Peak TV
The era of unprecedented television production volume, with hundreds of scripted series released annually across platforms.
Definition
Peak TV describes the current era of television characterized by an overwhelming abundance of scripted content. Coined by FX Networks CEO John Landgraf in 2015, the term captures a market where over 500 scripted original series premiere annually across broadcast, cable, and streaming platforms.
This content explosion was driven by streaming competition, as platforms invested heavily in original programming to differentiate themselves and attract subscribers.
Why It Matters
Peak TV has created both opportunities and challenges for the entertainment industry. More production means more jobs and diverse storytelling, but also increased difficulty in cutting through the noise to reach audiences.
Marketing and PR professionals must work harder than ever to generate awareness, as even critically acclaimed shows can get lost in the content avalanche without strategic promotion.
Examples in Practice
The scripted series count grew from approximately 200 in 2009 to over 600 by 2022. This explosion gave rise to acclaimed series across every genre that might not have been greenlit in an earlier era.
However, signs of Peak TV's end have emerged with streaming cutbacks, production slowdowns, and platform consolidation suggesting the industry may be entering a contraction phase.