Celebrating 120 Years of Television: A Retrospective by Variety

Variety has chronicled the television industry since its inception in the late 1920s, initially referring to it as “radio movies.” The term "television" first appeared in the publication on January 12, 1927, where it was described as a means for audiences to view broadcasting artists from the comfort of their homes, regardless of distance from the broadcasting station. This early recognition of television's potential marked the beginning of a long-standing relationship between the publication and the evolving medium.

Rare TV Ads From 120 Years of Variety: ‘I Love Lucy,’ ‘Star Trek,’ ‘Square Pegs,’ ‘The Golden Girls,’ ‘Freaks and Geeks’ and More

Throughout its history, Variety has documented significant developments in television, from the technological advancements made by pioneers like Philo T. Farnsworth, Vladimir Zworykin, and John Logie Baird, to the rise of iconic television shows and networks. The publication has celebrated the transformative impact of television on entertainment and culture, showcasing advertisements for notable series and personalities since 1949. This retrospective coincides with Variety's 120th anniversary, highlighting the publication's commitment to covering the television landscape.

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In the current era, marked by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, the television industry continues to evolve. Variety emphasizes the importance of recognizing the foundational work of early inventors who made it possible for images to be transmitted and viewed in homes. This ongoing transformation reflects the dynamic nature of television, which has adapted to changing technologies and audience preferences over the decades.

Rare TV Ads From 120 Years of Variety: ‘I Love Lucy,’ ‘Star Trek,’ ‘Square Pegs,’ ‘The Golden Girls,’ ‘Freaks and Geeks’ and More

In conjunction with its anniversary celebration, Variety has released a gallery of advertisements that illustrate the rich history of television. The publication notes that while some may dismiss television as “a medium because it is neither rare nor well done,” the extensive collection of advertisements serves to counter this notion, showcasing the creativity and impact of television programming.

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Despite the celebration of television's achievements, some critics argue that the medium has not always lived up to its potential. Concerns about the quality of content and the influence of commercial interests on programming have been raised. Critics suggest that while television has the capacity for greatness, it often falls short due to various industry pressures.

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• “Television is a process of making possible the viewing of a broadcasting artist in one’s own home no matter how far away the broadcasting station may be.” — Variety, January 12, 1927

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• “ It’s a great line, but the ensuing pages prove otherwise.” — Variety, regarding Fred Allen's quip about television.

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As Variety reflects on its 120-year history, it underscores the significance of television as a cultural force. The publication's ongoing coverage will continue to document the industry's evolution, celebrating both its triumphs and addressing its challenges.

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