What major factor contributed to the decline of theater attendance during the Golden Age of Television?

The decline of theater attendance during the Golden Age of Television can be primarily attributed to the widespread availability of television sets. As televisions became more common in households throughout the 1950s and 1960s, families had a new and convenient way to access entertainment without the need to go out to a movie theater. Television offered a variety of programming, including films, series, and special events, often at no additional cost beyond the price of the TV set itself.

This shift in how people consumed media fundamentally changed their entertainment habits. The allure of watching movies and engaging content from the comfort of home made it less appealing for audiences to make the effort to go out for a theatrical experience. Additionally, television programming was often more accessible in terms of scheduling and cost, which contributed to the decrease in theater attendance.

As other options suggest, while increases in ticket prices and a perceived lack of quality films could have played roles in shifting interests, the most impactful element was the expansion and convenience of television as a primary source of entertainment. The emergence of home theaters, while a factor in later years, was not as significant during the initial phase of television's rise.