WRAL was originally an NBC affiliate, taking that network from Durham-based WTVD (channel 11, which included Fletcher's son, Floyd, among its founders). When WNAO-TV (channel 28), the Triangle's ABC affiliate, went dark at the end of 1957, This was unusual for a two-station market. ABC was at the time the smallest and weakest of the three major networks; it would not be on par with NBC and CBS in terms of ratings or affiliated stations until the early 1970s. WRAL did, however, continue to carry "The Huntley-Brinkley Report" until January 3, 1967, when ABC's own evening newscasts expanded to 30 minutes. WRAL also continued to carry "My Three Sons" for several years after that show switched networks, from ABC to CBS.