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Welcome to Advanced TV Herstory, the podcast that connects the dots of TV & feminism and American politics & culture. We tell the stories of women in TV who have had a profound impact on the confidence and aspirations of generations of girls and women.

We highlight the pioneering journalists, talented actresses, and gutsy writers who challenged societal norms and provide historical context for their achievements within the cultural and political trends of the time. By exploring the past, we ensure that the struggles, triumphs, and milestones of these women are not lost to history.

Hosted and produced by television scholar Cynthia Bemis Abrams, Advanced TV Herstory is more than just a podcast. It is a research-based examination of the evolution of television and women in our society. Each episode is an opportunity to inspire listeners to believe in themselves, challenge norms, break barriers, and shape the future of television and our world.

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  2. Designing Women's Earnest NYE: A Storytelling Classic

Designing Women's Earnest NYE: A Storytelling Classic

Dec 28, 2017

New Year's Eve storytelling on television is often hit-or-miss, but Designing Womendelivered a timeless masterpiecewith the January 1, 1990, episode "The First Day of the Last Decade of the Entire 20th Century."

Written by Linda Bloodworth-Thomason and directed by Harry Thomason, this heartfelt episode features the original cast—Dixie Carter, Delta Burke, Jean Smart, and Annie Potts—gathering in support of Charlene as she welcomes her baby into the world. It also includes Dolly Parton in a dream sequence, delivering a message of hope and wisdom as Charlene’s Guardian Angel.

Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams explores the cultural and emotional significance of this classic Designing Women moment, highlighting the late-80s sentimentality, strong female friendships, and enduring legacy of the series.

  • The original cast’s performances, featuring Dixie Carter, Delta Burke, Jean Smart, and Annie Potts.
  • Dolly Parton’s role as Charlene’s dream Guardian Angel and the wisdom she imparts.
  • The warmth and emotion of the episode’s final moments, as the women reflect on the past decade and the future ahead.
  • How this episode stands out in the history of Designing Women as one of its most emotionally resonant and beloved episodes.

This episode of Advanced TV Herstory looks at why this particular Designing Women story remains a fan favorite and an example of exceptional American TV storytelling.
 

Referenced Shows and Networks:
  • Designing Women (CBS, 1986–1993)
  • The First Day of the Last Decade of the Entire 20th Century (Season 4, Episode 13)
Related Episodes:

Episode Life Lessons
  • TV storytelling can inspire and comfort – The Designing Women New Year’s Eve episode provided a hopeful, heartfelt moment that still resonates.
  • Friendship and support matter – The bonds between the characters remind us of the power of strong female relationships.
  • Timeless themes create classic TV – Great storytelling stands the test of time, and this episode remains an emotional touchstone for fans.