Network television and streaming platforms might be getting cozy, but don’t call it a plot twist just yet. As seasoned network executives are realizing, this burgeoning partnership isn’t merely a passing trend. This season, we saw hits like High Potential, Happy’s Place, and a reboot of Matlock captivate audiences. Fascinatingly, these shows aren’t just thriving on traditional linear platforms; they’re finding substantial success on streaming services as well.
Reportedly, High Potential is a standout case of this dual-platform success, with platforms like Hulu and Disney+ comprising over 40% of its viewership. It’s a staggering figure that highlights the shift in how audiences are tuning in. According to Lisa Katz, NBCUniversal’s president of scripted content, viewers have a myriad of options: they might catch the show live, record it via DVR, or watch it on Peacock at their leisure. The goal here is clear—meet the audience where they are.
Strength in Numbers (and Episodes)
With the rise of cord-cutting, traditional network shows are proving to be a secret weapon for streaming platforms. Fans are savoring the lengthy episode orders of yesteryear’s TV offerings on platforms like Peacock, Hulu, and Paramount+. These deeply rooted series not only bring nostalgic comfort but also cater to younger demographics who prefer binge-watching. For instance, High Potential ranks as the top show for the coveted under-50 demographic when considering both linear and streaming audiences, as noted by Vulture.
Amid this shifting landscape, new series on streaming platforms are embracing the old-school approach, experimenting with longer runs that mimic network television standards. Take Max’s upcoming series The Pitt, boasting a hefty 15-episode season. This approach not only captures viewer interest but is considerably less costly than high-budget productions like House of the Dragon or The Rings of Power.
Plot Thickens: The Irony of Survival
The irony here shouldn’t be lost on anyone: streaming, once seen as the harbinger of traditional TV’s demise, is now breathing new life into traditional linear programming. With savvy execs recognizing the long-term value in character-driven, serialized storytelling, it seems we’ve come full circle. As Simran Sethi of ABC Entertainment and Hulu puts it best, audiences cherish the familiar faces they invite into their living rooms every week. And she predicts that this formula won’t be falling out of style anytime soon.
Closing Credits
The media landscape is rapidly evolving, yet it appears there’s still room for cooperative synergy between streaming platforms and network television. As we head into the future, expect these collaborations to flourish, delivering both nostalgia and innovation. Viewers, rejoice—you’re not merely a passive audience but active participants in this unfolding drama. The closing scene? A reminder that sometimes, reinvention means embracing the very thing you once sought to replace. Stay tuned for how this story develops in the upcoming seasons.
