The Public Broadcasting Service website describes its mission in three ways: to be “America’s largest classroom,” “America’s largest stage” and “a trusted window to the world.” Inspirational, educational, entertaining and diverse are other ways the site characterizes the organization.
On Nov. 3, 1969, the Public Broadcasting Service was founded. Since then, it has continuously sought to feed America’s “appetite for excellence” and “enrich man’s spirit,” which was how President Lyndon B. Johnson described the effect of the Public Broadcasting Act as he signed it in 1967.
Here are some of America’s PBS favorites from the last 50 years that we feel embodied the three-pronged mission.
America’s largest classroom
“As America’s largest classroom, PBS is available to all of America’s children — including those who can’t attend preschool — and offers educational media that help prepare children for success in school. PBS is committed to bringing the power of media into the classroom — helping educators to engage students in new and different ways.” (PBS)
‘Sesame Street’ (1969-present)
The monsters just down the street turn out to be friendlier than you might think. In just one week, this educational program full of fun-loving characters, ABCs and 123s will celebrate 50 years since its debut. Aside from filling its fundamental role as an accessible resource for underprivileged preschoolers to prepare for school, “Sesame Street” addresses difficult topics in ways children can understand. Even more, it paved the way for inclusivity to permeate the lives of children through its multiracial cast and diverse set of muppet characters coming from divorced parents and homes with addiction, and even experiencing various mental and physical disabilities. Although recently signed with HBO Max, “Sesame Street” has been broadcast on PBS since its beginning in 1969 and will continue to air episodes after they air on HBO Max.
“Sesame Street” is just one of many shows on PBS Kids, which broadcasts children’s educational programming 24/7.
‘NOVA’ (1974-present)
Inspired by the BBC program “Horizons,” “NOVA” gives an in-depth look into breakthroughs in science and technology through its series of documentary programs. “NOVA” addresses discoveries as they happen, delves into the history of the topic at hand, and provides insight from the researchers and scientists directly involved. It has been given innumerable awards, and stands as the highest-rated science show on television and the most-watched documentary series on public television.
‘Bill Nye the Science Guy’ (1993-1998)
“Bill Nye the Science Guy” came to define many kids’ experiences with science through its simple words, funny jokes, songs, graphics and wacky sound effects. Since then, students have chanted “Bill! Bill! Bill!” in classrooms all over the country, in reference to the show’s upbeat theme song. Currently, Bill Nye is still active in the science community through his program on Netflix and book, but his original programming from decades ago still lives as a crowd favorite.
‘American Experience’ (1988-present)
Dramatic reenactments, exclusive footage and commentary define this series of documentaries that highlight the most profoundly influential moments in America’s history. “American Experience” is more than just a history class; it is a more interesting way to be informed about the people and events that shaped America into what it is today.
America’s largest stage
“At a time when funding for music and arts within our schools is being cut, PBS is helping to keep the arts alive today and for generations to come by ensuring the worlds of music, theater, dance and art remain available to all Americans, many of whom might never have had the opportunity to experience them otherwise. During the 2016-’17 season, PBS offered nearly 600 hours of arts and cultural programming, which was watched by close to 110 million people.” (PBS)
‘American Masters’ (1986-present)
“American Masters” is a biography series that “celebrates our arts and culture.” For more than 30 years, “American Masters” has continued to delve into the “creative journeys” of renowned artists and creators around the world and throughout time. Critics of the show praise their work as one that preserves the historical accuracy of the stories of people who have left behind cultural legacies.
‘Great Performances’ (1972-present)
“‘Great Performances’ brings the best in the performing arts from across America and around the world to a US television audience.” For those who can’t make it to live performances, “Great Performances” brings opera, theater, dance, drama, classical music and more right to their living room.
“The Joy of Painting With Bob Ross” (1983-1994)
T-shirts, bobbleheads, Halloween costumes, art classes and memes have been created in honor of this artist-turned-cultural phenomenon. Bob Ross was a quirky middle-aged painter who led classes in wet-on-wet landscape painting on public television from 1983-1994. The legacy of Bob Ross continued after his death from cancer 1995 as his show continued to be broadcast on PBS, as well as YouTube and Netflix. His calm countenance and chipper sayings set him apart as a TV artist known for many quotable moments.
A trusted window to the world
“PBS offers programming for a wide range of ages, interests and genres. Each month, nearly 100 million people through television and nearly 33 million people online explore the worlds of science, history, culture, great literature and public affairs through PBS’ trusted content.” (PBS)
‘PBS NewsHour’ (1975-present)
In 1973, Robert MacNeil and Jim Lehrer formed a partnership to cover the Senate Select Committee on Presidential Campaigns during the height of Watergate. Although they went their separate ways for a time, their dedication to trusted, in-depth journalism paved the way for “The Robert MacNeil Report,” “The MacNeil/Lehrer Report” and eventually “PBS NewsHour.”
‘Masterpiece’ (1971-present)
Since 1971, “Masterpiece” has presented period dramas and mysteries centered on various historical, classical and cultural eras. “Masterpiece” has presented many popular British productions including “Downton Abbey” and “Poldark,” which often give an intriguing look at a worldwide stage. Today, it stands as the longest running primetime drama series.
‘Globe Trekker’ (1994-present)
British production “Globe Trekker” brings audiences on adventures to faraway places alongside various hosts of the show. Each episode allows viewers to experience cultures, places, music and cuisine from the luxury of their own home.