Way before Amazon or social media influencers, there was Home Shopping Network and QVC with personalities that became household names. The latter was founded by entrepreneur Joseph Segel 40 years ago this month, expanding on the concept of “shoppertainment.” In short order, the network moved into a 24-hour, 365-day schedule securing deals with major retailers as audiences and popularity began to build. Its global footprint grew in the decades that followed.
Names such as Lisa Robertson, David Venable, Joan Rivers, and Kim Gravel are among those recognizable personalities during various eras. Business boomed so much over time that HSN was acquired in 2017 further entering the digital and streaming age with the advent of QVC+ and HSN+. The platform has become a hub for numerous programs including Busy Philipps’ late-night talk show Busy This Week.
The origin story of the network is also being told through a four-part docuseries A QVC Story through the streaming arm of the media empire. With the first part available for free on demand, Part 2 “Building Legacies” premieres June 13. The next chapter focuses on how QVC became a focal point for Hollywood, sports stars and more. It also delves into the international expansion, essentially becoming Shark Tank before Shark Tank existed in terms of providing new creators a platform. Many may know Lori Greiner from the investor show, but her roots are from the product selling institution as the often-recognized “Queen of QVC.”
An exclusive clip from the upcoming episode of the doc was shared with TV Insider. It pushes the fact that QVC was one of the first networks to lean into the appeal of Tinsel Town. So much, it would prove to be a viable vehicle to promote various films, records, projects, etc. An A-list list of celebs from all walks of life walked through the Pennsylvania studios to sell something, including household names from Shaquille O’Neal to Bob Ross.
The teaser brings the nostalgia complete with old school graphics and grainy video footage. They show clips featuring Diane von Furstenberg, Tova Borgnine, Charlton Heston, Marie Osmond, Joe DiMaggio, Joe Montana, and many more.
Longtime QVC fixture Leah Williams spoke about having jewelry designer Nolan Miller, who was dressing Krystle Carrington from Dynasty, making his collection available through the network alongside the usual spot in Beverly Hills. Mary Beth Roe reminisced about a time where, pregnant at the time, participating in the group workout in collaboration to push the Leslie Sansone walk tapes. Jane Treacy recalled QVC having a weekend with Tom Hanks,Penny Marshall, and Jon Lovitz where they were promoting A League of Their Own apparel before the movie even came out. It was said that a producer credited the huge opening weekend in part to all the attention QVC gave the film.
What are some of your favorite QVC memories and moments? Let us know in the comments.
A QVC Story; Part 2 premiere, June 13, QVC+ and HSN+
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