Friday, May 24, 2013
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Monday, May 20, 2013
All For Not?
Recently, Prospect Park issued a press release to let everyone know that the number of episodes of All My Children and One Life To Live have been cut. As of this post, the shows will air twice per week. Here's what they said:
For close to two years we have been working passionately to bring first run premium content to an online platform with the creation of brand-new versions of the two iconic series, All My Children and One Life To Live. There was no precedent for this effort- we had no history-no barometer for how our fans would respond. We always knew there would quickly be new insights into how audiences would respond to our shows and this new platform, and that our ability to adapt quickly to audience needs would ultimately determine the long-term success of the shows and our mission. This is a new medium, a new time and we have always planned to make changes quickly by listening to you, our fans and customers.
Today it is clear these shows have resonated, as many millions of views have been logged since our April 29th debut, a mere two and a half weeks ago. We’ve consistently been in the top ten shows viewed on Hulu and viewers and critics alike have told us how impressed they are with the quality of both programs. The past two weeks have been invaluable in terms of learning about how you watch and when you watch our shows on this new platform. We have gained enormous insight through our actual viewing data and our research. And our research has revealed the following:
In the past these shows had their vast majority of views within the first 24 hours. Instead, our shows are primarily consumed on different days then when they originally air. Primarily, fans have been binge viewing or watching on demand, and as a result, we feel we have been expecting our audience to dedicate what has turned out to be an excessive amount of time to viewing these shows. (As an example, for the substantial audience only watching on the weekends, we are currently asking them to watch five hours of programming to keep pace with our release schedule).
On ABC the shows shared a large percentage of their viewers with each other. Yet, the majority of our viewers are watching one show or the other, not both, and they aren’t viewing the shows when they did before. Part of the reason for choosing between the shows may be that the largest viewing takes place either between 12PM and 1PM (when people generally can only fit one episode during lunch time) or between 5PM and 7PM (when the vast majority of competing shows are a half hour long). We are finding that asking most people to regularly watch more than a half hour per day online seems to be too much.
During their ABC runs, viewers watched only 2-3 episodes on average a week and picked up with whichever day’s episode it was. Our viewers seem to primarily start with the first episode and then continue forward episode by episode. Like with primetime serialized dramas as opposed to the traditional slower pacing of daytime, people feel lost if they miss an episode. People are starting from the beginning; the shows are designed for complete viewing from episode one. Yet starting from the beginning with the amount of episodes we are releasing is asking too much for viewers who need to catch up.
The clear conclusion is that while somewhat mixed, these viewing patterns resemble more closely the typical patterns of online viewing rather than how one would watch traditional television. This leads us to believe we are posting too many episodes and making it far too challenging for viewers to keep up. When it comes to online viewing, most of us are just trying to find time to watch series comprised of 13 to 22 episodes a season-so asking viewers to assign time for over 100 episodes per show is a daunting task.
Therefore, we have chosen to revise our scheduling model beginning this Monday, May 20th by introducing two new episodes from OLTL and AMC each week- new episodes of AMC will now run on Mondays and Wednesdays, and fresh episodes of OLTL will post Tuesdays and Thursdays. MORE, our behind the scenes series, will run as a single show on Fridays. This allows us to introduce a new episode of quality television every Monday through Friday and gives the audience a chance to catch up as we continue to build awareness and excitement around these new shows. Because Hulu agrees with our findings, for the meantime they will keep all of our episodes on Hulu.com for free to give viewers the opportunity to find us and catch up.
We know our most dedicated viewers will be upset as they would probably prefer more shows to less (we personally wish there were more episodes of our favorite shows; we would love 50 episodes a year of Homeland, Mad Men or The Simpsons). We apologize to these viewers and ask them to please understand we are trying to ensure our shows succeed and not meet the fate they experienced previously. We need to devise a model that works for all viewers and follows how they want, and are actually watching, online. When it comes to online, as with all new technology, it’s adapt or fail. We feel fortunate to be an online company and to have such an opportunity to adapt. Of course, we will continue to evaluate all the data that comes in and will be vigilant about revising our strategy as needed.
We want to be clear that this will in no way impact our feverish pace of production - we will be filming new episodes through mid-June, continue editing throughout July and until we go back into production in August. It’s a frenetic schedule but all of us are up for the challenge and excited to continue to deliver great shows.
