The Global Influence of New York and Los Angeles on U.S. Television: A Multifaceted Analysis

The television industry in the United States is often perceived as dominated by two major hubs: New York and Los Angeles. However, the reality is more complex. While these cities play a significant role, other regions, especially Georgia, have also seen major growth in the production and filmmaking sectors.

New York vs Los Angeles: Creative and Financial Centers

Traditionally, Hollywood, Los Angeles, has been the mecca of the entertainment industry, a place where creative teams, directors, and producers come together to bring their ideas to life. However, this has not been the case for all aspects of television and film production. New York City, with its financial power and cultural influence, has also played a critical role, particularly in approving major projects and providing financial support.

While Los Angeles continues to lead in creative oversight and art direction, New York often has the final say in financial matters. Take, for instance, ESPN, which is technically based in Bristol, Connecticut. Despite its physical location, ESPN ultimately requires sign-offs from New York and Los Angeles. Similarly, Disney's corporate offices in New York and Los Angeles ensure that major decisions align with the company's strategic direction.

Georgia's Growth in the Television Production Industry

Georgia, often referred to as the "Peach State," has surged to the forefront, becoming the leading producer of films and television shows. In 2016, Georgia overtook California in terms of the number of productions filmed within its borders. Key players in the industry, such as Tyler Perry Productions, Turner Entertainment (headed by Ted Turner), and EUE/Screen Gems (led by George Clooney), have established their headquarters in Atlanta.

Since then, a number of high-profile television series have been produced and filmed in Georgia. The critically acclaimed The Walking Dead, Stranger Things, and the hit series Archer from FX were all filmed in Atlanta. Furthermore, major networks like Cartoon Network and Adult Swim, which are also based in Atlanta, have further solidified the city's position as a significant player in the television industry.

Trajectory of Network Television

For network television, the situation remains relatively unchanged. Channels like CBS, NBC, and ABC are still based in the New York City area, and their broadcast signals are consistent across the country. Fun fact: when you visit the New York City area, you will see the same TV channels as in Los Angeles. For instance, Channel 2 broadcasts CBS (Columbia Broadcasting System), Channel 4 broadcasts NBC (National Broadcasting Co.), and Channel 7 broadcasts ABC (American Broadcasting Co.).

This uniformity simplifies the viewing experience for audiences who maintain a sense of familiarity across different regions. However, it is worth noting that the creative decisions and approvals for individual shows usually go through both New York and Los Angeles, ensuring a balance between artistic vision and financial viability.

In summary, while New York and Los Angeles remain the primary centers of creativity and financial approval in the U.S. television industry, other regions, such as Georgia, have emerged as significant players. The interplay between these cities, and the various regions within the country, continues to shape the television landscape in complex and interesting ways.