after school special

Definition

A type of educational television film or episode, particularly popular from the 1970s-1990s, that addressed serious social issues like drug use, bullying, or suicide in a straightforward, moralistic manner intended for young viewers.

Example Usage

That episode felt like an after school special with its heavy-handed message about the dangers of peer pressure.

Origin

ABC's 'ABC Afternoon Special' and 'ABC Afterschool Special' series, which premiered in 1972 and became a template for issue-driven youth programming.

Fun Fact

The phrase 'after school special' has become shorthand for any overly earnest, preachy, or melodramatic take on a social problem.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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