As a new venture we felt obligated to address the needs of our viewers head on and to make adjustments that we think will work for our viewers. And as always, we thank you for your continued support and encouragement.
Sincerely,
Rich Frank and Jeff Kwatinetz
Can you count the contradictions? How can a show be doing so well, yet cut back production? Isn't the point of online viewing the ability to choose when you watch? How can such a huge decision be made in the small amount of time the shows have been back? How can traditional format daytime drama stories be presented effectively with so little time? Where's the commitment? If, at the first sign of obstacle, you cut and run, how can you expect us to have faith? So confused...
Sorry to sound all doom and gloom, but I feel like we've all been taken for a ride. Looks to me as though PP is already getting sick of their new toys. I'm so tired of fighting, just to have the carrot dangled. Don't think I can do it anymore. Am devastated and heartbroken beyond any understandable expression. Will continue to enjoy and support my shows as long as they exist, but am expecting a cancellation notice at any moment. Can't believe this is happening again.
For close to two years we have been working passionately to bring first run premium content to an online platform with the creation of brand-new versions of the two iconic series, All My Children and One Life To Live. There was no precedent for this effort- we had no history-no barometer for how our fans would respond. We always knew there would quickly be new insights into how audiences would respond to our shows and this new platform, and that our ability to adapt quickly to audience needs would ultimately determine the long-term success of the shows and our mission. This is a new medium, a new time and we have always planned to make changes quickly by listening to you, our fans and customers.
Today it is clear these shows have resonated, as many millions of views have been logged since our April 29th debut, a mere two and a half weeks ago. We’ve consistently been in the top ten shows viewed on Hulu and viewers and critics alike have told us how impressed they are with the quality of both programs. The past two weeks have been invaluable in terms of learning about how you watch and when you watch our shows on this new platform. We have gained enormous insight through our actual viewing data and our research. And our research has revealed the following:
In the past these shows had their vast majority of views within the first 24 hours. Instead, our shows are primarily consumed on different days then when they originally air. Primarily, fans have been binge viewing or watching on demand, and as a result, we feel we have been expecting our audience to dedicate what has turned out to be an excessive amount of time to viewing these shows. (As an example, for the substantial audience only watching on the weekends, we are currently asking them to watch five hours of programming to keep pace with our release schedule).
On ABC the shows shared a large percentage of their viewers with each other. Yet, the majority of our viewers are watching one show or the other, not both, and they aren’t viewing the shows when they did before. Part of the reason for choosing between the shows may be that the largest viewing takes place either between 12PM and 1PM (when people generally can only fit one episode during lunch time) or between 5PM and 7PM (when the vast majority of competing shows are a half hour long). We are finding that asking most people to regularly watch more than a half hour per day online seems to be too much.
During their ABC runs, viewers watched only 2-3 episodes on average a week and picked up with whichever day’s episode it was. Our viewers seem to primarily start with the first episode and then continue forward episode by episode. Like with primetime serialized dramas as opposed to the traditional slower pacing of daytime, people feel lost if they miss an episode. People are starting from the beginning; the shows are designed for complete viewing from episode one. Yet starting from the beginning with the amount of episodes we are releasing is asking too much for viewers who need to catch up.
The clear conclusion is that while somewhat mixed, these viewing patterns resemble more closely the typical patterns of online viewing rather than how one would watch traditional television. This leads us to believe we are posting too many episodes and making it far too challenging for viewers to keep up. When it comes to online viewing, most of us are just trying to find time to watch series comprised of 13 to 22 episodes a season-so asking viewers to assign time for over 100 episodes per show is a daunting task.
Therefore, we have chosen to revise our scheduling model beginning this Monday, May 20th by introducing two new episodes from OLTL and AMC each week- new episodes of AMC will now run on Mondays and Wednesdays, and fresh episodes of OLTL will post Tuesdays and Thursdays. MORE, our behind the scenes series, will run as a single show on Fridays. This allows us to introduce a new episode of quality television every Monday through Friday and gives the audience a chance to catch up as we continue to build awareness and excitement around these new shows. Because Hulu agrees with our findings, for the meantime they will keep all of our episodes on Hulu.com for free to give viewers the opportunity to find us and catch up.
