USA Network and World Wrestling Entertainment will celebrate 15 years of the Monday Night Raw franchise with a three-hour TV special, debuting Dec. 10 at 8 p.m.
A cable staple since it debuted on USA in1993, WWE Monday Night Raw has been a top-rated basic cable entertainment series on week-in, week-out basis, since it began airing live in 1999. Raw, which took a five-year turn on Spike TV, before returning to USA in October 2005, was the birthplace of such household grappling names as The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, Triple H, John Cena, Undertaker, Shawn Michaels, Mick Foley, Trish Stratus and Stacy Keibler.
“It's hard to believe it's been 15 years since Raw redefined the television landscape,” said Bonnie Hammer, president of USA Network and Sci Fi Channel,” in a statement. “It's an incredible run for a one-of-a-kind entertainment franchise, and we're thrilled to celebrate with Vince, Linda and the entire WWE family.”
Noted Vince McMahon, chairman of World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.: “With its ever changing blend of athleticism, humor, action, drama, soap opera and rock concert content, Monday Night Raw continues with a variety show concept that appeals to a variety of demographics generation after generation. As proud members of the USA family, the WWE would like to invite all those who have enjoyed Monday Night Raw at one time or another these past 15 years to celebrate with us during our 15-year anniversary special live on USA December 10.”
