Brief
CW celebrates 20 years with oral history of its teen‑focused programming
The network’s founders and key creators discuss its launch, flagship series and evolution toward inclusive storytelling.
By Felo News Desk · Published
The CW commemorated its 20th anniversary on Sept. 29, 2026, releasing an oral‑history series that revisits the network’s origins and its most influential shows, according to the Los Angeles Times.
The network was formed in 2006 when UPN and The WB merged, initially carrying over series such as “Gilmore Girls” and “America’s Next Top Model.” It later carved a niche with teen‑focused dramas like “Gossip Girl,” “The Vampire Diaries,” “Arrow” and “Riverdale,” which the outlet says helped shape a generation’s pop culture.
In the interview series, Dawn Ostroff – who moved from UPN to launch the CW and served as its president of entertainment until 2011 – explained the goal of taking younger, especially female, viewers seriously. “I think teen girls … are so happy somebody’s speaking to them because, oftentimes, they get ignored,” she told the Times.
Rick Haskins, the network’s former head of marketing who later became president of streaming and chief branding officer, recalled the early branding challenges, noting that the CW’s initials were initially associated with “country western” before becoming synonymous with teen drama.
The oral‑history also highlights how the CW’s programming addressed real issues such as cyberbullying and queer relationships while maintaining a polished aesthetic.
Key facts
- The CW was launched in 2006 from the merger of UPN and The WB. (latimes.com)
- Its early lineup included carryovers like “Gilmore Girls” and “America’s Next Top Model.” (latimes.com)
- Signature series such as “Gossip Girl,” “The Vampire Diaries,” “Arrow” and “Riverdale” defined the network’s teen‑focused brand. (latimes.com)
- Dawn Ostroff, former president of entertainment, said the network aimed to speak seriously to teen girls. (latimes.com)
- Rick Haskins recalled that the CW’s initials were initially linked to “country western” before the brand took shape. (latimes.com)
Sources
- [1] latimes.com — originally reported as “From creating 'crack for girls' to superhero TV: The untold history of the CW, 20 years later”
