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| 42 years later, ESPN now has worldwide TV coverage. (c)ESPN |
On This Day In 1979, ESPN (Entertainment and Sports Programming Network) launched in Bristol, Connecticut at 7:00 p.m Eastern Time.
The company was founded by Bill Rasmussen, his son Scott and Ed Eagan.As they along with Bob Beuys initially called the network 'ESP', the company was incorporated for $91 and shortly after decided to expand it's concept nationwide after meeting Al Parinello of RCA.
RCA (RCA Corporation also formerly known as Radio Corporation of America) was at the forefront of network communications and was growing in satellite distribution. Parinello made it clear that a transponder would grant ESP the means to broadcast across the country.
Family, friends and associates helped raise $30,000 for the transponder before ESP located a piece of land in Bristol which was acquired for $18,000.
Fittingly enough, about 30,000 viewers tuned in for launch.
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