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The Fox Network history in television has not been plain sailing, the Fox Network was originally launched in October 1986, when the parent company TCF Holdings of 20th Century Fox sold 50 percent of its shares for $250 million to News Corporation. Once News Corporation began Broadcasting Fox, it reached 80% of households. This was, however, not sufficient compared to networks such as CBS, NBC and ABC who were reaching 97% of households. Still in its early stages, Fox had many plans, but was only broadcasting – The Late Show with Joan Rivers.
The Fox Network projected a slightly irreverent and young outlook in its broadcasting and was soon featuring The Tracy Ullman Show and Married with Children. Soon thereafter, the Simpsons was born. The Simpsons has been the longest animated comedy series in US television’s history which made television history for Fox Network as well. The next big success on Fox was America’s Most Wanted. This became the first show to feature in the top 50 on the Nielson ratings, which still retains its prime time slot. However, the ranking was still elusive when compared to the other three network broadcasters.
This changed in 1993 when the National Football League contract was given to Fox. Until then, CBS had reserved rights on the Football League and after covering one season of the National Football League, Fox was placed alongside ABC, CBS and NBC. It was called the big four thereafter. Fox soon began to target the younger audience by broadcasting soap operas at that time. Shows including Melrose Place and Beverly Hills became an integral part of the network. These shows gained the Top 25 in Nielson ratings. Fox features some of the most modern day television shows such as Bones, The Chicago Code, Cops, House, Glee, Kitchen Nightmare, Hell’s Kitchen and Traffic Light, along with its animated shows including The Simpsons, The Cleveland, Family Guy, American Dad and Bob’s Burgers.
The Fox Network, since then has gone on to give its audience shows such as King of the Hill, Family Guy and several reality shows including Joe Millionaire and the immensely popular American Idol. Fox is gearing up to feature the X Factor this fall, which is based on a British reality singing competition. Fox has never failed to entertain; the ratings speak volumes about its power to reach audiences of all ages. Fox has never been too centered on news reporting; however, it has embraced entertainment and helped brighten up the lives of its audience throughout America.
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