ZeD debuts

from CBC.ca archives
Sat, 20 Apr 2002

The Vancouver-based convergent TV/internet initiative known as “ZeD beta v0.1” makes a soft launch at zed.cbc.ca and on late night television.

The project, billed as “CBC Television’s launch pad for creative expression,” is an eclectic mix of new artists, short films and public input, which helps shape the show. More than 50,000 creative uploads are eventually submitted before the show’s cancellation in 2006.

Toronto Star media critic Antonia Zerbisias praises the program as revolutionary and risk-taking, arguing that ZeD represents, "things public broadcasting should be about: non-commercial innovation and experimentation, interaction with the audience and contributions from young filmmakers."

Conversely, the highly critical CBC Watch website was happy to see ZeD’s sometimes racy content off the airwaves, saying that, “CBC's ZeD will mostly be remembered for taking the 'L' out of public broadcasting.”

Visit the ZeD website