In a sign that woke programming is making people fall asleep, the recent data from Nielsen ratings shows that it’s not new programming people want. Instead, old shows with a more realistic message and storyline are proving to be much more popular.
As first reported by The Hill, “The most streamed show last year wasn’t the latest Netflix reality TV show craze. Nor was it the highly anticipated final season of “Succession” or the debut of “The Last of Us.” According to Nielsen, the most minutes last year – more than 57 billion – were spent watching “Suits,” a legal drama that premiered 12 years prior. The show, which is available to stream on Netflix and Peacock, stars the former actress Meghan Markle, now the Duchess of Sussex, and likely has her to thank for its second life.”
Unsurprisingly, the Top 10 for 2023 shows were Suits, Bluey, NCIS, Grey’s Anatomy, Cocomelon, The Big Bang Theory, Gilmore Girls, Friends, Heartland, and Supernatural. While some of these shows, like Grey’s Anatomy, are still being produced, the vast majority are significantly older and have a very different message.
People have learned that the messages pumped into their TV programs are not ones they can abide by. Watching almost anything recently made, you’ll quickly find yourself inundated with references and dialog that isn’t right. Thinly veiled references to sexuality, drugs, and less-than-moral activities are everywhere. Presented as a good thing, the message erodes the basis of human decency and good decorum.
Older programs present the downsides of such activities. Seeing the reality of them and how corrupt they make the people who engage in them, these “classic” programs give viewers the reality of the situation and an accurate message that is largely missing. No wonder people are dumping the new dumpster fire programming for the purity of days past.
