1950s
Disney's deal with ABC gave Disney money for Disneyland in exchange for a weekly show, which helped ABC become one of the big three networks.
“ABC needed the television so so damn bad they bought an amusement park.”
Topic
Disneyland
7 facts from 2 episodes, in date order. These are what speakers said on the shows, each linked to the moment it was said. They aren't independently verified.
1952
In March 1952 Walt Disney announced Disneyland, to be built on a small strip of land next to the Burbank studio for $1.5 million.
“in March of 1952, Walt announces it, Disneyland, to be constructed on that little strip of land for a cost of $1.5 million.”
1953
The Stanford Research Institute identified a 160-acre site of orange groves in Anaheim, 25 miles from Los Angeles, for Disneyland.
“A full 160 acres. Yep. 25 miles away from Los Angeles. It is currently just some orange groves.”
1954
ABC invested $500,000 in equity in Disneyland Inc., matching Walt Disney Productions, and guaranteed $4.5 million in bank loans.
“ABC ends up investing $500,000 in equity in Disneyland Inc. Same terms and amount as Disney productions. In addition, though, they also guarantee $4.5 million in bank loans.”
1955
Disneyland's opening day caused the largest traffic jam in Orange County history.
“the opening day of Disneyland caused the largest traffic jam in Orange County history.”
1955
ABC's live broadcast of Disneyland's July 1955 opening was described as the largest live telecast ever, with about 83 million viewers.
“It was the world's largest live telecast ever. 83 million people tuned in to watch from home, which means that nearly half of America watched this broadcast.”
Undated
Disney developed Disneyland through a separate company called WED, named for his initials, working from a bungalow at the edge of the studio lot.
“He's running it through this company called WED, which is his his initials.”
Episodes