Why Are TV Seasons Getting Shorter?

It's hard not to notice the trend: TV seasons are getting shorter. One season might have 24 episodes, while another might stretch out to 10 or even 6. But why is this the case?

The Changing TV Landscape

There's more to the shortening of TV seasons than meets the eye. While the traditional fall premiere season still holds its ground, networks are adapting to new realities. Tighter budgets and the increasing cost of production mean that shorter seasons can actually allow for higher production values.

Why Split and Limited Seasons?

One of the primary reasons is the strategic use of split seasons and limited series. Split seasons, which split a full series into shorter, more manageable parts, and limited seasons, which offer a more concentrated story arc, are becoming more prevalent. These formats are designed to attract and retain viewers in a competitive market where reruns were once the norm.

With the rise of special event series and limited series, these formats have become incredibly popular. The 6-10 episode format is ideal for telling a complete and engaging story arc. Additionally, such formats can attract bigger, more recognizable actors who might not be able to commit to a full 22-24 episode season.

Higher Production Values and Cost

Higher production values are a significant factor. It's no secret that producing a high-quality TV show today is more expensive. A shorter season allows networks to allocate resources more efficiently, resulting in better lighting, better sound, and superior post-production. Hence, you often see high-budget shows despite their shorter run times.

Competition for Viewers

The fierce competition for viewers across all channels and streaming services is another key driver. Today, viewers have shorter attention spans due to the proliferation of content and other distractions. This means that shows need to grab and hold attention more effectively. That's why quality over quantity is a favored strategy.

The Impact of Ratings and Advertising

TV shows that don't generate the ratings needed to support high advertising revenue face challenges. With lower ratings, networks receive less money from advertisers, making it difficult to sustain long seasons. Coupled with ever-rising salaries for actors, it's clear that producing more episodes just isn't economically viable in many cases.

Case Study: Rick and Morty

The animated show Rick and Morty, with its controversial decision to only produce a limited second season, stands as a prime example of the current TV industry trends. The network had faith in the quality of the show, believing that a shorter, more concentrated series would result in higher viewership and better reviews. The show's success proved this approach can be rewarding.

Overall, the shortening of TV seasons is a multifaceted phenomenon driven by budgetary constraints, viewer behavior, and the increasing cost of production. This trend reflects a shift in the industry, favoring high-quality content over quantity, and embracing new formats to ensure longevity and success.