Los Angeles, CA – Fox is relieved that new scripted programming will return for the second half of the 2023-2024 TV season. Despite the challenges, the fall season had some positive moments for the network. Fox turned to adult animation and unscripted programming to fill airtime, which yielded favorable ratings. Series like “Krapopolis” and the return of “Kitchen Nightmares” and “Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test” helped maintain steady viewership.
Fox Entertainment CEO Rob Wade shared that the network quickly shifted its mindset from frustration to seeing opportunity when the fall schedule was upended due to strikes. Fox’s priorities include being a talent-first company and they have struck deals with notable talents such as Dan Harmon, Curtis ’50 Cent’ Jackson, Oliver Hudson, Marc Cherry, and McG. Additionally, Fox has been broadening its global footprint by developing international formats, ordering international co-productions, and setting up a British development slate.
According to Fox, their entertainment programming has generated 18.2 billion minutes watched across linear Live + 35 and digital platforms for the first half of the season. On Hulu, Fox programming has garnered over 16.3 million unique users, totaling more than 4.2 billion minutes watched. The network’s commitment to shows like “Krapopolis” and “Kitchen Nightmares” is evident as they recognize that such series take time to build a following.
Fox’s emphasis on investing in scripted series it owns or co-owns is reflected in the return of shows like “Animal Control,” “The Cleaning Lady,” and “Alert: Missing Persons Unit.” While they may not have the same audience as the highly-rated series “9-1-1,” Fox is giving these shows room to grow and find their place.
In terms of unscripted programming, Fox continues to rely on the success of shows like “The Masked Singer” and those featuring Gordon Ramsay. The return of “Kitchen Nightmares” after a 10-year hiatus has resonated with viewers on Hulu, becoming Fox’s most-streamed program of the season. Similarly, “Special Forces” draws a large audience from Hulu, with its digital viewership nearly doubling the linear audience.
Fox sees unscripted programming as an opportunity to push boundaries and innovate. The network is off to a promising start with the second half of the broadcast season, debuting new reality game shows “The Floor” and “We Are Family” with strong viewership numbers.
In conclusion, Fox is navigating the evolving television landscape as streaming takes center stage. They are committed to nurturing and growing their shows, focusing on long-term success rather than short-term gains. Despite the challenges, Fox is optimistic about the future and continues to prioritize talent and innovation.
(Note: This article is a rewrite and does not quote any news organization or mention AP News or any other news company.)