Broadcast network

Definition

A broadcast network is a telecommunications network that transmits television programs to a wide audience via airwaves, typically through local affiliate stations. These networks distribute content to viewers through a series of broadcast signals and are fundamental to how traditional television operates, impacting both the production and distribution of comedy series.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Broadcast networks are crucial for the initial airing of new comedy series, providing the platform through which shows can reach millions of viewers simultaneously.
2. Major broadcast networks like NBC, ABC, CBS, and FOX play a significant role in determining which comedy series get produced based on audience ratings and demographics.
3. The advertising revenue generated by broadcast networks directly influences the budget available for producing high-quality comedy content.
4. Broadcast networks often have strict guidelines and standards that showrunners must adhere to, impacting the creative freedom available in comedy series.
5. The relationship between broadcast networks and showrunners can be complex, as networks may exert influence over storylines or character development based on viewer feedback and market trends.

Review Questions

• How do broadcast networks influence the production decisions made by showrunners in comedy series?
  • Broadcast networks have a significant impact on the production decisions made by showrunners because they provide the necessary funding and distribution platform for new shows. Networks evaluate potential programs based on market research and audience demographics, which can shape what kind of comedic content is greenlit. This pressure can lead showrunners to adjust their creative vision to align with network expectations and maximize viewership.
• In what ways do affiliate stations contribute to the success of comedy series aired on broadcast networks?
  • Affiliate stations play a crucial role in promoting and distributing comedy series from broadcast networks. They tailor programming schedules to meet local audience preferences, often boosting ratings for shows that resonate with regional viewers. Additionally, affiliate stations engage in marketing efforts to build excitement around new comedies, which can significantly enhance viewer engagement and increase overall viewership numbers for the network.
• Evaluate the implications of syndication on the longevity and legacy of comedy series initially aired on broadcast networks.
  • Syndication allows comedy series that originally aired on broadcast networks to gain new life by reaching audiences who may have missed them during their initial run. This process can extend a show's lifespan significantly, leading to increased recognition and fan base growth over time. Shows that perform well in syndication often achieve cult status or become staples of popular culture, influencing future productions within the genre while also generating additional revenue for their creators through syndication deals.

Related terms

Affiliate Station: A local television station that broadcasts programming from a national network, often responsible for tailoring content to its specific regional audience.

Syndication: The sale of the rights to broadcast a television program to multiple television stations without going through a broadcast network, allowing shows to reach a broader audience.

Prime Time: The time period during which the largest number of viewers are watching television, typically in the evening, when networks schedule their most popular programming.