Summary
Suits has broken yet another record in viewership rankings, overtaking a popular Netflix show and spending 12 consecutive weeks in the top slot.
The recent success of the show on streaming platforms emphasizes its continuing popularity due to its clever humor and well-structured storylines. The unprecedented achievements of Suits are occurring at the same time as discussions concerning fair compensation for actors and creative professionals in the era of streaming services.
Continuing its streak of breaking streaming records, the legal drama Suits from 2011 has now surpassed another popular Netflix original in Nielsen's viewership rankings. After gaining significant popularity again when it started dominating streaming charts years after its initial run ended, Suits has now surpassed Netflix's hit show on weekly viewership minutes. Recently, it also tied with Ozark from Netflix for spending the longest time at the top of Nielsen's Top 10 Overall Charts.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Suits can now add this new record to its already impressive list of achievements. It surpassed Ozark's 11-week record, thanks to Suits' 12 consecutive weeks at the top position. What makes this feat even more remarkable is that Suits achieved this record in a single uninterrupted streak, unlike Ozark which held its title across multiple season releases.
How Suits’ Continuing Success Shone A Light On Streaming Content Concerns
Despite the departure of key cast members like Meghan Markle and Patrick J. Adams, Suits' original release in 2011 was a success for USA Network, receiving favorable reviews and strong viewership numbers. However, the show's popularity gradually declined over time. Nevertheless, its recent resurgence on streaming platforms highlights the enduring appeal of its clever humor and formula-driven storylines. Interestingly, Suits' ongoing record-breaking streak on streaming television aligns perfectly with the current discussions surrounding streaming services and the fairness of residuals paid to actors and creatives.
Earlier this year, Suits writer Ethan Drogin shared his excitement about the show's revival on Netflix and Peacock. However, he revealed that despite its overwhelming success, he had earned less than $300 in streaming residuals. While the Writers Guild of America has recently reached an agreement with streaming services that introduces a new performance-based pay bonus structure for writers, members of SAG-AFTRA are still awaiting the outcome of their ongoing strike action.
Suits' recent surge in popularity may not be directly linked to the ongoing wave of industrial action in Hollywood, but its timing effectively highlighted the expanding inequalities that industry guilds are striving to address. As the current public fascination with Suits eventually wanes, the show's lasting impact could transcend its impressive streaming records. Its unexpected resurgence may have also played a significant role in raising awareness of crucial issues within the industry and encouraging a much-needed dialogue.