Ep 1. Raised on Television

The Eighties is a documentary series that explores the pop culture, politics, and events of the 1980s. In season 1 episode 1, titled "Raised on Television," viewers are taken on a journey through the transformative decade that saw television become a ubiquitous part of American life.

The episode begins by examining the impact of television in the 1980s. It shows how television became a cultural touchstone for Americans, shaping their attitudes and beliefs about everything from politics to fashion. The episode features interviews with historians, pop culture commentators, and cultural figures from the 1980s, each providing their own insights into the era.

The episode goes on to explore the various genres of television programming that dominated the 1980s. From sitcoms to dramas, game shows to talk shows, the episode showcases the diversity of programming that was available during this time. It also highlights the stars of these shows, from the iconic Betty White to the suave William Shatner, and how they became cultural icons.

The episode then delves into the phenomenon of TV kids, or child stars who became famous through starring roles in television shows. The episode explores the ups and downs of these kids' lives, including the challenges they faced in growing up in the public eye and the impact their roles had on their later careers. Some of the child stars featured include the cast of The Cosby Show, Alf, and Family Ties.

Next, the episode explores the impact of cable television, which exploded in popularity during the 1980s. The episode showcases how cable television allowed for more niche programming and how it paved the way for the cable news networks that dominate the airwaves today. It also explores the impact of music videos on cable television, which became a major new form of entertainment during the 1980s.

The episode ends with a look at some of the notable events that were broadcast on television during the 1980s, including the explosion of the Challenger space shuttle and the fall of the Berlin Wall. These events were watched by millions of Americans and had a profound impact on the cultural psyche of the time. The episode explores how television became the primary medium for both capturing and shaping these events.

Overall, "Raised on Television" is an engaging, informative, and entertaining look at the impact of television on American culture during the 1980s. With its top-notch production values and expert insights, the episode makes a compelling case for the importance of television during this transformative decade in American history.