On July 4, 1981, Showtime made a significant transition by ending its part-time schedule and becoming a full-time, 24/7 cable television station. This change allowed Showtime to expand its programming and offer a continuous stream of entertainment, including movies, original series, and special events. The move marked a pivotal moment in the network’s history, positioning it as a major player in the cable TV industry and enhancing its ability to compete with other premium channels.