What is WWE Friday Night SmackDown?
WWE Friday Night SmackDown is a weekly professional wrestling program produced by WWE that features scripted matches, storylines, and athletic competition. The show airs on Friday evenings and showcases wrestlers from the SmackDown brand.
When did WWE Friday Night SmackDown debut?
The show debuted on April 29 1999 as a one‑hour special on UPN, and it became a regular two‑hour weekly series on August 26 1999.
Which network originally aired SmackDown?
The first episodes were broadcast on the UPN network, where the program quickly became a prime‑time hit.
Has SmackDown always aired on UPN?
No. After UPN, the show moved to The CW in 2006, MyNetworkTV in 2008, Syfy in 2010, USA Network in 2015, and Fox in 2019.
How long is each episode?
During its early run the program ran for two hours, including commercials. The runtime has varied with network changes, but the core content remains a 90‑ to 120‑minute show.
Who are the main commentators on SmackDown?
Long‑time commentators include Joe Tessitore for play‑by‑play and Wade Barrett for color commentary. Additional commentators have appeared over the years, such as Tazz, Jim Ross, and Michael Cole.
What is the brand split and how does it affect SmackDown?
The 2002 brand split created separate rosters for Raw and SmackDown, giving each show its own exclusive talent. SmackDown’s brand identity and storylines have since been distinct from Raw.
Which wrestlers were key to SmackDown’s early success?
Early stars such as The Rock, Triple H, Stone Cold Steve Austin, Mankind, and The Undertaker were featured prominently, drawing viewers and setting the tone for future shows.
When did the show start airing live broadcasts?
In 2005, SmackDown began live broadcasts on Friday nights, replacing the previous taped schedule and adding immediacy to its storytelling.
Is SmackDown available on streaming platforms?
Yes, episodes are available on WWE’s streaming service and on Peacock for new episodes. Older episodes can be streamed on WWE Network and other platforms.
How does SmackDown differ from WWE Raw?
Both shows feature scripted wrestling, but SmackDown focuses on its own brand roster, storylines, and championship titles distinct from Raw. The two programs often have different commentary teams and occasional cross‑over matches.
Does SmackDown feature championship matches?
Yes, every episode often includes at least one match for a WWE title, such as the WWE Championship, Intercontinental Championship, or Tag Team Championship.
How many seasons has SmackDown aired?
Since its debut in 1999, SmackDown has produced over 27 seasons and more than 1,300 episodes, making it one of WWE’s longest‑running shows.
Are there notable special episodes of SmackDown?
Yes, special episodes such as the 500th and 1,000th episode celebrations, holiday-themed shows, and milestone events have aired, featuring surprise appearances and championship bouts.
Who hosts or presents the show?
The show is typically presented by the commentary team, with occasional hosts for special segments. The primary presenters are the commentators listed above.
Was SmackDown affected by the COVID‑19 pandemic?
In 2020, live crowds were temporarily removed and the show was taped in a studio with a virtual audience, following WWE’s pandemic protocols.
What was the viewership like in the early years?
In 1999, SmackDown averaged around 6.5 million viewers, nearly matching Raw’s audience, and became UPN’s top‑rated series.
When did SmackDown move to Fox?
The show moved to Fox on October 4 2019, marking its return to Friday night prime‑time television on a broadcast network.
Do pay‑per‑view events relate to SmackDown?
Many WWE pay‑per‑view events feature matches that begin storylines on SmackDown, and the show often promotes upcoming PPVs through in‑program segments.
How can I watch new episodes of SmackDown?
New episodes air on Fox every Friday night at 8 p.m. ET and can also be streamed on Peacock. International viewers may watch through local broadcasters or WWE’s global streaming service.
Is there a DVD collection of SmackDown?
WWE has released DVD compilations of special SmackDown episodes and milestone events, but most fans now access content through digital platforms.
What is the content rating for SmackDown?
The show is rated TV‑PG for mild violence, language, and thematic elements, suitable for older children with parental guidance.
What was SmackDown’s original theme song?
Early SmackDown episodes used the theme “The Rock” theme, with later seasons adopting “Rise Up” by Drowning Pool and other tracks.
How has the format of SmackDown evolved over time?
From a taped two‑hour special to a live Friday night broadcast, the show added a more dynamic set, expanded commentary, and integrated cross‑brand storylines as WWE’s roster grew.
What are some memorable moments from the early SmackDown years?
Notable moments include The Rock’s early championship challenges, the debut of Stone Cold’s “Stone Cold Stunner,” and the first televised “Hell in a Cell” match, which set the tone for future high‑stakes encounters.