The Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau, and its entirety, consisted of 36 episodes, and was hugely popular upon its airing. During the 9 years the series was broadcasted, the importance and beauty of the ocean were highlighted to the millions who sat before their television screens. Cousteau had become a skilled and recognized film maker, and the world  was finally turning its attention to the seas.

In 1974 however, the series was unexpected dropped by the broadcasting company,  which explained that ratings and viewership among the younger views dropped significantly. Fundings were cut, but thankfully, Cousteau had enough footage for the series to see till its end.

By now, Cousteau was 64 years old. He was slowly realising that funding was the key factor in order for his films to continue successfully. Previously, he would only look for funders and sponsors when he needed to. Under a business consultant’s advice, Cousteau set up the nonprofit organization Cousteau Society, in hopes of securing more grants in the name of research and education. He was chairman of the society, his consultant the president, and Cousteau’s sons were appointed vice presidents. Jean-Michel was visibly upset at his father’s choice for the candidate of president of the society, but stayed in his position for many years.

The Cousteau Society took off, with 120 000 members applying to be members. With their finances secured, Cousteau attempted to make another documentary series to highlight environmental disasters around the world. Responses from broadcasting companies were however lukewarm, and Cousteau used the society’s funds to film Oasis in Space. The series was released in 1977, and won Cousteau an Emmy. His son, Philippe, won the award for producer of the best television documentary that year.