The Million Dollar Homepage, a groundbreaking idea by Alex Tew, first gained widespread attention through an article published by the BBC on September 22, 2005.
This early piece, titled “Student’s Million Dollar Homepage”, introduced the world to the 21-year-old’s ambitious project to sell one million pixels of advertising space for $1 each.
The article detailed Tew’s creative solution to fund his university education, explaining how his idea quickly captured the curiosity of advertisers and media alike. With its blend of simplicity and innovation, the Million Dollar Homepage became a viral sensation, paving the way for Tew’s success.
This BBC coverage marked the first major media exposure for the project, sparking interest worldwide. It highlighted Tew’s determination, early sales, and the novelty of his concept, which would later redefine online advertising strategies.
For those interested in revisiting the origins of this internet phenomenon, the original article remains a fascinating snapshot of how a simple idea transformed into a global sensation.
Read it here: BBC News – Student’s Million Dollar Homepage.