Why Scripted TV Shows Are Becoming Scarce on Basic Cable

[Y2kTheNewOldies]

As streaming platforms become the priority for dramas and comedies, traditional networks are relying on more cost-effective unscripted series to fill out schedules.
The twilight of basic cable's scripted era has arrived. Steep linear ratings declines and parent companies more concerned with their burgeoning streaming businesses are prompting a new commitment to less expensive nonfiction programming — and even the networks known for original dramas, like TNT and USA, are scaling back.

"Cable is now the comfort food of media," says ITV America CEO David George, a top supplier of unscripted content. "The bigger swings, the scripted swings, are happening at the streamers."
Speaking to investors Jan. 29, WarnerMedia CEO John Stankey announced that his company's own big swings would be reserved for upcoming streamer HBO Max. His suite of legacy Turner networks (TNT, TBS, Tru), in turn, is set to become a more aggressive buyer in the unscripted space. "You can get the same rating at a fraction of the price," adds George. "You can take 30 swings, as opposed to one or two."

https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/why-scripted-tv-shows-are-becoming-scarce-basic-cable-1281036


This Comes as places like Hulu, Disney+, All Access, Netflix, Amazon Prime, Youtube Originals, Peacock and HBO Max fight for Scripted TV Shows.

 

[Don CT]

This guy really wants to drive the place into the ground.