Jim Janicek Reveals ABC TGIF Acronym True Meaning

Jim Janicek, the creator of ABC's iconic 1990s programming block 'TGIF,' clarified that the acronym stands for 'Thank Goodness It's Funny,' not 'Thank God It's Friday' as widely believed. This decision was partly to avoid legal issues with the TGI Friday's restaurant chain. Janicek discussed these insights on the podcast 'Pod Meets World,' hosted by former 'Boy Meets World' stars. Initially, the network explored other names like 'Friday Fun Club' before settling on TGIF, which became a staple for family-friendly sitcoms. The programming block, including shows like 'Full House' and 'Family Matters,' transformed Friday nights from a TV 'death slot' into a prime viewing time.