On this day in pop culture history: Stephen King released two books at once

19 years ago today, prolific author Stephen King released two novels at once. One was “Desperation,” under his own name, and “The Regulators,” published under the pseudonym Richard Bachman.

The two books are “mirrors” of each other, taking place in parallel universes, and most of the characters in one novel exist in the other novel”s reality.

Other notable Sept. 24 happenings in pop culture history:

• 1955: Judy Garland made her TV debut on CBS variety show “Ford Star Jubilee.”

• 1968: The first episode of “60 Minutes” aired on CBS. It remains the longest-running American show airing during primetime.

• 1968: The Beatles recorded “Happiness Is A Warm Gun.”

• 1975: “Three Days of the Condor,” starring Robert Redford and Faye Dunaway, opened in theaters.

• 1984: “Happy Days” aired the finale of its 11th and final season on ABC.

• 1989: NBC aired a 15th anniversary special for “Saturday Night Live.” The telecast featured Chevy Chase and Garrett Morris in the cold open, Tom Hanks delivering the opening monologue and music performances from Prince and Paul Simon.

• 1991: Nirvana released their second studio album, “Nevermind.”

• 1996: The 200th episode of “Roseanne” aired on ABC.

• 2001: Britney Spears” single “I”m a Slave 4 U” was released.

• 2007: “The Big Bang Theory” aired its series premiere on CBS.

Birthdays: “The Incredibles” director Brad Bird (turns 57 today), celebrity chef Robert Irvine (50), “Pitch Perfect” actor Ben Platt (22), “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” actress Nia Vardalos, Kermit puppeteer Steve Whitmire (56)

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