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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/.

Sep 6, 2018

Whether you’ve ever watched Aaron Sorkin’s 1998–2000 classic series Sports Night or not, this episode explores its ongoing relevance and calls for a reboot. The episode revisits a sexual harassment plot from That Girl (1967) and connects it to a similar storyline in Sports Night, sparking a broader conversation about journalism’s commitment to changing workplace harassment.

Plot Summary

This episode examines the cultural and industry impact of Sports Night, particularly in light of the #MeToo movement. The discussion includes:

  • How Sports Night highlighted the ethical dilemmas of journalism, gender dynamics, and workplace harassment.
  • Parallels between That Girl and Sports Night in portraying sexism in media environments.
  • Calls for a modern Sports Night reboot that addresses contemporary workplace issues.
The conversation considers how Aaron Sorkin’s storytelling in Sports Night was ahead of its time and remains relevant in discussions about mentorship, gender disparities in journalism, and the ongoing push for safer work environments.

Episode Resources
  • Referenced Shows:

    • Sports Night (1998–2000)
    • That Girl (1966–1971)