In the summer of 2015, FX Networks executive John Landgraf coined the term “peak TV” to describe the unprecedented increase of original scripted series for basic cable, premium cable, and, in time, streaming services in the United States. The increase in programming was not just a domestic topic, since these original series, in turn, became ever present on television platforms around the world. Landgraf’s original argument was that the content market was saturated and would “peak” in 2016, and that the previous decade had witnessed a move away from broadcast networks to basic and premium platforms. And while one can argue that streaming services such as Netflix and Apple TV are now dominant, it is important to understand the role of basic and premium services over this period. This study focuses on two groups that were driving forces behind peak TV: basic cable networks AMC, FX, TNT and USA, and premium cable services HBO, Showtime and Starz! The primary research question is how the number of original scripted series increased and decreased from 2008 through 2023. Two related questions address the percentage of these series in which the cable network holds a financial interest and the percentage produced in locations that makes them eligible for production incentive. The measure of the four basic services shows a peak of 42 in 2014 followed by a dramatic decline to just 12 in 2023. The premium service have been most stable, ranging between 30 and 39 originals combine from 2016 through 2023.

Authors:
William Kunz, University of Washington Tacoma, United States

About the Presenter(s)
Professor William Kunz is a University Professor/Principal Lecturer at University of Washington Tacoma in United States

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