel. Today, CNBC is the world’s #1 Business News Media company with content…
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.
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.
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.
NBC News anchor Tom Brokaw exclusively covers the fall of the…
Brokaw was the only television journalist with a live satellite feed from Brandenburg Gate.
