Lucille Ball, PBS Pioneers of Television Published January 2, 2013 at 600 × 600 in Pioneers of Television Timeline 1951: “I Love Lucy” premieres. The series, starring Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, instantly becomes a major hit. 1951: “I Love Lucy” premieres. The series, starring Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, instantly becomes a major hit.