Number of scripted TV series in the U.S. 2009-2022

After a decline in original scripted TV series in the United States in 2020, the amount increased again in 2021 and 2022. A record 599 original scripted drama, comedy, and limited TV shows were aired on broadcast and cable TV as well as on streaming services in 2022, up by seven percent from the previous year.

Impact of the strikes in Hollywood on TV productions

With writers and actors being on strike for several months in 2023, the industry is likely to see a temporary decline in scripted TV show productions and releases as a result. Over half of productions are expected to be affected by the work stoppages from September 2023 to April 2024. As the strike had not been resolved as of July 2023, even more TV series than expected could be affected.

Concerned consumers

Several studios have already announced production delays of highly anticipated shows and films, such as the last season of Netflix’s “Stranger Things” and every upcoming Marvel movie. According to a survey from May 2023, U.S. consumers were particularly worried about TV shows being delayed or canceled due to labor disputes. Nearly 40 percent of respondents stated to be concerned about series, while only one percent were worried about movies being impacted.