Today in Nerd History | September 22

Here’s your Today in Nerd History for September 22, a day packed with iconic sitcoms, legendary wrestling moments, and mysterious island crashes. Whether you’re shouting “Did I do that?” or “We have to go back!”, this lineup is pure pop culture power.

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.

“Family Matters,” a sitcom that became a staple of 90s television, premiered on ABC on September 22, 1989. The show, which began as a spin-off of “Perfect Strangers,” follows the Winslow family in Chicago and quickly became known for its breakout character, Steve Urkel.

Nerdy Facts:

• Urkelmania: Steve Urkel, portrayed by Jaleel White, was originally intended to be a one-time character. However, his popularity soared, and he became the show’s central figure, known for his catchphrase, “Did I do that?”
• Long-Running Success: “Family Matters” ran for nine seasons, making it one of the longest-running sitcoms with a predominantly African-American cast in TV history.
• Crossover Episodes: The show was part of the TGIF lineup on ABC, and it featured crossover episodes with other shows like “Full House” and “Step by Step,” creating a shared universe of 90s sitcoms.

“Friends,” one of the most beloved sitcoms of all time, premiered on NBC on September 22, 1994. The show follows a group of six friends—Ross, Rachel, Monica, Chandler, Joey, and Phoebe—as they navigate life, love, and career challenges in New York City.

Nerdy Facts:

• Instant Hit: “Friends” quickly became a cultural phenomenon, with its blend of humor, relatable characters, and memorable moments. The show’s theme song, “I’ll Be There for You” by The Rembrandts, became an iconic anthem of the 90s.
• Star-Making Roles: The cast—Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry, and David Schwimmer—became household names, with each actor enjoying significant success during and after the show’s run.
• Enduring Popularity: Even after its finale in 2004, “Friends” continues to be popular through reruns and streaming, with new generations discovering and falling in love with the show. The “Friends” reunion special in 2021 was a testament to its lasting impact.

On WCW Monday Nitro, a powerhouse named Goldberg stepped into the ring—and wrestling would never be the same. With explosive intensity and an undefeated streak that became legendary, his debut marked a turning point in WCW history.

Nerdy Facts:

• Goldberg’s first opponent was Hugh Morrus (Bill DeMott), whom he defeated in under three minutes.
• His winning streak was officially listed at 173–0, though the actual number was closer to 155.
• He became WCW World Champion in July 1998 by defeating Hollywood Hogan on live TV—a rare and epic moment.

On September 22, 1997, WWF (now WWE) Monday Night Raw featured the beginning of one of the most iconic rivalries in professional wrestling: Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. Mr. McMahon. This feud became a defining storyline of the Attitude Era, revolutionizing the wrestling industry.

Nerdy Facts:

• Revolutionary Feud: The Austin vs. McMahon rivalry is often credited with helping WWF (WWE) win the Monday Night Wars against WCW. The storyline tapped into the anti-authority sentiment of the time, with Austin representing the rebellious everyman against his tyrannical boss.
• Iconic Moments: The feud produced some of the most memorable moments in wrestling history, including Austin driving a beer truck into the arena, the infamous hospital bed attack, and countless Stunners delivered to Mr. McMahon.
• Lasting Influence: This rivalry not only made Stone Cold Steve Austin one of the biggest stars in wrestling history but also solidified Vince McMahon’s character as the ultimate villain. The storyline’s success has influenced wrestling storylines for decades.

“LOST,” a groundbreaking drama series created by J.J. Abrams, Damon Lindelof, and Jeffrey Lieber, premiered on ABC on September 22, 2004. The show follows the survivors of Oceanic Flight 815, who crash on a mysterious island filled with secrets and dangers.

Nerdy Facts:

• Cultural Phenomenon: “LOST” quickly became a global phenomenon, known for its complex characters, intricate plotlines, and mysterious island setting. The show’s blend of science fiction, mythology, and character-driven drama captivated audiences.
• Innovative Storytelling: The show was praised for its non-linear storytelling, including flashbacks, flash-forwards, and “flash-sideways” sequences that added depth and mystery to the narrative. Each episode often raised more questions than it answered, keeping viewers hooked.
• Legacy: “LOST” ran for six seasons and left a lasting impact on television, influencing future shows with its serialized storytelling and complex mythology. The show’s ending remains one of the most debated and discussed in TV history.

“Gotham,” a prequel series exploring the origins of Batman’s most iconic characters, premiered on Fox on September 22, 2014. The show focuses on a young James Gordon as he navigates the corruption of Gotham City and the rise of notorious villains.

Nerdy Facts:

• Gotham’s Beginnings: “Gotham” delves into the backstories of famous Batman villains like Penguin, Riddler, Catwoman, and Joker, showing their transformation into the iconic characters we know today. The show also chronicles Bruce Wayne’s journey from a traumatized boy to the future Dark Knight.
• Dark and Gritty: The series is known for its dark and gritty tone, reflecting the corrupt and dangerous environment of Gotham City. The show’s stylized visuals and noir-inspired atmosphere set it apart from other superhero adaptations.
• Fan Favorites: “Gotham” developed a loyal fanbase, particularly for its portrayal of characters like Oswald Cobblepot (Penguin), played by Robin Lord Taylor, and Edward Nygma (Riddler), played by Cory Michael Smith, both of whom received critical acclaim for their performances.

From sitcom laughs to stunners in the ring to island mysteries and urban legends, September 22 proves how varied and vibrant pop culture history can be. Whether you’re sipping a giant coffee or delivering a spear, today’s a heavyweight in nerd nostalgia.

Happy Nerd History Day!