The Nickelodeon Success Story

By Author: Adam Anders
Total Articles: 41
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The Nickelodeon Network is these days one of the top cable channels in America, and is possibly the most popular children's network in history. On top of that it has also be made into a huge international tv movement, with regional affiliate networks in parts of Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Russia, and more. But even though it has currently reached an astounding level of success, "Nick" as it is endearingly referred to as, is a pretty new tv network and its eventful history is quite short.

The name "Nickelodeon" was given to the network when it was bought by Viacom in 1981. Prior to that time it had been called Pinwheel, which ran from its debut in 1977 until 1981. In those days the station only ran for 6 hours a day, since children's programming was limited and viewership was low during school hours. After Viacom bought the channel, they lengthened the air time from six hours to twelve hours, from 8AM until 8PM, but the Pinwheel staff were kept in their positions.

Come 1984, Nickelodeon was dead last amongst cable networks in terms of ratings, and was over $40 million in the hole. The President ...
... of MTV Networks, the division of Viacom that ran not only MTV but also other networks like Nickelodeon, fired the staff and began a process of rebranding the network, seeking the help of some of the powerhouses behind the rise of MTV. The came up with the new "splat logo" that is used widely to promote Nickelodeon to this day; new promotional songs; new network ID segments; and new programming with the aid of new writers, producers, and animators. The network was given a full makeover and within 6 months was number 1 amongst cable networks.

It's a good thing for us that Nickelodeon was rescued. Nickelodeon offers some of the most enriching children's content there is, being both highly entertaining and subtly educational. Their shows continue to put a smile on my children's faces and teach them new things every time the watch.
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