Exploring the Popularity of US TV Shows in Australia

Over the years, the landscape of television in Australia has evolved significantly, and one aspect that has captured the attention of many viewers is the import of US TV shows. Let's delve into why these American series have managed to gain traction and popularity in the Australian market.

The Evolution of Viewing Habits in Australia

Back in the 1970s and 1980s, the viewing habits in Australia were quite different from today. In those earlier times, only a limited number of US TV shows were aired on Australian television, with some notable exceptions. For instance, titles like M*A*S*H, The Waltons, and The Love Boat were relatively well-known, but overall, the selection was quite restricted.

Local soap operas and sitcoms dominated the Australian television airwaves, with shows like As the World Turns and Bewitched taking the stage. However, the situation began to change in the late 20th century, and this evolution can largely be attributed to two key factors: technology and economics.

Technological Advancements and Their Impact

The technological advancements of the late 20th and early 21st centuries have played a crucial role in making US TV shows more accessible in Australia. One major factor is the technological prowess of satellite and cable systems, which dramatically reduced the cost of converting American shows to the Australian TV standard.

Back in the 1970s, the cost of the equipment needed for such conversions was exorbitant. An example of such a piece of equipment was a large and expensive television converter that cost around AUD 100,000, equivalent to about $500,000 today. Nowadays, similar functionality can be achieved with a cheap set-top box, making US TV shows more affordable for Australian viewers.

Economic Factors and Data Costs

Economic factors, particularly the cost of data, also played a significant role. The cost of calling the US in the 1960s was prohibitive, costing AUD 15 per minute. In today's world, the cost of data connections has dropped significantly, with some set-top boxes now costing as little as AUD 20, making the viewing experience more accessible and affordable for the masses.

Popular US TV Shows in Australia

As mentioned earlier, the selection of US TV shows in Australia has expanded significantly over the years. Some of the most popular US TV shows in Australia include:

In the 1970s and 1980s, shows like M*A*S*H, The Waltons, and The Love Boat were quite popular. Going into the 1990s and 2000s, shows like The West Wing, The Golden Girls, Hogan's Heroes, The Big Bang Theory, Two and a Half Men, and How I Met Your Mother gained a significant following. Modern shows like Survivor, Big Bang Theory, and Breaking Bad are also popular today.

These shows range from classic sitcoms to crime dramas and reality TV programs, demonstrating the diverse tastes of Australian viewers.

The Modern Television Landscape in Australia

Today, the television landscape in Australia is far more diverse than it was in the past. Australian viewers can now enjoy a wide array of US TV shows, including many of the most popular ones in the US. This accessibility has led to a shift in the dominance of local programming, with many cable and satellite channels broadcasting a mix of Australian and American content.

Interestingly, not only are US TV shows popular, but the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) has also faced a challenge from the Australian government, which is trying to control more of the media landscape. The right wing Australian "Liberal" Party is attempting to take over more control of the ABC, which is much like the BBC and CBC, and hand it over to media mogul Rupert Murdoch. This scenario would significantly alter the television broadcasting landscape in Australia.

Conclusion

The popularity of US TV shows in Australia has a rich history and continues to evolve with technological and economic advancements. From blockbuster sitcoms to crime dramas, these shows have captured the hearts of millions of Australian viewers, shaping the television culture in the country. As the broadcasting landscape continues to change, one thing is certain—the allure of American television content remains a strong and enduring part of Australian life.