Insights from Network & Streamer Chiefs: Staying Original in Reality TV
Unscripted Programming Executives Discuss Industry Trends in a Growing Landscape
In a collaborative discussion, top executives from major streaming and television networks explored the current state and future of unscripted programming. Netflix’s Vice President of Unscripted Jeff Gaspin, Amazon’s Head of Nonfiction Series Jenn Levy, Walt Disney Television’s EVP of Unscripted and Alternative Entertainment Rob Mills, CBS’ EVP of Alternative Programming Mitch Graham, Bravo and Peacock’s EVP of Unscripted Content Rachel Smith, and Fox Entertainment Studios’ Head of Unscripted Programming Allison Wallach shared insights during a recent panel.
Levy, who joined Amazon earlier this year, expressed enthusiasm about the industry’s trajectory, stating, “I think it’s a really exciting time,” and noted that she has begun developing new projects. She highlighted the buzz surrounding shows like Love Island and Traitors, emphasizing the excitement each brings to the conversation around television.
Smith remarked on Bravo’s success, citing record performance on Peacock. “There’s a lot of growth… it’s very exciting,” she asserted, acknowledging the engagement of social media and the creation of urgency surrounding popular content.
Gaspin noted that Netflix remains robust in the unscripted space, saying, “It’s still very healthy at Netflix… we’re certainly buying and as healthy as we’ve ever been.” He pointed to a shift in the marketplace dynamics but underscored the consistency in Netflix’s performance.
Graham also reaffirmed CBS’ commitment to unscripted content, highlighting the upcoming milestone of Survivor 50. He maintained, “It’s an exciting time… [Unscripted’s] always been a priority for us, and something that we’ll continue to invest in.”
Mills echoed this sentiment, calling programs like Survivor and Dancing With The Stars trailblazers within the genre. “I think it’s actually in a better place than it’s been in quite a while,” he added, discussing the network’s ongoing growth in engaging new formats.
At Fox, Wallach emphasized the value of taking creative risks in unscripted programming. “It helps that our CEO is… passionate about the genre,” she said, expressing optimism for innovative developments in the industry.
The executives collectively encouraged producers to bring forward fresh ideas. Gaspin reiterated the desire for risk-taking in content creation, stating they “want shows that take more chances.”
Levy added, “Innovate on the familiar,” while Smith stressed the importance of authenticity in building connections between cast members. “We don’t want to be derivative… real, authentic connections” are vital, she said, referencing the dynamics in successful shows.
Graham insisted on the need for universal themes that spur social conversations, highlighting Big Brother as an example of a show that engages audiences throughout its run. “What’s going to be that driving thing outside of the creative format?” he posed.
Fox’s Wallach concluded with a note on the appeal of taboo topics, expressing a desire to discover unexpected content that resonates with viewers. “That’s what I would love to hear more of,” she stated, after sharing her excitement for projects like Age of Attraction.
