Operation Prime Time
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Operation Prime Time (OPT) was a syndication block of programming offered to independent stations in 1976 by what was then called MCA (now NBC Universal Television). It was MCA's desire to launch new television shows by having them run in first-run syndication. OPT's slogan was "Operation Prime Time for better programming."
OPT inspired syndication models that arose in later years, such as The Disney Afternoon, the Prime Time Entertainment Network (PTEN) and the newly formed MyNetworkTV. Its initial programs were miniseries including an adaptation of John Jakes' The Bastard and Edward the King. OPT also distributed the animated Christmas special Yogi's First Christmas.
OPT and its successor company, Television Program Enterprises (TPE) were formed by Al Masini. The most successful program from both OPT and TPE was, and still is, Entertainment Tonight, now produced and distributed entirely by CBS Paramount Domestic Television. Other programs included Solid Gold, Star Search, and Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous.
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