Why Will an American Non-News Prime Time Television Show Last 40 Years?
When considering the question of whether an American non-news prime time television show could last for 40 years, it's essential to delve into the genre's evolving nature and the critical factors that contribute to a show's longevity. From classic sitcoms to beloved reruns, the landscape of prime time entertainment has seen many changing trends and dynamics. Let's explore the conditions that could make a show last so long and the challenges it faces.
Popularity and Genre
Firstly, it's important to cull any shows that vaguely fall into the pseudo-reality TV genre, focusing instead on non-voyeuristic content. One clear example that comes to mind is The Simpsons, which has already spanned 29 years. However, it's worth noting that the quality of the show has visibly declined in recent years with a reduced writing team, leading to a diminishment in the depth of the jokes.
Another long-running, non-voyeur show is the game show Jeopardy!, which is celebrating its 34th year. The longevity of Jeopardy! can be attributed to its format, content, and audience demographics, three consistent and crucial factors.
The Role of Content and Audience
The critical factor in the success of a long-running show is the appropriateness of its content. Jocko Benoit's observations on this topic stress that the show must be suitable for its audience and tackle themes in a way that resonates with viewers over a prolonged period. For instance, the re-run attempts of Love Thy Neighbour (a fundamentally racist show from its origin) were met with disapproval and short-lived success, highlighting the importance of the timing and context of content.
On the other hand, series like The Good Life, Some Mother's Do 'Ave 'Em, Are You Being Served, and Keeping Up Appearances have managed to maintain a strong following due to their timeless humor, camp comedy, and clever social commentary. The South African episode of The Goodies, in particular, proved highly successful in engaging audiences without crossing the line of political correctness.
The Evolution of Pseudo-Reality TV and its Impact
The rise of pseudo-reality TV has significantly impacted the trajectory of long-running shows. Content that once relied on satirical humor and clever writing has been gradually dumbed down to cater to a wider, more diverse audience. This has stripped away some of the nuance and depth that made these shows unique and engaging in their initial broadcast runs.
Pseudo-reality TV shows, such as Married with Children, faced the challenge of being both innovative and deeply offensive. While its bold approach paved the way for subsequent controversial content, it also set a high bar for subsequent shows.
The long-running success of shows like The Simpsons or Jeopardy! can be attributed to their ability to stay relevant, change with the times, and maintain a strong comedic foundation. However, the prolonged success of such shows also suggests that the TV industry may be entering a phase where the challenges of maintaining a long-term audience are increasingly difficult.
In conclusion, while it is possible for a non-news prime time television show to last 40 years, the landscape of modern entertainment, marked by the rise of pseudo-reality TV and a more conservative approach to content, presents significant challenges. Shows that can adapt, please their audiences, and retain their unique qualities will be the ones that stand the test of time.