Why Are Children's Shows Like Cartoons Shown Late at Night When Kids Are Asleep?
Have you ever wondered why shows like 'Grim Adventures of Billy Mandy' and other animated series aimed at younger audiences are often aired late at night, even though children are usually asleep? This practice has deep roots in television history and holds several significant reasons behind it. Let’s delve into the various factors and explore the history of late-night TV and how it has shaped the broadcasting of these shows.
Historical Context and the Evolution of Late Night Television
1960-1970: Post-War Healing and Work-Life Balance
Following World War II, television played a vital role in healing post-war trauma and fitting back into societal norms. Extensive exposure to cartoons during this period helped individuals, particularly adults, cope with the residual effects of the war. Simultaneously, late-night workers relied on TV test patterns with date and time to ensure they could wake up at 2 AM for their shifts as bakers, cleaners, and other night workers. Evening television broadcasts typically ended at midnight on weekends, catering to a specific schedule and audience.
1980-1990: 24-Hour Television
By the 1980s and 1990s, television networks had transitioned to 24-hour operations, significantly expanding the timing and variety of programming. Late-night television now included various shows, not just news or chat programmes, but also educational and entertainment segments. Networks began to train their staff to manually add advertising and engage with viewers, even for late-night viewing. The presence of long pause markers in cartoons facilitated ad break button pushers, making the viewing experience more seamless for both viewers and advertisers.
Why Are Children's Shows Shown Late at Night?
Targeting Adult Viewership
One of the primary reasons for airing children's shows late at night is to cater to adult viewership. Many adults continue to enjoy animated series, often for nostalgia or as a source of adult-oriented content, including complex storylines and mature themes. Shows like 'Grim Adventures of Billy Mandy' or 'Ren Stimpy' attract a substantial adult audience who appreciate the depth and humor in these series.
Nighttime Entertainment for Adults
Nocturnal adults, including students and young professionals, often stay up late for various reasons, such as studying, working, or socializing. These viewers find solace and entertainment in late-night cartoons, particularly if they are in a state of being 'high,' which further increases the viewership for these shows. Pipeline networks and stations often program late-night shows with the expectation that these late-night audience members will tune in.
Recordable Content and Viewer Convenience
The advent of recording technology has also impacted how these shows are viewed. Many people record late-night cartoons for their children to watch during more appropriate hours, such as before bedtime on weekends or during prime time on Sundays. This practice not only enriches the viewing experience for families but also ensures that the content remains accessible to a broader audience.
Older Shows and Nostalgia
Some of the most well-known shows, such as 'Rocky and Bullwinkle,' are often aired late at night due to their nostalgic appeal. These shows, which were originally designed for a younger audience, continue to attract viewers decades later. Older shows provide a sense of nostalgia and can be enjoyed by both children and adults, making them a valuable asset to late-night programming.
Conclusion
The practice of airing children's shows like cartoons late at night is rooted in a combination of historical context, targeted viewership, and the evolving nature of television. By catering to adult viewership and addressing the needs of nocturnal audiences, networks are able to maximize the value of their programming schedules and maintain a diverse and engaged viewer base.