Syndication boom of the 1980s

Definition

The syndication boom of the 1980s refers to a significant increase in the practice of selling television shows to multiple networks or local stations for broadcast, rather than being tied exclusively to a single network. This period saw a surge in independent production companies creating content that could be distributed widely, allowing for greater diversity in programming and more opportunities for advertisers. The boom transformed the television landscape by enabling popular series to reach larger audiences and generating new revenue streams for producers and networks alike.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The syndication boom allowed shows like 'The A-Team' and 'Cheers' to gain massive popularity by being broadcast on various local stations across the country.
2. Independent production companies played a key role during this boom, creating successful shows that were not tied to traditional networks.
3. This period also saw an increase in the number of cable networks, which further expanded the market for syndicated content.
4. The financial model shifted, as producers began earning revenue from both advertising and syndication deals, leading to higher-quality programming.
5. By the end of the 1980s, syndication had become a standard practice in the television industry, fundamentally changing how content was created and distributed.

Review Questions

• How did the syndication boom of the 1980s impact the diversity of television programming available to audiences?
  • The syndication boom of the 1980s greatly expanded the variety of television programming available by allowing independent production companies to create diverse shows that could be sold to multiple networks and local stations. This shift meant that viewers had access to a wider range of genres, formats, and themes than ever before. It also encouraged experimentation in storytelling and production styles, leading to innovative content that reflected different cultures and perspectives.
• Discuss the role of independent production companies during the syndication boom and how they changed the landscape of television distribution.
  • Independent production companies became crucial players during the syndication boom by producing content that did not rely on traditional networks for distribution. Their ability to create popular shows allowed them to negotiate better deals with local stations and cable networks, thus changing the dynamics of television distribution. This led to a more competitive environment where quality programming could flourish outside of major network constraints, ultimately reshaping audience viewing habits and expectations.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the syndication boom of the 1980s on modern television practices and how it continues to influence current media landscapes.
  • The syndication boom of the 1980s laid the groundwork for many modern television practices we see today, such as streaming services acquiring rights to shows for binge-watching. The idea that content can be distributed across multiple platforms has become a norm in today’s media landscape, leading to an era where viewers have unprecedented control over what they watch and when. Furthermore, this shift has prompted networks and producers to focus on creating high-quality content that can appeal to global audiences, reflecting a legacy that continues to shape television production and distribution strategies.

Related terms

Syndication: The process of distributing television programs to multiple broadcasters or stations, allowing shows to be aired on various platforms after their original run.

First-run syndication: A type of syndication where shows are produced specifically for syndication, rather than being first aired on a major network.

Off-network syndication: The practice of selling previously aired shows to local stations for reruns after they have completed their original network run.