This Will Warm Your Soul: The Wizard of Oz First Broadcast Ignites a Timeless Tradition of Family Joy

Quick Smiles:

• The Wizard of Oz captivated over half of America in its very first television broadcast
• Decades later, the annual showing remains a beloved family tradition
• Wholesome storytelling that continues to unite generations across the country

Seventy years ago today, The Wizard of Oz debuted on television screens across the nation, captivating an astonishing 53 percent of all U.S. viewers in a single evening. The heartwarming tale of Dorothy, Toto, and their friends on the yellow brick road instantly became a cultural touchstone, proving that uplifting stories have the power to bring people together.

CBS recognized the magic early on and brought the film back three years later during the holiday season, drawing an even larger audience than before. The network’s decision cemented the tradition of annual airings, giving families a reliable source of wholesome entertainment year after year.

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