NBC Studio 1A

NBC Studio 1A History

NBC Studio 1A, located in the heart of 30 Rockefeller Plaza in New York City, is one of the most iconic studios in television history. It's most famous for being the home of "The Today Show", which has been broadcast from Studio 1A since 1994.

Key Milestones in NBC Studio 1A History:

1. Construction and Early Years (1930s-1940s):
   • 30 Rockefeller Plaza, also known as the RCA Building, was completed in 1933 as part of Rockefeller Center.
   • NBC became a key tenant, using various studios in the building for its radio and television programming.
   • Studio 1A was originally designed for radio broadcasts, and it later transitioned to television as TV grew in popularity.
2. Home of "The Today Show" (1994-present):
   • In 1994, NBC renovated Studio 1A to serve as the new home for "The Today Show", moving it from a smaller location within the building.
   • The move coincided with a rebranding of the show, making it more interactive and accessible, with large glass windows allowing viewers to watch the live broadcast from outside in Rockefeller Plaza.
   • This transformation made the studio a signature feature of New York City and brought an "open" feel to the show, emphasizing live interaction with the crowd outside.
3. Studio Design and Innovation:
   • Studio 1A is designed with a modern, flexible layout to accommodate the various segments of "The Today Show," including interviews, live performances, cooking segments, and news updates.
   • The space features advanced broadcasting technology and high-definition screens, ensuring the show keeps up with technological advancements in television production.
   • Its large windows overlooking Rockefeller Plaza allow the live audience outside to be a part of the show, making Studio 1A a tourist attraction.
4. Cultural and Media Impact:
   • "The Today Show" has become a staple of American morning television, and Studio 1A has been its iconic home for decades.
   • The studio has hosted numerous historic interviews, live performances, and special broadcasts.
   • On many occasions, the outside crowd in Rockefeller Plaza plays a role in the show, with fans holding signs, celebrating special events, or interacting with hosts.
5. Recent Updates:
   • In recent years, NBC has continually updated Studio 1A with new technology and redesigned sets to maintain its status as a premier morning show studio.
   • Despite these updates, the core design that allows interaction with fans in Rockefeller Plaza has remained a consistent feature.

Overall, NBC Studio 1A has played a significant role in shaping the format of morning television and remains an integral part of "The Today Show's" identity. It has become a symbol of the show's connection to its audience and New York City's media landscape.