Online TV Show Case Study

Creating new shows for normal TV isn’t as straightforward as it should be.  Producers develop a concept.  The concept is developed and a one episode script is written.  From there the producer films that one show called a “pilot”.  This pilot episode is then shopped around to the networks to try to land a contract.  Sometimes, depending on the contract and a thousand other variables, the show may be put on the network’s website or on Hulu or Netflix.  Then If and only If it is a hit show, then everybody makes money.

The process is lengthy and TV Executives are always standing in the way of the talent (actors, producers, writers, etc...)  Executives aren’t known for picking the best shows that will be the biggest hits.  That is why there are so many reality TV shows (which don’t require writers or as much planning, special effects, etc…).  Also this is why we always see copy cats,  How many police shows and CSI type shows are out there?!

That is why DBG (Digital Broadcasting Group) did an Online TV experiment.  DBG took big name Kiefer Sutherland to create the show “The Confession”  The DBG then skipped all of the networks and put it straight out on Hulu.

The Confession’s episodes are short, about 8 minutes, but fans love them.  95% of all people who start watching them, finish watching them.  Meaning The Confession is more addicting than a Lays potato chip!

Furthermore, DBG has made money off the show.  This is the first major “Straight to Internet” release that has been profitable.  Also, the shows all done filming and can make even more money in Canada, on Netflix and on DVD.

This is very good for Online TV and yet another little step closer to putting a bullet in the Cable Companies’ TV monopoly.