We know our most dedicated viewers will be upset as they would probably prefer more shows to less (we personally wish there were more episodes of our favorite shows; we would love 50 episodes a year of Homeland, Mad Men or The Simpsons). We apologize to these viewers and ask them to please understand we are trying to ensure our shows succeed and not meet the fate they experienced previously. We need to devise a model that works for all viewers and follows how they want, and are actually watching, online. When it comes to online, as with all new technology, it’s adapt or fail. We feel fortunate to be an online company and to have such an opportunity to adapt. Of course, we will continue to evaluate all the data that comes in and will be vigilant about revising our strategy as needed.
We want to be clear that this will in no way impact our feverish pace of production - we will be filming new episodes through mid-June, continue editing throughout July and until we go back into production in August. It’s a frenetic schedule but all of us are up for the challenge and excited to continue to deliver great shows.
As a new venture we felt obligated to address the needs of our viewers head on and to make adjustments that we think will work for our viewers. And as always, we thank you for your continued support and encouragement.
Sincerely,
Rich Frank and Jeff Kwatinetz
Can you count the contradictions? How can a show be doing so well, yet cut back production? Isn't the point of online viewing the ability to choose when you watch? How can such a huge decision be made in the small amount of time the shows have been back? How can traditional format daytime drama stories be presented effectively with so little time? Where's the commitment? If, at the first sign of obstacle, you cut and run, how can you expect us to have faith? So confused...
Sorry to sound all doom and gloom, but I feel like we've all been taken for a ride. Looks to me as though PP is already getting sick of their new toys. I'm so tired of fighting, just to have the carrot dangled. Don't think I can do it anymore. Am devastated and heartbroken beyond any understandable expression. Will continue to enjoy and support my shows as long as they exist, but am expecting a cancellation notice at any moment. Can't believe this is happening again.
Saturday, May 18, 2013
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Monday, May 13, 2013
It's Real!
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Casting!
Look for a new face to be joining the team at Pine Valley Hospital. Jason Pendergraft is Dr. Anders. Maybe he'll turn Dixie's head? She needs something to do besides meddle. Expect a May 27th debut.
Such A Good Time!
Monday, April 29, 2013
First Impressions...
It's amazing to see all the fan favorites back, and in top form. Next, I was pleasantly surprised to enjoy the new additions. Definitely potential.
From what little I can gleam from the first episode, the writing seems on point. Think we're in for some top-notch long story, and great twists and turns. As a little aside, concerning dialogue, could have done without the swearing. It was nothing terrible or offensive, just seemed unnecessary.
Right out of the gate, the cliffhanger of the television finale was addressed. No answers yet, but definitely excited to watch it all unfold. So much mystery!
Who got shot? Where is Cassandra? Is Tad in a coma? If so, will he wake up? What happened to Cara's baby? Was David framed? By who?
Holding on tight! Feel so privileged and blessed to be a part of it!
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Confirmation!
Quote Of The Moment...
"I'm out here without a shield. Can't go back now."
-Battlefield-Jordin Sparks
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Monday, April 22, 2013
Saturday, April 20, 2013
Booooooooo!!!
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Recast!
Monday, April 15, 2013
Amazing!
It's just been announced that FX Canada will be airing the revivals of All My Children, and One Life To Live! I know from reading a lot of rants that fans in Canada were worried that they weren't going to be able to see the resurrections. So happy that they'll be able to join us on this incredible ride!
Saturday, April 13, 2013
Quote Of The Moment...
"We just want a little meat, without your bible."
-Chow Down (At Chick-fil-A)-Detox, Vicky Vox, And, William Belli
-Chow Down (At Chick-fil-A)-Detox, Vicky Vox, And, William Belli
OMG!!!
Friday, April 12, 2013
Awesome!
Returning!
"Exciting storylines full of mystery and intrigue are planned to usher in the return of these actors that will lead to the answer of one of the most asked questions in Port Charles."
While new faces seem to be the chosen path, longtime fans are hoping the actors will assume characters that have been missing from the canvas. Like I've said before, I have the utmost faith in Frank and Ron. I'll follow wherever they lead.
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Quote Of The Moment...
"It takes the same energy to believe that it does to worry."
-Pastor Joel Osteen
Building Anticipation!
Here's a little tease of what's in store for the first week. I like it because there's just enough given away to keep us wondering.
Monday, 4/29:
A Pine Valley resident vows vengeance. Jesse plans a surprise. As a fast car takes a son home, Pete spots something that will change everything.
Tuesday, 4/30:
A Pine Valley legend returns. Who learns something has gone terribly wrong? Dixie sits vigil.
