Fall television programming traditionally features a mix of new series debuts, returning favorites, and special events. Here’s a breakdown of what Fall 2024 looks like for TV programming:
Scripted Dramas & Comedies
New Premieres: Fall is the time when networks introduce new shows. Expect a range of new dramas and comedies trying to capture attention. Themes often include family life, thrillers, legal dramas, or comedies set in workplaces.
Returning Favorites: Many fan-favorite shows are returning, from long-running police procedurals like NCIS and Law & Order to hit sitcoms like Abbott Elementary. Several popular dramas (like Grey’s Anatomy) also return with new seasons, attracting loyal viewers.
Strikes Impact: The 2023 Writers Guild of America (WGA) and Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) strikes may have delayed some scripted programming, so networks have had to adjust their schedules. This includes shifting premiere dates, shorter seasons, or pushing shows to midseason.
Reality Shows
Competition Series: Fall remains a hotspot for major reality competitions like The Voice, Survivor, The Masked Singer, and Dancing with the Stars. These shows are reliable, as reality programming isn’t as affected by the writers’ and actors’ strikes.
New Reality & Docuseries: Networks are also rolling out new reality-based programming, tapping into interests like dating, survival, and celebrity life.
Streaming Services
Platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ continue offering exclusive new series and films throughout the Fall. Netflix is still a leader with its mix of original dramas, reality shows, and global content.
Many streaming services have started experimenting with weekly episode releases for key shows, rather than dropping entire seasons at once, to keep viewers engaged.
Sports & Events
Football: NFL and college football dominate primetime, especially on weekends. Monday Night Football and Sunday Night Football continue to be some of the highest-rated programs.
Award Shows: The Emmys, typically held in September, have been postponed to January 2024 due to the strikes, impacting Fall programming.
Holiday Programming
As Fall transitions into late November and December, there will be a ramp-up in holiday-themed TV. This includes Thanksgiving specials, Christmas movies on Hallmark, Lifetime, and Netflix, and end-of-year events.
Overall, Fall 2024 television programming is navigating through some production challenges, but with a blend of reality TV, sports, and creative use of streaming content, there’s still a diverse lineup for viewers.
