Today in Nerd History | March 28

March 28 brings futuristic animation, a real-life card-counting caper, a legendary wrestler’s farewell, and a delightfully handcrafted platformer. Let’s explore some Nerdy Facts about Futurama, 21, Shawn Michaels’ final match, and Yoshi’s Crafted World!

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 28, 1999, Matt Groening’s Futurama rocketed onto Fox, following the misadventures of pizza delivery guy Fry in the 31st century.

Nerdy Facts:

• Voice Versatility: Billy West, the voice behind Fry, is also the voice of many other characters on the show, including Professor Farnsworth, Dr. Zoidberg, and Zapp Brannigan, showcasing an impressive range of vocal talent.
• Mathematical Mischief: “Futurama” is known for its complex mathematical jokes and theories, contributed by the show’s writing team, which included members with advanced degrees in mathematics and science.
• A Cult Classic: Despite being canceled and revived multiple times, “Futurama” has maintained a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim, proving its enduring appeal and influence in pop culture.

On March 28, 2008, 21 hit theaters, dramatizing the true story of MIT students who used card-counting strategies to beat casinos in Las Vegas.

Nerdy Facts:

• Based on a Bestseller: The film took inspiration from Ben Mezrich’s book Bringing Down the House, chronicling the group’s high-stakes exploits.
• Star Power: Kevin Spacey, Jim Sturgess, and Kate Bosworth led the cast, boosting the film’s box-office draw.
• Controversial Adaptation: While successful at the box office, some critics debated how faithfully it portrayed the real-life team.

On March 28, 2010, WWE legend Shawn Michaels faced The Undertaker in a “Streak vs. Career” match at WrestleMania XXVI, marking the end of Michaels’ in-ring career.

Nerdy Facts:

• An Iconic Career: Shawn Michaels is often regarded as one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time, known for his charismatic performances, athletic prowess, and headline-making matches.
• End of an Era: The match with The Undertaker not only marked the end of Michaels’ in-ring career but also solidified the WrestleMania legacy of both performers, with The Undertaker extending his streak to 18-0.
• A Legacy Lives On: Despite retiring from active competition, Shawn Michaels has remained involved in the wrestling world, including a role as a trainer and on-screen personality in WWE’s NXT brand, influencing the next generation of wrestlers.

On March 28, 2019, Nintendo’s adorable dinosaur returned in Yoshi’s Crafted World, bringing a charming, DIY-inspired adventure to the Switch.

Nerdy Facts:

• Flip It and Reverse It: One of the game’s unique features is the ability to “flip” stages and explore the world from a new perspective, revealing secrets and hidden paths in Yoshi’s crafty environment.
• Co-op Creativity: Yoshi’s Crafted World supports cooperative play, allowing two players to team up as Yoshi characters of different colors, making the adventure twice as fun and accessible for players of all ages.
• A World of Imagination: The game’s levels are designed to look like dioramas, created with a mix of everyday objects and crafting supplies, such as cardboard and yarn, inspiring a sense of wonder and nostalgia in players.

March 28 celebrates comedic sci-fi, a real-life casino heist, the heartbreaking exit of a wrestling icon, and a playful Nintendo adventure. Happy Nerd History Day!