WQED Launched New Dead Air Horror Series
The network has introduced a Halloween-themed programming slate to celebrate Pittsburgh's horror traditions.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Horror
Live Poll
Do you value local public television stations creating programs focused specifically on your region's history?
WQED-TV has launched a series titled Dead Air, which features digitized archival footage to honor local horror and Halloween history. The broadcast schedule includes specialized documentaries and screenings throughout the month.
Why it matters
This programming initiative aims to preserve and celebrate the Pittsburgh region's deep historical ties to the horror genre and Halloween traditions. By utilizing archival materials, the station provides a curated look back at local cultural milestones.
The programming includes a 1979 portrait of Tom Savini and a 1991 documentary by Rick Sebak on Romero, with archival stories dating from 2004 to 2008.
The players
WQED-TV
This public television station serves the Pittsburgh area and is known for producing local cultural and historical content.
Tom Savini
He is a renowned special effects artist and actor who became famous for his work on numerous horror films.
The Oaks Theater
This historic independent cinema venue is located in Oakmont and frequently hosts community film screenings.
The details
WQED digitized archival footage for the series, which complements a free screening of Night of the Living Dead at the Oaks Theater in Oakmont. Viewers can also access PBS KIDS Halloween programming blocks during the final week of October.
Timeline
October 25, 2026: PBS KIDS Halloween programming block
October 27, 2026: Live screening of Night of the Living Dead
October 29, 2026: Tom Savini documentary broadcast
October 30, 2026: PBS KIDS Halloween programming block
October 31, 2026: Night of the Living Dead broadcast
Industry Dynamics
The programming schedule follows the cultural precedent set by George A. Romero's 1968 film Night of the Living Dead by focusing on local horror legacy. This series extends the legacy of the film by institutionalizing regional horror traditions through archival preservation.
Residents can watch the series every Thursday at 8 p.m. or attend the free screening at the Oaks Theater, though the latter requires advance registration. Families can also access specific Halloween-themed blocks for children throughout late October.
The takeaway
Engaging with local archival programming offers a deeper understanding of the cultural history behind iconic film genres. Audiences can take advantage of these free screenings and broadcasts to celebrate community-specific traditions during the Halloween season.
Further reading
Learn more about the region's connection to the genre at Pittsburgh Horror.
More information
View the Full Dead Air programming schedule to plan your viewing.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Heraldstandard.
Live Poll
Do you value local public television stations creating programs focused specifically on your region's history?
