The Evolution of TV Series Episode Production in the Digital Age

Television production is a dynamic industry, continually evolving with new technologies and platforms. From its origins in the 1980s with cable networks to the modern era dominated by digital platforms like Netflix, the way we produce and consume television has changed dramatically.

The Traditional Model: 22/24 Episodes

In the traditional television model, series are often produced with a set number of episodes, usually 22-24 per season. This model follows a structured process:

Network Pitching: Networks receive numerous script pitches and select the best ones to move forward. Script Selection: The most promising scripts are greenlit and developed into pilot episodes. Pilot Testing: These pilots are shown to focus groups and networks to gauge audience reaction. Full Series Commitment: If the pilot is well-received, the network decides to order a full series, greenlighting a writers’ room to create weekly episodes for the next 22-24 weeks. Production and Air: The episodes are produced and air on a weekly basis. Risk Management: Networks may order a limited number of episodes initially to test series performance. If the show performs well, additional episodes are ordered; if not, the series may be cancelled early.

The Impact of Digital Platforms: Smaller Seasons and Decentralized Decision-Making

The rise of digital platforms like Netflix has led to significant changes in TV series production, particularly in terms of episode creation and scheduling:

Seasonal Episodes: Many modern series are produced in smaller batches, with 13, 10, 8, or even 6 episodes per season, rather than the traditional 22-24 episodes. Decision-Making Flexibility: These short seasons allow for more flexibility in decision-making. Networks or production companies can decide whether to continue a series based on the performance of each season, rather than committing to a full 22-24 episodes upfront. Risk Mitigation: By ordering fewer episodes initially, digital platforms can mitigate financial risks. If a series does not perform well, they can cancel it after a smaller investment, preserving resources for potential hits.

Example: How Netflix Operates

Netflix, a pioneer in digital television, operates differently from traditional networks. Here’s how their model works:

Seasonal Ordering: Netflix orders entire seasons rather than individual episodes, allowing them to control the release schedule and viewer experience. Viewing Analytics: They use extensive data analytics to track ratings and viewer engagement, making data-driven decisions on whether to continue a series based on this feedback. Trial Pitches: Netflix may initially pitch a full season of episodes to producers and then decide whether to greenlight the series based on the execution and initial reception.

Implications for the Future

The changing landscape of television production has significant implications for the future:

Increased Flexibility: Smaller production schedules offer creators greater flexibility and innovation. Data-Driven Decisions: The reliance on data analytics allows for more informed choices, reducing production risks. Collapse of Linear Model: The linear model of weekly episode releases is giving way to more flexible seasonal releases, catering to the binge-watching culture of today’s viewers.

In conclusion, the evolution of TV series episode production is a testament to the industry’s adaptability and its willingness to embrace new technologies and platforms. As digital platforms continue to shape the landscape, traditional networks are also evolving to incorporate these changes, ensuring that the television industry remains dynamic and responsive to viewer preferences.