MUMBAI This month the dog icon Lassie celebrates 50 years on television. Lassie has become a symbol of love, trust, and heroism since her series debuted on CBS in 1954.
 
 
Over the course of 691 television episodes, Lassie grew from a movie star into a cultural icon. Enjoying one of the longest runs in television history, Lassie's show became a phenomenon. Millions of fans in more than 100 countries tuned in to watch Lassie save Timmy from tigers, cougars, wells, and other perils.

The show topped the Nielsen ratings, inventing the family drama in the process and is said to have influenced the way in which people relate to their pets. In India, the Lassie movies have aired on different channels.

To celebrate the occasion tomorrow (14 September) Lassie: The 50th TV Anniversary Collector's Edition will be released on DVD and 24 TV episodes will be available in a three-disc collection complete with tonnes of bonus extras.

Lassie is also starring in a new global TV ad campaign for General Electric.