From Baird to AI: 100 Pivotal Moments That Shaped a Century of Television
As television celebrates its 100th anniversary, we reflect on the transformative journey from John Logie Baird's rudimentary demonstrations to the era of artificial intelligence hosts. This timeline captures the seismic shifts, controversies, and cultural touchstones that have defined the medium, illustrating how television evolved from a perilous experiment into a cornerstone of modern society.
The Dawn of Broadcasting: 1920s to 1940s
The story begins on 26 January 1926, when John Logie Baird unveiled television to the Royal Institution from his Soho laboratory. Using a ventriloquist dummy named Stooky Bill due to intense heat from the lighting, this demonstration laid the groundwork for everything to come. By 1936, the BBC launched the world's first regular TV service, blending government speeches with variety acts. The outbreak of the Second World War forced a shutdown in 1939, but broadcasting resumed in 1946 with the same Mickey Mouse cartoon, symbolising resilience and continuity.
Post-War Expansion and Cultural Milestones
The post-war era saw television cement its role in national life. 1947 brought the wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip, necessitating a full day of programming without sound. In 1953, the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II doubled TV licence numbers, highlighting the medium's growing influence. Landmark moments included the first televised interracial kiss in a 1955 BBC production of Othello and the debut of Coronation Street in 1960, which quickly became a cultural fixture.
Technological Leaps and Social Change
Technological advancements propelled television into new realms. 1967 marked BBC Two as Europe's first channel to broadcast regularly in colour, starting with Wimbledon coverage. The 1969 Apollo 11 moon landing, watched by an estimated 650 million people worldwide, showcased television's power to unite global audiences. Social progress was evident in 1970, with the first same-sex kiss aired during a BBC production of Edward II, followed by pioneering discussions on trans issues in 1973.
The Rise of Streaming and Digital Disruption
The turn of the millennium ushered in digital transformation. 2005 saw the launch of YouTube, beginning a shift away from traditional scheduled viewing. The BBC's iPlayer debuted in 2007, followed by Netflix's streaming service, revolutionising how content is consumed. By 2025, YouTube emerged as the most-watched streaming service globally, while Netflix experimented with AI for special effects, signalling a new frontier in production.
Controversies and Unforgettable Events
Television has not been without its scandals and shocks. The 1992 airing of Ghostwatch caused widespread panic, leading to permanent withdrawal after reports of severe psychological impacts. In 2004, Janet Jackson's Super Bowl halftime performance resulted in a $550,000 fine for CBS, highlighting ongoing debates over broadcast standards. More recently, 2021 saw an episode of Good Morning Britain break Ofcom complaint records, reflecting television's role in polarising public discourse.
Looking Ahead: AI and the Future
As television enters its second century, artificial intelligence is poised to reshape the landscape. 2025 witnessed Channel 4's Dispatches episode presented by an AI-generated host, Aisha Gaban, a pioneering move that may herald broader changes in production and presentation. With streaming dominance and innovative technologies, television continues to adapt, ensuring its relevance in an ever-evolving media ecosystem.
From humble beginnings to global phenomena, these 100 moments encapsulate television's enduring impact on entertainment, culture, and society. As we look forward, the medium's ability to innovate and connect remains undiminished, promising new chapters in its storied history.
