Jennifer Porst

Very Special Episodes explores various examples of the “very special episode” to chart the history of American television and its self-identified status as an arbiter of culture. Through the study of this unique television format, this anthology traces the history of television’s engagement with many of the most important political, aesthetic, economic, and social movements that continue to challenge our society today.

Broadcasting Hollywood uses extensive archival research to analyze the tensions and synergies between the film and television industries in the early years of television. It draws parallels to today and the introduction of digital media to highlight how history can play a key role in helping media industry scholars and practitioners understand and navigate contemporary industrial phenomena.
 

Very Special Episodes explores various examples of the “very special episode” to chart the history of American television and its self-identified status as an arbiter of culture. Through the study of this unique television format, this anthology traces the history of television’s engagement with many of the most important political, aesthetic, economic, and social movements that continue to challenge our society today.