Get all the details on how, when, and where to watch the upcoming ABC News special, “The Golden Girls: 40 Years of Laughter and Friendship – Special Edition of 20/20,” right here.
This special tribute marks four decades since the beloved sitcom first aired and explores its enduring cultural impact. The program will broadcast on Tuesday, November 11, from 10:01 to 11:00 p.m. EST on ABC. It will also be available for streaming the following day on Disney+ and Hulu.
“The Golden Girls: 40 Years of Laughter and Friendship” delves into the show’s creation, from its early development and pilot episode to its status as a television classic. Celebrating a time when Hollywood favored youth, the series broke ground by featuring four older women—Bea Arthur, Betty White, Rue McClanahan, and Estelle Getty—front and center. Through sharp, uninhibited comedy, it challenged stereotypes about aging and addressed taboo topics, redefining how older women are portrayed on TV. Its timeless appeal has drawn new audiences and left a lasting mark on pop culture.
The special features new interviews with series creator Susan Harris, Emmy® Award-winning executive producer Tony Thomas, and director Terry Hughes. It also includes rarely seen behind-the-scenes footage, such as rehearsals, outtakes, and moments of camaraderie on set. Additionally, it features interviews with celebrity fans like Sheryl Lee Ralph, Kelly Ripa, Laverne Cox, Erika Alexander, Pamela Adlon, and Mario Lopez, along with original writers and producers of the show.
The documentary pays homage to the legendary actresses who brought Dorothy, Blanche, Rose, and Sophia to life and offers an inside look at the show’s fan community, including trivia nights, podcasts, fashion collections, live performances, and even college courses dedicated to “The Golden Girls.”
The series has achieved remarkable streaming success, with over 1 billion hours watched globally on Disney+ and Hulu. All seven seasons are available to stream on Hulu and through the Hulu bundle on Disney+.
Produced by ABC News Studios and “20/20,” the special’s executive producers include Melia Patria, Eileen Murphy, David Sloan, and Janice Johnston.
How to Watch:
- Air Date & Time: Tuesday, November 11, 10:01-11:00 p.m. EST
- Channel: ABC
- Streaming: Available the next day on Disney+ and Hulu
Don’t miss this celebration of “The Golden Girls” and its enduring legacy of humor and friendship!
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