– Network dramas could potentially save 13-episode seasons
– Resolution of strikes needs to be reached soon
– Industry veteran shares optimism despite ongoing challenges
Network dramas may be able to salvage 13-episode seasons if strikes come to an end soon, according to a veteran TV industry executive producer. With several writers’ and actors’ strikes impacting the television landscape, there is a sense of urgency for networks to figure out how to navigate these challenges.
However, the executive producer, who chose to remain anonymous, offers a glimpse of hope for the industry. They explained, “If the strikes don’t last much longer, most shows can still get 13 episodes done, production-wise. The only question is where that lines up with the network schedules.” The key to saving these shortened seasons lies in the swift resolution of the ongoing labor disputes.
Though the notion of a 13-episode season may seem like a compromise, it could also mean a higher quality of storytelling. The producer further added, “In a world where there are 500 television shows, does every season of every show need to be 22 episodes? I would argue that it doesn’t, and that’s where the industry is headed over the next decade.” They believe that, in the future, television may follow the trend of shorter, more focused seasons.
However, for this optimistic outlook to become a reality, the ongoing strikes need to be resolved quickly. While the industry veteran shares a hopeful perspective, there is no doubt that the television landscape has become increasingly challenging due to labor conflicts.