40 Years Ago: The 1986 Network TV Campaigns

In this special episode of Forgotten TV, journey back to the fall of 1986, when NBC urged America to “Come Home,” ABC proclaimed, “We Belong Together,” and CBS asked viewers to “Share the Spirit.” Through rare promos, network image campaigns, and the debut of new shows including ALF, L.A. Law, Head of the Class, Designing Women, My Sister Sam (and several others you probably don't remember), explore a fascinating moment when all three major networks seemed to be selling something larger than television itself: family, togetherness, reassurance, and emotional connection...with NBC and CBS occasionally resembling a boisterous Sunday morning revival meeting. We also explore the likely reason that: NBC invited viewers to "Come Home." ABC insisted "We Belong Together." CBS urged audiences to "Share the Spirit." Researching and producing podcasts and articles is extremely time consuming. Please consider financially supporting Forgotten TV in any of the following ways: SUPPORT FORGOTTEN TV ON PATREON Support Forgotten TV with Paypal Buy Me a Coffee Shop the Forgotten TV Merch Store Original audio clips included are for the purposes of historical context, review, commentary, and criticism only and are not intended to infringe. Some music used under license from Epidemic Sound. If you need music for your podcast or YouTube channel, please visit Epidemic Sound.  Be sure to check out promotional partner Q106.5, the home of 80s and 90s hits at Q1065.com Forgotten TV is not affiliated with or authorized by any production company or TV network involved in the making of any TV show or film mentioned. All TV series, films, and characters are copyright and property of their respective rights holders. Copyright 2026 Forgotten TV Media