Touchstone Television

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Touchstone Television was an American television production company that was a subsidiary of Disney Television Studios, part of The Walt Disney Company. Originally established in 1985 as Touchstone Films, it was rebranded to Touchstone Television in 1986, reflecting its move into television production. The company was known for producing a wide range of television series across various genres, including drama, comedy, and reality. Touchstone Television played a significant role in the television landscape, contributing to the popularity of prime-time television with a number of successful series.

History

Touchstone Television was initially created as a label for The Walt Disney Company's then-newly created television production division. The name "Touchstone" was chosen to signify a "test" or "criterion" for quality and entertainment value. The division was part of Disney's strategy to expand its footprint in the entertainment industry beyond its traditional animation and theme park businesses.

In its early years, Touchstone Television found success with a number of television series that became cultural touchstones. One of its first major hits was The Golden Girls, a sitcom that aired from 1985 to 1992 and received critical acclaim for its portrayal of four older women living together in Miami. This success was followed by other notable series such as Home Improvement and Boy Meets World, which both became staples of 1990s television.

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Touchstone Television continued to produce a wide array of popular and critically acclaimed series. Its portfolio expanded to include a diverse range of genres, from the medical drama Grey's Anatomy to the mystery thriller Lost. These series not only garnered high viewership ratings but also received numerous awards, solidifying Touchstone Television's reputation as a leading producer of quality television content.

Rebranding and Legacy

In 2007, Touchstone Television was rebranded as ABC Studios, aligning more closely with its parent company's branding strategy. This change marked the end of the Touchstone Television name but not its legacy. ABC Studios, and later Disney Television Studios, continued to produce television series under the new branding that upheld the quality and entertainment value that Touchstone Television was known for.

The impact of Touchstone Television on the television industry is significant. It helped to elevate the status of television production within The Walt Disney Company and contributed to the broader acceptance of television as a medium capable of delivering high-quality, engaging content. Many of the series produced by Touchstone Television have left a lasting impact on popular culture and continue to be enjoyed by audiences around the world.

See Also

• Disney Television Studios
• ABC Studios
• The Walt Disney Company
• Television production