When Did Sailor Moon Air in the US?
Sailor Moon, the iconic Japanese anime series, has been a beloved favorite among fans worldwide for decades. The show’s blend of action, adventure, and romance has captivated audiences of all ages. But when did Sailor Moon first air in the United States?
Early Attempts
Before Sailor Moon officially premiered in the US, there were a few attempts to bring the series to American shores. In the early 1990s, a company called Toei Animation attempted to distribute Sailor Moon in the US, but it failed to gain traction. The series was initially met with skepticism by American audiences, who were unfamiliar with the concept of magical girls and Japanese animation.
First US Broadcast
Sailor Moon finally made its US debut on September 7, 1995, on KTTV (Channel 11) in Los Angeles, California. The series was broadcast in its original Japanese language with English subtitles. This initial broadcast was a test run, and the show’s popularity quickly grew, leading to a wider distribution deal.
US Distribution
In 1996, Saban Entertainment, a subsidiary of Haim Saban, acquired the rights to distribute Sailor Moon in the US. Saban was known for its successful distribution of other Japanese anime series, such as Mighty Morphin Power Rangers. Saban’s involvement helped to increase Sailor Moon’s visibility and popularity in the US.
English Dub
In 1998, Saban released an English dubbed version of Sailor Moon, which was broadcast on WB Network (now The CW) and Kids’ WB. The dubbed version was a significant departure from the original Japanese version, with changes to the storylines, character designs, and music.
US Air Dates
Here is a breakdown of Sailor Moon’s US air dates:
| Season | US Air Dates |
|---|---|
| 1 | September 7, 1995 – March 29, 1996 |
| 2 | March 30, 1996 – September 28, 1996 |
| 3 | September 29, 1996 – March 29, 1997 |
| 4 | March 30, 1997 – September 27, 1997 |
| 5 | September 28, 1997 – March 28, 1998 |
Impact and Legacy
Sailor Moon’s US debut had a significant impact on the anime industry. The show’s popularity helped to pave the way for other Japanese anime series to be distributed in the US. Sailor Moon also inspired a new generation of fans, many of whom went on to create their own fan art, cosplay, and fan fiction.
Conclusion
Sailor Moon first aired in the US on September 7, 1995, on KTTV in Los Angeles. The series was initially broadcast in its original Japanese language with English subtitles before being dubbed into English and broadcast on WB Network and Kids’ WB. Sailor Moon’s US debut marked a significant milestone in the history of anime in the US and paved the way for other Japanese series to be distributed in the country.
Additional Resources
- Sailor Moon Official Website: www.sailormoon.com
- Toei Animation Official Website: www.toei-anim.co.jp
- Saban Entertainment Official Website: www.saban.com
Table: Sailor Moon US Air Dates
| Season | US Air Dates |
|---|---|
| 1 | September 7, 1995 – March 29, 1996 |
| 2 | March 30, 1996 – September 28, 1996 |
| 3 | September 29, 1996 – March 29, 1997 |
| 4 | March 30, 1997 – September 27, 1997 |
| 5 | September 28, 1997 – March 28, 1998 |
Bullets: Key Points
• Sailor Moon first aired in the US on September 7, 1995, on KTTV in Los Angeles.
• The series was initially broadcast in its original Japanese language with English subtitles.
• Saban Entertainment acquired the rights to distribute Sailor Moon in the US in 1996.
• An English dubbed version of Sailor Moon was released in 1998 and broadcast on WB Network and Kids’ WB.
• Sailor Moon’s US debut marked a significant milestone in the history of anime in the US.
