Which Modern TV Shows Will Be Remembered as Classics in 10 Years?

Is TV Evolving Too Fast for Memorable Classics?

The age-old question of which TV shows will stand the test of time has always fascinated television enthusiasts. In today's digital age, the landscape of programming has changed dramatically. With streaming services offering a plethora of content and constant shifts in network allegiance, it’s indeed difficult to predict which modern TV shows will be remembered as classics. In this article, we will explore which shows might make the cut and why.

Instability in Programming and the Loss of Classical Stays

The rapid evolution of media consumption habits has led to an era of less stability in programming. Shows that once had fifteen-year runs are now rare, and the era of shows sticking with the same network for an extended period seems to be a thing of the past. Let’s take a closer look at this shift:

Beyond the Network Tie-ups
In the analog era, shows had a similar network loyalty. For instance, a show would typically stay with a network like ABC, CBS, or NBC unless it moved between these three networks. The introduction of digital platforms brought about changes that disrupted this stability. As a matter of fact, the last show to have a fifteen-year run, “Supernatural,” is a unique case in the current era where such longevity is becoming rare.

The Current Climate and Attention Deficit Disorder
The current environment is marked by a significant decrease in viewer loyalty and a hostility towards chasing shows across multiple networks. With attention span becoming increasingly short and the rise of ADD, it is challenging for shows to maintain a consistent audience base. The influx of political correctness and cultural shifts such as the dominance of anime in certain genres has further complicated matters. It is hard to imagine an environment where a show can sustain its memory and popularity for decades.

Key Shows Expected to Stand the Test of Time

Despite the challenges, two shows from a recent golden age of television stand out as potential classics. Both of these shows managed to captivate audiences and introduced groundbreaking storytelling and character development.

The Sopranos and Mad Men
“The Sopranos” and “Mad Men” are two shows that could well be remembered as classics in 10, 20, or even 50 years. These series are renowned for their intricate plotlines, deep character development, and profound cultural impact. They managed to connect with their audience on an emotional and intellectual level, making them timeless pieces of television history.

Beyond the Classics: Other Modern TV Shows

Additionally, there are several other modern TV shows that, while not necessarily reaching the pinnacle of classic status, still manage to stand out. Here are a few of them:

Blacklist and Good Girls - These shows offer compelling narratives and engaging characters that keep viewers glued to their screens. “Blacklist,” with its high-stakes mysteries, and “Good Girls,” with its blend of drama and suspense, provide entertaining television viewing that doesn't rely solely on cyclic popularity. Grace and Frankie - A delightful and heartwarming series that defies the stereotype of older adults in TV. “Grace and Frankie” is a series that explores the dynamics of love, friendship, and aging, making it a refreshing and memorable addition to any TV lineup. Next in Fashion, Project Runway, Love is Blind, and The Circle - These shows are more niche but still manage to carve out their own specific following. Shows like “Next in Fashion” and “Project Runway” focus on creativity, design, and competition, while “Love is Blind” and “The Circle” explore human relationships from unique angles.

Streaming Services and the Ever-Evolving Landscape

With the rise of streaming services, the landscape has changed significantly. These services like Netflix have not only brought us a wealth of original content but also introduced a different demographic to television. Shows like “Peaky Blinders, Narcos, Bling Empire, The Ultimatum, Too Hot to Handle, Love Island, and The Mole” are popular on these platforms, showcasing a diverse range of genres and storytelling techniques.

Streaming services allow for a more accessible and flexible viewing experience, paving the way for shows to gain and maintain a following worldwide. For instance, “Peaky Blinders” and “Narcos” are both excellent shows that showcase the brilliance of British drama and the untold stories of real-life drug lords. These shows have the potential to become modern classics due to their international appeal and unique storytelling.

Conclusion

The future of television is unpredictable, but some shows have the potential to stand the test of time. While it is challenging to predict which modern TV shows will be remembered as classics in 10 years, certain shows like “The Sopranos, Mad Men, Peaky Blinders, and Narcos” show promise in terms of enduring popularity. Today's streaming services are a game-changer, providing a platform for rich and diverse content that has the potential to captivate viewers and maintain a lasting legacy.