Winnipeg's Television Pioneer Marks 65 Years
Sixty-five years ago today, Winnipeg's television landscape changed forever when CJAY-TV officially launched on November 12, 1960. The station, which would later become known as CTV Winnipeg, began broadcasting under its original call letters, bringing local programming and national content to Manitoba households.
The Dawn of a New Broadcasting Era
The arrival of CJAY-TV represented a significant moment in Canadian media development. During an era when television was rapidly becoming the dominant form of entertainment and information, the station established itself as Winnipeg's newest broadcast voice. The November 1960 debut came at a time of substantial growth in Canadian television infrastructure.
Unlike many modern media launches, CJAY-TV entered a market where television was still establishing its identity and reach across Manitoba. The station's initial broadcast signaled the beginning of what would become a long-standing institution in Winnipeg's media scene, eventually evolving into the CTV affiliate that serves the region today.
Legacy and Evolution
Over the past six and a half decades, the station has witnessed and reported on countless historical moments, from local Winnipeg developments to international events that shaped Canada. The transition from CJAY-TV to CTV Winnipeg marked an important chapter in the station's history, reflecting the broader consolidation and evolution of Canadian broadcast media.
The 65th anniversary serves as a reminder of how dramatically television technology and content delivery have transformed since that first broadcast in 1960. From black-and-white programming to digital streaming, the station has adapted to numerous technological revolutions while maintaining its presence in the Winnipeg market.
This milestone anniversary highlights the enduring role of local television in connecting communities and preserving regional identity within Canada's broader media landscape. As Winnipeg continues to grow and change, the station that began as CJAY-TV remains a constant presence, documenting the city's stories for generations of viewers.
