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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.

Learn more and subscribe to our newsletter at www.tvherstory.com/.

  1. All Episodes
  2. 2015
  3. 08

80s Monied Matriarchs: Ellie Ewing and Angela Channing

Aug 26, 2015

Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams frames the appearance of the prime time serial drama genre of the 1970s, which began with Dallas and included Falcon Crest. Cynthia observes the role of audience bait (representation!) via the casting of acclaimed film actresses Barbara Bel Geddes and Jane Wyman. For TV, these women filled...

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Debbie Allen: Early Career & Fame’s Impact on TV

Aug 19, 2015

Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams celebrates the early career and influence of Debbie Allen, the groundbreaking actor, choreographer, director, producer, and businesswoman. This episode explores her journey from Howard University to her star-making role as Lydia Grant in Fame, both the film and TV series, and how she shaped the...

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Women of My So Called Life (1994-5)

Aug 12, 2015

Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams celebrates the classic coming-of-age drama "My So-Called Life" and its primary writer, Winnie Holzman. It's a drama that revolves around mothers and daughters. While much of the short-lived series' stories revolve around timeless teenage angst, there's an embedded perspective of Holzman,...

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Battle of the Sexes: King & Riggs 1973

Aug 8, 2015

Host Cynthia Bemis Abrams recounts the heyday of feminism, when tennis ace Billie Jean King accepted the challenge to play Bobbie Riggs in a prime time match. The backstory of King agreeing to the offer is fascinating and reveals the risk King took on behalf of feminism and the progress of Title IX, women's rights and...

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