First-run syndication

Definition

First-run syndication refers to the practice of distributing television programs directly to local stations for airing, typically without a prior broadcast on a national network. This approach allows shows to reach audiences more quickly and provides local stations with unique programming that can attract viewers, leading to potential advertising revenue. It has become an essential strategy in the television industry for maximizing viewership and creating niche content.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. First-run syndication allows producers to bypass traditional networks and air their shows directly to local stations, enabling greater creative freedom.
2. Programs that are often seen in first-run syndication include talk shows, game shows, and reality TV, which can attract specific demographics.
3. This model can lead to increased advertising revenue for local stations as they can promote exclusive content that is not available on national networks.
4. First-run syndication became more popular in the 1980s and 1990s as cable television expanded and viewers sought diverse programming options.
5. Successful first-run syndicated shows can lead to the development of franchise series or spin-offs, further enhancing their market presence.

Review Questions

• How does first-run syndication differ from off-network syndication in terms of content distribution?
  • First-run syndication involves distributing new television programs directly to local stations for immediate airing, while off-network syndication refers to the distribution of reruns of previously aired shows. This means that first-run syndication focuses on original content that has not been broadcast before, allowing for fresh programming to reach audiences quickly. In contrast, off-network syndication capitalizes on existing viewer interest by offering familiar shows after their initial run.
• Discuss the advantages that first-run syndication provides for local affiliates in terms of programming and revenue.
  • First-run syndication offers local affiliates the opportunity to showcase unique programming that can differentiate them from competitors and attract specific audience demographics. By airing original content not available on national networks, local stations can draw in viewers looking for fresh entertainment. This exclusivity can lead to increased advertising revenue, as advertisers are often willing to pay a premium for access to engaged audiences watching unique shows.
• Evaluate the impact of first-run syndication on the broader television industry and how it shapes viewer preferences.
  • First-run syndication has significantly impacted the television industry by diversifying the types of programming available and allowing for niche markets to flourish. By offering original content directly to local stations, producers can cater to specific viewer interests and preferences that may not be addressed by traditional networks. This shift not only influences what viewers watch but also challenges networks to innovate in order to retain audiences, ultimately leading to a more competitive and varied landscape in television entertainment.

Related terms

Syndication: The sale of the rights to broadcast television shows to multiple television stations or networks, allowing for wider distribution and viewership.

Off-network syndication: The practice of selling reruns of television programs that have previously aired on a network, typically after they have completed their original run.

Local affiliate: A local television station that is affiliated with a national network, which broadcasts content from that network along with locally produced programming.