What made first run syndication non-profitable?

[MikeRy71]

MacsRock wrote:

---

I think it has to do with what people are watching. Seems all that is on is crime drama, reality shows, and sitcoms. People don't seem to watch science fiction anymore.

Are there any (good) current science fiction shows on right now? I ask for two reasons: 1) I don;t think there is, and 2) I'd like to learn of any I might not know about

Outcasts on the BBCA is pretty good as well as Falling Skies. Other than being good entertainment, one wonders, how did Dr. Who survive for roughly 40 years?

[Temis the Vorta]

BBC license fee. No parallel exists in American TV, or is likely to ever exist. Poor PBS is always under attack, despite being supported by the loose change found under Congressional sofas. Can you imagine the uproar if they tried to launch a "silly sci fi series" with taxpayer dollars?

If they want to survive, they have to stick to ballets, operas and documentaries that are too boring for most folks, and as we all know, if it's boring, it must be good for you.

And I'm pretty sure Outcasts has been cancelled, hasn't it? I tried watching a couple episodes, and eh...didn't grab me.

[Dantheman]

Temis the Vorta wrote:

---

If they want to survive, they have to stick to ballets, operas and documentaries that are too boring for most folks, and as we all know, if it's boring, it must be good for you.

I dunno about anyone else, but I found that recent Ken Burns documentary on Prohibition to be interesting and worthwhile. But then again, I'm the kind of guy who watches History Channel stuff not dealing with pawn shops and ice road trucking....

[chardman]

My Name Is Legion wrote:

---

It was mainly the absorption of so many formerly independent stations into the WB and UPN.

This. With these newer networks absorbing unaffiliated stations, there simply aren't enough independent stations left to make first-run syndication practical or profitable. Most of the local stations that used to buy such shows to fill their schedule now are provided with network fare to fill the time, and at a fraction of the cost.

[Nerys Myk]

Dantheman wrote:

---

I dunno about anyone else, but I found that recent Ken Burns documentary on Prohibition to be interesting and worthwhile. But then again, I'm the kind of guy who watches History Channel stuff not dealing with pawn shops and ice road trucking....

So, the commercials?

[Herkimer Jitty]

Nerys Myk wrote:

---

So, the commercials?

Don't forget the UFO and Hitler shows. Those don't have pawn shops or ice truckers in them. Usually.

[Nerys Myk]

I'm transporting the UFO that kidnapped Hitler via Ice Road Trucker to a pawn shop so I can get a price quote.

[Temis the Vorta]

Dantheman wrote:

---

I dunno about anyone else, but I found that recent Ken Burns documentary on Prohibition to be interesting and worthwhile. But then again, I'm the kind of guy who watches History Channel stuff not dealing with pawn shops and ice road trucking....

Well I was being sardonic there. That's what winky face was for.

And History has stuff that doesn't deal with pawn shops and ice road trucking? Every so often I go hunting there for some actual history content...