Reruns

Definition

Reruns are rebroadcasts of previously aired television episodes, allowing networks to fill programming slots and reach viewers who may have missed the original airing. These reruns can extend the lifespan of a show, often generating revenue through syndication and advertising. They play a crucial role in establishing a show's popularity and can significantly impact its cultural relevance over time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Reruns can increase viewership numbers significantly, making them valuable for networks looking to boost ratings without the cost of producing new content.
2. Shows that achieve syndication typically need to have at least 100 episodes to become profitable through reruns.
3. Reruns can sometimes alter the perception of a show, as audiences may connect differently with characters or storylines when viewed out of original context.
4. Networks often schedule reruns during off-peak times or summer months when new programming is limited, ensuring continuous viewer engagement.
5. The rise of streaming platforms has changed the way reruns are consumed, as viewers can now binge-watch entire seasons at their convenience rather than waiting for scheduled broadcasts.

Review Questions

• How do reruns contribute to the longevity and popularity of television shows?
  • Reruns play a significant role in enhancing the longevity and popularity of television shows by allowing them to reach new audiences who may have missed the original broadcasts. By airing past episodes, networks can tap into nostalgia while potentially introducing the series to younger viewers. Additionally, reruns generate revenue through advertising and syndication deals, which can lead to increased investment in future seasons or spin-offs.
• Discuss the impact of syndication on the financial success of shows through reruns.
  • Syndication greatly affects the financial success of shows by creating additional revenue streams from reruns after a series has concluded its original airing. Shows that reach syndication often have enough episodes to be sold in bulk to local stations or cable networks. This not only provides consistent income for production companies but also keeps the show's brand alive in popular culture, allowing for merchandise sales and renewed viewer interest.
• Evaluate how the emergence of streaming services has transformed the traditional concept of reruns in television.
  • The emergence of streaming services has revolutionized how reruns are perceived and consumed by audiences. Unlike traditional broadcasting where reruns were scheduled at specific times, streaming platforms allow viewers to access entire seasons at their own pace. This shift means that the concept of waiting for a rerun has diminished, leading to binge-watching culture. Furthermore, it provides opportunities for shows that may not have found success in linear broadcasting to gain a second life through streaming, thus altering traditional viewing habits and extending a show's reach.

Related terms

Syndication:

The process by which a television show is sold to multiple broadcasters for rebroadcasting, often after its original run has ended.

Primetime: The block of evening hours during which the largest number of viewers are watching television, typically used to air new episodes or high-demand reruns.

Cable Networks: Television channels that require a subscription for access and often rely on reruns to fill their programming schedules, especially during off-peak hours.