Today in Nerd History | March 24

March 24 is a wonderful pop-culture mash-up: a larger-than-life wrestling attraction steps onto the big stage, shiny new movie tech starts replacing VHS on American shelves, and the mid-2000s deliver a one-two punch of sea-sprayed adventure, portable PlayStation dreams, and peak workplace cringe comedy.

Inclusion on this list does not imply that the entry is family friendly, only that it was a nerd culture milestone. Parents should, of course, use discernment.

On March 24, 1973, the wrestling world met André the Giant, whose extraordinary size and skill would capture audiences for decades.

Nerdy Facts:

• Eighth Wonder of the World: Standing at over seven feet tall, André’s immense stature was matched only by his larger-than-life personality.
• Epic Undefeated Streak: He famously went 15 years without a clean loss, dominating the ring with sheer power and showmanship.
• Pop Culture Icon: Outside wrestling, André’s role as Fezzik in The Princess Bride solidified his status as a beloved figure in entertainment.

DVDs didn’t just promise “better picture”—they promised a whole new way to collect movies: no rewinding, scene selection, and a shiny disc that felt like the future. Twister became one of the earliest high-profile titles people grabbed to show off the format (and to justify buying a brand-new player). 

Nerdy Facts:

• Twister hit DVD in March 1997 and is widely cited as one of the first feature films released on DVD in the U.S.
• Early adopters loved using it as a “system seller” because it screamed demo material: big weather, big sound, big spectacle. (Your subwoofer was not safe.)
• That first-wave DVD era helped normalize extras like menus and bonus features—turning movie nights into a nerdy scavenger hunt for deleted scenes and behind-the-scenes bits.

On March 24, 2004, Nintendo unfurled the sails for The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, inviting fans on a high-seas journey in a boldly stylized Hyrule.

Nerdy Facts:

• Cel-Shaded Revolution: Its cartoon-like visuals were initially divisive among fans but later praised for their timeless charm.
• High Seas Exploration: Link traveled by boat across a vast ocean, discovering islands, dungeons, and a cast of unforgettable characters.
• Critical Acclaim: The game’s emotional storytelling and innovative design have made it a standout title in the Zelda franchise.

On March 24, 2005, Sony’s first major handheld console, the PlayStation Portable (PSP), brought console-quality gaming on the go.

Nerdy Facts:

• Sony’s Handheld Debut: The PSP was a direct competitor to Nintendo’s handheld dominance, boasting advanced graphics and multimedia capabilities.
• Media Hub: In addition to games, the PSP played movies, music, and photos, positioning it as a versatile entertainment device.
• Cult Classics: Titles like Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII and Patapon found devoted followings, showcasing the system’s range.

Also on March 24, 2005, NBC introduced The Office, an American adaptation of Ricky Gervais’s British sitcom, featuring Dunder Mifflin’s quirky employees.

Nerdy Facts:

• Mockumentary Style: The show popularized a fly-on-the-wall format, complete with confessional interviews and deadpan camera glances.
• Breakout Stars: Steve Carell, John Krasinski, Jenna Fischer, and Rainn Wilson became household names through their roles.
• Binge-Worthy Phenomenon: Even years after its finale, The Office remains a top-streamed series, continually drawing new fans with its relatable workplace humor.

March 24 celebrates a wrestling giant, a groundbreaking new form of video media, a heroic sailing quest, a breakthrough in portable gaming, and a comedic take on office life. Happy Nerd History Day!