What’s next for Netflix? In an effort to stem the loss of subscribers that was first reported last month and expected to continue in the short term, the streaming service might be seeking out a lineup that looks awfully close to what’s on offer from the broadcast networks.
“Netflix has told Hollywood agencies it’s now looking for large-scale shows with resonance,” according to a report from Business Insider. “In reality programming, that means competitions like classic broadcast hits ‘American Idol’ and ‘The Voice,’ or social experiment shows like ‘Survivor.’ On the scripted side, that means broad comedies, contemporary action thrillers, action comedy and sci-fi that appeals to a mainstream audience — but costs less than $10 million per episode.”
Once streaming became ubiquitous, most shows on broadcast TV were treated with derision. And yet here we are. Everything old is new again. Or maybe Netflix is scrambling and this is just one of many ideas that are in contention. But if the streaming service does attempt to emulate network TV, that would be a pivotal change in philosophy, especially if Netflix eventually gets around to launching a cheaper ad-supported tier. Because then the transformation into old school TV will really be complete. What a strange turn of events. Will enough viewers pay to subscribe to a TV experience they’re already getting for free on NBC or CBS?
