WWE SmackDown, one of the most iconic and enduring television shows in professional wrestling history, has captivated audiences around the globe for over two decades. If you’ve ever wondered just how many episodes of SmackDown have aired, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the history and evolution of this legendary show.
The Birth of SmackDown: A New Era in Wrestling
SmackDown first aired on August 26, 1999, as a special broadcast on the UPN network. The show was originally conceived as a counterpart to WWE’s flagship program, Monday Night Raw. While Raw was known for its edgy and unpredictable content, SmackDown was created to provide a different flavor of wrestling entertainment, often featuring a mix of high-flying action, compelling storylines, and a focus on athleticism.
Weekly Programming: From Thursdays to Fridays
Initially, SmackDown was scheduled to air on Thursday nights, offering fans another prime-time wrestling program during the week. However, in 2005, WWE made the decision to move SmackDown to Friday nights, where it gained the nickname “Friday Night SmackDown.” This move was part of WWE’s strategy to dominate prime-time slots and provide wrestling content throughout the week.
Network Changes and Expanding the Audience (H2)
Over the years, SmackDown has undergone several network changes. After UPN, the show moved to The CW in 2006, MyNetworkTV in 2008, Syfy in 2010, and then to the USA Network in 2016. Each network change brought a different audience, helping to expand SmackDown’s viewership and solidify its place in pop culture. Finally, in 2019, SmackDown made its most significant network shift, moving to FOX, one of the major broadcast networks in the United States, further increasing its reach and prominence.
The Number of Episodes: A Journey Through Time
As of August 2024, WWE SmackDown has aired 1,299 episodes. This impressive number reflects the show’s longevity and success as a cornerstone of WWE programming. Each episode of SmackDown has contributed to the legacy of WWE, featuring unforgettable moments, such as title changes, debut matches, and the rise of new wrestling superstars.
Milestone Episodes (H3)
Throughout its run, SmackDown has celebrated several milestone episodes, each marking a significant point in the show’s history. Here are a few notable milestones:
- 100th Episode: Airing on April 25, 2002, this episode was a celebration of SmackDown’s early success and featured a thrilling match between Triple H and Hulk Hogan.
- 500th Episode: This episode aired on March 20, 2009, and included an epic encounter between Edge and John Cena, two of WWE’s biggest stars at the time.
- 1000th Episode: On October 16, 2018, SmackDown reached a monumental milestone with its 1000th episode, featuring appearances from legends like The Undertaker, Edge, and Rey Mysterio.
The Evolution of SmackDown: From the Attitude Era to Today (H2)
SmackDown has seen many changes over the years, adapting to the shifting tastes of its audience and the evolving landscape of professional wrestling. During the late 1990s and early 2000s, SmackDown was a key player in the “Attitude Era,” known for its edgy content and larger-than-life characters like The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and The Undertaker.
As WWE transitioned into the “Ruthless Aggression Era,” SmackDown continued to thrive, introducing new stars like John Cena, Brock Lesnar, and Randy Orton.
Today, SmackDown remains a central part of WWE’s programming, showcasing a blend of established stars and rising talents. The show continues to push the boundaries of sports entertainment, delivering high-quality matches and storylines that keep fans on the edge of their seats.
Notable Superstars and Moments (H2)
SmackDown has been the stage for countless memorable moments and has helped launch the careers of many WWE Superstars. Here are some of the most iconic:
- The Rock’s Catchphrase “SmackDown!”: The show’s name itself was inspired by one of The Rock’s famous catchphrases, “Lay the SmackDown!” The Rock was a key figure in SmackDown’s early success and remains one of the most beloved figures in WWE history.
- The Rise of Edge: Edge’s career skyrocketed on SmackDown, where he became known as the “Rated-R Superstar.” His feuds with John Cena and The Undertaker are some of the most celebrated in WWE history.
SmackDown in the Modern Era: A Look at the 2020s (H2)
The 2020s have brought new challenges and opportunities for SmackDown. The COVID-19 pandemic forced WWE to innovate with its programming, leading to the creation of the “Thunderdome,” a virtual fan experience that allowed SmackDown to continue broadcasting live events despite the lack of a live audience.
His ongoing storyline has captivated audiences and solidified SmackDown’s reputation for top-tier storytelling.
The Future of SmackDown: What’s Next? (H2)
As WWE looks to the future, SmackDown is poised to continue its legacy as one of the most influential wrestling shows in history. With a new generation of superstars emerging and WWE’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality entertainment, fans can expect SmackDown to keep breaking new ground and setting new standards in the world of professional wrestling.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence (H2)
With 1,299 episodes and counting, WWE SmackDown has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of professional wrestling and a beloved weekly tradition for millions of fans worldwide. From its early days as a companion to Monday Night Raw to its current status as a prime-time powerhouse on FOX, SmackDown’s journey is a testament to WWE’s ability to adapt, innovate, and entertain across generations.
As the show continues to evolve and grow, one thing is certain: SmackDown’s legacy is far from over, and fans can look forward to many more episodes filled with action, drama, and unforgettable moments.
FAQs (H2)
Q1: How many episodes of SmackDown have aired as of 2024?
A1: As of August 2024, WWE SmackDown has aired 1,299 episodes.
Q2: When did SmackDown first debut?
A2: SmackDown debuted on August 26, 1999.
Q3: Has SmackDown always aired on Friday nights?
A3: No, SmackDown originally aired on Thursday nights but moved to Friday nights in 2005.
Q4: Which network currently broadcasts SmackDown?
A4: SmackDown currently airs on FOX, where it moved in October 2019.
Q5: What are some of the most famous moments in SmackDown history?
A5: Some famous moments include The Rock’s catchphrase “Lay the SmackDown,” Edge’s rise as the “Rated-R Superstar,” and The Undertaker’s legendary matches.