Chapter 174: ABC Rebroadcast, Eight Parties Concerned
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MGM stands as the most dominant among the eight major Hollywood film studios, boasting the largest film library and the highest number of stars. Meyer, the chairman of the Oscar committee, wields significant influence in the film industry. A partnership with MGM would greatly benefit ABC.
However, Hardy is determined not to sell ABC shares cheaply, knowing that MGM's participation has been merely beneficial but not pivotal.
"Hardy, are you trying to rob me? Do you really believe ABC is worth hundreds of millions of dollars?!" Meyer exclaimed angrily.
Hardy responded with a smile, "Mr. Meyer, I guarantee that if you buy 20% of ABC shares for $20 million this year, you won't get another chance at this price next year."
"I could invest in other broadcasting companies or even start a new station myself," Meyer retorted, still irritated.
"Well, with ABC already established, I can confidently say that any new TV station would struggle to compete. NBC and CBS would be left behind," Hardy countered.
"Are you really that confident?"
"Have you ever seen me fail in my ventures?" Hardy replied with a chuckle.
Meyer, a seasoned professional himself, understood Hardy's ability to secure powerful partners for quick success and substantial profits.
"Alright, Hardy, we'll revisit this discussion later," Meyer said, though he remained unconvinced by the proposed price.
"Mr. Meyer, my airline is set to launch soon. I'd like to extend an invitation for you to attend. Expect an invitation in the mail," Hardy offered.
"I'll definitely be there," Meyer assured.
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After two months of meticulous preparation, HD Airlines is ready for its grand opening. Although it had been in trial operation for a month to ensure smooth operations, today marks its official launch.
At Los Angeles Airport, HD Airlines held a modest yet significant opening ceremony. The guest list was impressive, featuring California Congressman Nicholas, the mayor of Los Angeles, Wells Fargo Bank's president, and Meyer from MGM Pictures. The event also attracted numerous Hollywood stars, including Gary Grant, Clark Gable, Ava Gardner, Elizabeth Taylor, and Hedy Lamarr, among others.
The sheer number of celebrities turned the airport into a spectacle, causing delays and cancellations for some flights as passengers were captivated by the star-studded event. Despite the chaos, HD Airlines' security team ensured the event proceeded without incident.
Hardy, along with key figures like Los Angeles Mayor Nicosson, Wells Fargo's president, and Meyer, took to the stage to cut the ceremonial ribbon, eliciting enthusiastic applause.
Following the ribbon-cutting, HD Airlines President Franklin delivered a speech detailing the airline's scope and ambitions. Based in Los Angeles, HD Airlines operates hubs in New York and Kansas City, serving over 20 cities, including San Francisco, Chicago, Las Vegas, and Denver, with plans to expand further.
"Our vision is to create an 'Airbus,' making air travel as convenient and affordable as taking a bus. Starting today, we're offering full-line discount services with fares 30% lower than those set by the aviation management department. Additionally, we have a points system where each flight earns points that can be redeemed for future tickets," Franklin announced.
The news of HD Airlines' official opening and its remarkable discounts spread quickly, creating a buzz. People were astonished by the airline's aggressive pricing and the prospect of a price war in the aviation industry. Many wondered how HD Airlines could sustain such low fares while still remaining profitable.
Despite some negative feedback during the trial phase—passengers complained about the lack of meals, water, and flight attendants—HD Airlines quickly became popular. For many, the low cost outweighed the lack of amenities, making the airline a practical choice for those looking to save money.
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The next day, major newspapers like the New York Times and Los Angeles Times featured advertisements announcing ABC TV's official relaunch.
The ad listed ABC's extensive programming schedule, running from 8 a.m. to midnight, a significant increase compared to the five-hour daily programming of its competitors. The schedule included:
- **8:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.**: "Morning News Broadcast"
- **8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.**: "Estee Lauder Teaches Makeup"
- **10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.**: Documentary "Assault on Pearl Harbor"
- **12:00 p.m. - 12:30 p.m.**: "Noon News Broadcast"
- **12:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.**: "TV Shopping"
- **6:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.**: "Colorful Cartoon - Sesame Street"
- **7:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.**: "Time"
- **7:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.**: "Andy Economic Forum"
- **8:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.**: "Elaine Tonight Show"
- **9:30 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.**: Movie "Red Dead Redemption"
The comprehensive programming lineup generated considerable excitement and skepticism. Many wondered how much money Hardy had invested to offer such extensive content for free.
Executives at NBC and CBS were particularly attentive, noting ABC's 24-hour programming might affect their viewership. The president of NBC expressed doubts about Hardy's ability to sustain such an investment without commercial revenue, predicting that ABC might not last long.
CBS executives were also concerned, holding special meetings to strategize their response. However, they decided to observe the situation before taking any action, noting that the success of a TV station depends not only on its programming but also on its ability to attract and retain viewers.