1948 Television Network Schedules: The Early Era of ABC, CBS, NBC, and DuMont
The year 1948 marked a pivotal moment in broadcasting history as the American television landscape began to solidify. During this period, four major networks—ABC (American Broadcasting Company), CBS (Columbia Broadcasting System), NBC (National Broadcasting Company), and DMN (DuMont Television Network)—competed to define the medium. Programming was a fragmented mix of local broadcasts and emerging network series, often shifting by season.
At this stage, television was transitioning from experimental broadcasts to structured schedules. Networks relied heavily on local programming to fill gaps, while introducing the first wave of variety shows, newsreels, and sporting events that would set the template for decades to come.
ไม่มีภาพประกอบ
Key Facts
- ABC began regular broadcasting in April 1948, launching Hollywood Screen Test as its first network series.
- CBS entered the network arena in May 1948, premiering Toast of the Town (later known as The Ed Sullivan Show) on June 20, 1948.
- DuMont (DMN) aired The Original Amateur Hour on Sundays starting January 18, 1948.
- NBC utilized a mix of newsreels, such as The Esso Newsreel, and sports coverage, including Major League Baseball (MLB).
- News programming was highly iterative, with shows like Camera Headlines and NBC Television Newsreel frequently replacing one another.
Network Programming Breakdown
Sunday: The Rise of Variety
Sundays were characterized by the launch of cornerstone variety programs. While ABC focused on Hollywood Screen Test and CBS introduced the legendary Toast of the Town, DuMont established its presence with The Original Amateur Hour. NBC balanced its schedule with Television Playhouse and various specials.
Weeknights: News, Quizzes, and Drama
From Monday to Friday, the networks focused on a blend of information and entertainment. News was a primary driver, with CBS Television News and Face the Music airing weekdays at 7:30 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. respectively during the late spring.
ABC introduced a consistent block of News and Views at 7:00 p.m. starting in August, followed by diverse offerings like Kiernan's Corner and Quizzing the News. DuMont leaned into children's programming with the Small Fry Club and specialized content like Boxing from Jamaica Arena.
NBC's weekday lineup featured high-profile entries such as Meet the Press and the Kraft Television Theatre, alongside sports coverage and the Esso Newsreel (which later became the Camel Newsreel Theatre).
Saturdays: Sports and Magazines
Saturday programming was lighter, often featuring sports and magazine-style formats. ABC aired Sports with Joe Hasel, while NBC provided Television Screen Magazine.
ไม่มีภาพประกอบ
1948 Programming Summary
| Network | Notable Premiere/Show | Key Genre | Launch Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABC | Hollywood Screen Test | Network Series | April 1948 |
| CBS | Toast of the Town | Variety | June 20, 1948 |
| DMN | The Original Amateur Hour | Talent/Variety | January 18, 1948 |
| NBC | Meet the Press | News/Interview | 1948 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was ABC's first network series?
ABC's first network series was Hollywood Screen Test, which launched when the network began regular broadcasting in April 1948.
When did The Ed Sullivan Show first air?
The show premiered on June 20, 1948, under its original title, Toast of the Town, on the CBS network.
What happened to The Esso Newsreel on NBC?
During the winter of 1948, The Esso Newsreel was replaced by the NBC Television Newsreel, which eventually became the Camel Newsreel Theatre.
Which show was known as both Birthday Party and King Cole's Birthday Party?
King Cole's Birthday Party, which debuted on May 15, 1947, on WABD in New York City before expanding to the full DuMont network by early 1948, was also known simply as Birthday Party.
What was the role of local programming in 1948?
Local programming served as a critical filler for all networks, occupying significant portions of the daily schedule between network-wide broadcasts.