Fox Broadcasting Company

Fox Broadcasting Company
source
Name	Fox Broadcasting Company
Country	United States
Headquarters	New York City, New York
Key people	Rupert Murdoch, Lachlan Murdoch, Charlie Collier
Launch date	October 9, 1986
Founder	Rupert Murdoch, Barry Diller
Former names	FBC

Fox Broadcasting Company. Launched on October 9, 1986, by media mogul Rupert Murdoch and executive Barry Diller, it was established as a challenger to the "Big Three" television networks: ABC, CBS, and NBC. The network quickly gained notoriety for its bold, youth-oriented programming and aggressive expansion, fundamentally altering the American television landscape. Owned by Fox Corporation following the sale of its entertainment assets to The Walt Disney Company, it remains a major force in broadcasting, news, and sports.

History

The network's creation was spearheaded by Rupert Murdoch following his acquisition of Metromedia's television stations, which formed its initial affiliate core. Under the guidance of founding CEO Barry Diller, it launched with the late-night program The Late Show Starring Joan Rivers. A pivotal early strategy involved programming only two nights a week to ease affiliate burdens, featuring shows like the groundbreaking animated series The Simpsons. Its audacious move to secure broadcast rights for NFC games from CBS in 1993 marked its arrival as a major network. Subsequent milestones include the launch of the Fox News Channel and the formation of Fox Corporation after the 21st Century Fox asset sale to Disney.

Programming

The network distinguished itself with edgy, innovative content targeting younger demographics, notably through hit series like Married... with Children, Beverly Hills, 90210, and The X-Files. Its animation domination block, led by the enduring The Simpsons, expanded with shows like Family Guy and Bob's Burgers. In unscripted television, it became a powerhouse with the global phenomenon American Idol and series such as The Masked Singer. The network has also been a leader in sports broadcasting, with its coverage of the NFL, MLB, and NASCAR.

Affiliates and distribution

Its initial affiliate group was built upon the former Metromedia stations in major markets like New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago. The network pioneered the use of secondary affiliate agreements with stations also carrying programming from The CW or MyNetworkTV. Key owned-and-operated stations include WNYW and KTTV. For national distribution, it relies on the Fox Network feed, with significant cable and satellite carriage through providers like Comcast and Dish Network. The network's expansion into digital broadcasting included the launch of the Fox multicast network Fox Weather.

Corporate structure and leadership

The network is the flagship property of Fox Corporation, chaired by Lachlan Murdoch. Day-to-day operations are overseen by CEO Charlie Collier. Key divisions include Fox Entertainment, Fox Sports Media Group, and the Fox Television Stations group. The corporate history is deeply intertwined with News Corp, from which 21st Century Fox was spun off in 2013. The 2019 asset sale to The Walt Disney Company excluded the broadcast network, Fox News, and Fox Sports, which were reconstituted under the new Fox Corporation.

Controversies and legal issues

The network has faced numerous controversies, including early battles over content standards on shows like Married... with Children, which sparked debates led by groups like the Parents Television Council. It was involved in the landmark "Fox Broadcasting Co. v. FCC" case regarding FCC indecency enforcement. Major legal settlements include the defamation lawsuit with Dominion Voting Systems against Fox News. Other notable issues include the cancellation of Firefly prompting fan outcry, and ongoing criticisms regarding the editorial stance of its sister channel, Fox News Channel.

Impact and legacy

It successfully broke the three-network oligopoly, introducing a more competitive and risk-taking model to broadcast television. Its focus on younger audiences and serialized dramas influenced programming strategies across the industry. The network's massive investment in NFL rights revolutionized sports television economics and cemented its major network status. Through its news and entertainment divisions, it has exerted considerable influence on American media and political discourse. Its program library, including iconic series like The Simpsons and The X-Files, has had a lasting global cultural impact.

Category:Television networks in the United States Category:Fox Corporation Category:Television channels and stations established in 1986