Why did television show seasons use to have 20-24 episodes, while most seasons nowadays contain 10-13 episodes?
I suspect you're comparing major network shows, which still typically have 20-24 episodes, with the more recent influx of popular shows from other sources: HBO and other premium channels, Hulu/Netflix/Amazon/etc, and BBC imports. The major network shows stick to their format because network progr…
The Short Answer
I suspect you're comparing major network shows, which still typically have 20-24 episodes, with the more recent influx of popular shows from other sources: HBO and other premium channels, Hulu/Netflix/Amazon/etc, and BBC imports. The major network shows stick to their format because network programming is really strongly tied to the calendar, and they have a formula that maximizes ad revenue and doesn't tolerate a lot of variation. The other sources, on the other hand, aren't beholden to seasonal advertising calendars, so they use whatever structure best fits their needs. And with the current interest in strong writing, character development, and production quality — which results in shows suitable for "binge-watching" — many have chosen to make fewer episodes with greater quality.
Analysis
Key Concepts: Shows, network, major
This explanation focuses on shows, network, major and spans 124 words across 4 sentences. At 75% above the average Nature explanation (71 words), this is one of the more thorough answers in this category, reflecting the complexity of the underlying question.
What This Answer Covers
The explanation opens with: “I suspect you're comparing major network shows, which still typically have 20-24 episodes, with the more recent influx o” It then elaborates by explaining the root cause, ultimately building toward a complete picture across 4 connected points.
How This Compares in Nature
Ranked #67 of 500 Nature questions by answer depth (top 14%). This places it in the comprehensive tier — the top quarter of most thoroughly answered questions. Questions at this depth typically involve multi-faceted topics requiring nuanced explanation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why television show seasons use to have 20-24 episodes, while most seasons nowadays contain 10-13 episodes?
I suspect you're comparing major network shows, which still typically have 20-24 episodes, with the more recent influx of popular shows from other sources: HBO and other premium channels, Hulu/Netflix/Amazon/etc, and BBC imports. The major network…
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Nature questions?
This is one of the most thorough answer at 124 words, ranked #67 of 500 Nature questions by depth. The key concepts covered are shows, network, major.
What approach does this answer take to explain television show seasons use to have 20-24 episodes, while mo?
The explanation uses root cause analysis across 124 words. It is categorized under Nature and addresses the question through 1 analytical lens.