Changing Viewing Habits
There are plenty of past television shows that, if they were to be released today, would become much more successful than when they originally aired. Nowadays, audience viewing habits have changed a lot and, due to the advent of the high-speed internet, streaming services, and binge-watching culture, viewer's consumption and engagement with television are much different than in times past.
The Wire Poster
While some excellent television series have slipped under the radar, there are plenty of examples of shows that modern audiences would likely connect with and would have given them the praise they deserve. The time and era that they are released can be a deciding factor in a show's popularity.
Changing Viewing Habits
Shows That Would Thrive Today
The Wire, a clever exploration of politics and society, would connect with modern audiences due to its narrative depth and accurate portrayal of society and politics. If it was released today, it could reach a dedicated audience in search of challenging television.
Ugly Betty, a hilarious deconstruction of unrealistic beauty standards, would have an even larger impact if it was aired today. Its examination of unrealistic beauty standards, the importance of body positivity and self-acceptance, and its racially diverse cast and progressive LGBTQ+ representation would resonate with contemporary viewers.
America Ferrera as Betty Suarez reading Mode Magazine for Ugly Betty
Deadwood, a dialogue-heavy western, would be more accepted by modern audiences due to its slow-burn style, razor-sharp wit, and explicit obscene profanity. If it premiered today, it would be much more attuned to the current television landscape.
Deadwood HBO
Overlooked Gems
Fringe, a bingeable sci-fi series, would have benefited more from streaming and the binge-watching culture of today. With its in-depth series mythology, it would have reached the audience levels it was capable of if it was released in the current era.
Peter, Olivia, and Walter in Fringe.
Twin Peaks, a surreal dream-like spectacle, was ahead of its time when it first aired. However, if it was released today, it would not be as alienating and would be received more positively due to the changing audience landscape.
Composite image of Sheryl Lee as Laura Palmer and Kyle MacLachlan as Special Agent Dale Cooper from Twin Peaks
Nathan Barley, a satirical sitcom, was massively ahead of its time and would be massively popular if released today and marketed towards Generation Z.
Nathan Barley reads Sugar Ape 2005 TV show
