• by Wayne Friedman , 2 hours ago

Although U.S. TV production of new and existing shows is declining, linear TV production is proving to be more "resilient" than streaming platforms in recent years, Ampere Analysis finds.

Between 2022 and 2025, U.S.-produced linear “orders” for TV programming fell 26% to 1,304 per year (from 1,773) while streaming TV orders dropped 41% to 678 from 1,144.

The study examined orders for pilots for scripted/unscripted shows, news, one-off specials, sports-related documentaries, talk shows and movies, among other content.

The research comes from broadcast, cable, FAST channels, and other distributors, and surveyed 61 streaming platforms.

Looking specifically at linear scripted TV series from all networks and channels, those orders grew 11% to 262 in 2025 -- up from 236 in 2023.

Broadcast networks -- including NBC, ABC, CBS and Fox -- witnessed overall series declines of 13% to 352, down from 408 in 2023.

In contrast U.S. cable TV networks experienced a steep decline -- down 33%% between 2022 and 2025, to 877 from 1295. 

The study notes that channels such as Warner Bros. Discovery’s HGTV and Food Network in particular saw significant declines.

Looking at brand-centric TV show building to include “NCIS,” “Law & Order,” “FBI” and “Chicago Fire,” NBC’s Chicago Med/Fire/PD brands, 52% of new scripted series orders were “franchise-based” in 2024.

“TV, broadcast networks are taking a disciplined approach to primetime commissioning, focusing on proven genres and franchises that can connect with audiences across platforms,” says Eric Kurtsel, research manager, at Ampere Analysis.

“Viewers continue to engage with broadcast series on streaming platforms," Kurtsel adds.