'The Day After' Celebrates 40 Years Since Record-Breaking TV Movie Release
"The Day After," a TV movie about a nuclear attack on Middle America and its aftermath, became the most anticipated and talked-about TV event of 1983. Despite concerns about its graphic depiction of destruction, over 100 million viewers tuned in, making it the most-watched TV movie ever. The film, which explored the human cost of war, received critical acclaim and sparked conversations about nuclear holocaust. It left a lasting impact on viewers, including President Ronald Reagan, who described it as "greatly depressing."