While Netflix popularized and reinforced binge-watching with its addictive, easy-to-digest content, the service is now pivoting to a weekly release streaming schedule for two reality TV shows—The Circle and Too Hot to Handle. Instead of making the episodes of the show available all at once, Netflix is experimenting by releasing a batch of episodes on Wednesdays over the course of one month. The finale will be showcased by itself at the end of each TV show's run.
Netflix explained that the weekly release streaming schedule will "give people time to 'dissect and dish' the events of the show." The company believes that this will push consumers to be more engaged with each show, resulting in "people talking about [a] show for a month, rather than only for a weekend."
Weekly Release Streaming Schedules
Netflix Will Slowly Release The Circle and Too Hot to Handle
Trend Themes
1. Weekly Release Streaming - This trend will encourage streaming platforms to experiment with different release schedules and find a balance between binge-watching and weekly release.
2. Engagement-focused Content - This trend will push content creators to create more engaging and discussion-worthy content that keeps viewers coming back week after week.
3. Event Television - This trend will bring back the tradition of event television by creating buzz around a show and building anticipation for each weekly release.
Industry Implications
1. Streaming Services - Streaming services can capitalize on this trend by experimenting with different release schedules to find what works best for their audiences and content.
2. Reality TV - This trend presents an opportunity for reality TV producers to create content that fosters engagement and discussion among viewers, leading to a more dedicated fanbase and potentially higher ratings.
3. Ad Agencies - Ad agencies can take advantage of this trend by creating campaigns that tap into the buzz surrounding each weekly release, building off the anticipation and engagement around the shows.