Wednesday, 5/1:
An ex-con learns who helped him. Jesse gets big news. Cara fears the truth will come out.
Thursday, 5/2:
AJ helps Miranda out of a tight situation. After a year and a half, we finally learn the answer to an age-old question. Which character dies today?
Monday, 4/29:
A Pine Valley resident vows vengeance. Jesse plans a surprise. As a fast car takes a son home, Pete spots something that will change everything.
Tuesday, 4/30:
A Pine Valley legend returns. Who learns something has gone terribly wrong? Dixie sits vigil.
Wednesday, 5/1:
An ex-con learns who helped him. Jesse gets big news. Cara fears the truth will come out.
Thursday, 5/2:
AJ helps Miranda out of a tight situation. After a year and a half, we finally learn the answer to an age-old question. Which character dies today?
Random Shot...
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Woooo-Hoooo!
Just a quick note. The tenth season of So You Think You Can Dance premieres on Fox on May 14th, at 8 p.m. So glad my summer addiction is back!
Casting, And...
Paula Garcés has joined All My Children. Her character, Lea Marquez, is devoted to a career of fighting crime, and is rocked when an unexpected connection forces her to open her heart. That the kind of law enforcement with which the character is involved isn't specified has me intrigued. Wonder if she'll work for the PVPD? Maybe Jesse and Angie are involved?
In other news, All My Children will produce 210 episodes per year. Did the math in my head, and it looks like we'll be getting an episode almost every weekday. Definitely good news!
In other news, All My Children will produce 210 episodes per year. Did the math in my head, and it looks like we'll be getting an episode almost every weekday. Definitely good news!
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Hallelujah!
Quote Of The Moment...
"Everybody loves freedom of speech, until somebody actually uses it."
-John Bradshaw Layfield
Monday, April 8, 2013
Quote Of The Moment...
"Stop studying strife, and learn to live the unexamined life."
-Dancing Through Life-Wicked
29!
Sunday, April 7, 2013
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Friday, April 5, 2013
Disrespectful!
“I don’t want anybody to get bent out of shape with this answer. WrestleMania is the biggest show of the year and I take it very seriously. It really almost doesn’t matter who I’m in the ring with. … The fact that I’m across the ring from The Undertaker — for me, that doesn’t make it any better or worse.”
To say that being in the ring with The Undertaker doesn't mean anything is ridiculous! Whether or not Punk believes it, it shouldn't have been said. If I were Undertaker, there'd be a problem. The lack of brain to mouth filter is astounding. Wouldn't blame The Dead Man one bit if he went a little shoot in their match Sunday.
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Emmys!
For the second consecutive year, HLN will air the Daytime Emmy Awards. The 40th annual ceremony is set for June 16th, at 8 p.m. It's always wonderful to see the stars of daytime drama honored. Hopefully, General Hospital sweeps!
Date!
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
Shadow Of Oz
All the beloved characters from previous tales are here, while some new faces are folded in, and fit near perfectly.
Shortly after beginning however, flaws become apparent. There isn't enough time devoted to character development, leaving the reader feeling unsympathetic to certain plights. Even the familiar seems cold at times, due to lack of depth and detail. A similar situation arises when Dorothy and friends move from disaster to disaster, with no time to catch a breath. This detracts from enjoyment in a huge way.
Those complaints aside, there are enough unexpected developments to keep one hooked, and wanting to see the journey through. The conclusion is well written, and will leave you hoping for a sequel.
C
Tidbits...
A couple mini-spoilers to wet your appetite!
Follow JR as he comes to grips with his past and meet his teen-aged son, AJ, who might just break the cycle of dysfunction that has plagued his family for years. Follow Pete Cortlandt as he falls in love with a girl named Celia who has a dark past even she doesn't know about. Get re-acquainted with Angie and Jesse and see them tested by tragedy and loss. Witness the return of Zach and David and follow the emotional journey of Bianca’s daughter Miranda, whose own mother lived in the shadow of the great Erica Kane but who is determined to forge her own path, on her own terms.
All sounds very promising. The anticipation is killing me! Absolutely cannot wait!
Follow JR as he comes to grips with his past and meet his teen-aged son, AJ, who might just break the cycle of dysfunction that has plagued his family for years. Follow Pete Cortlandt as he falls in love with a girl named Celia who has a dark past even she doesn't know about. Get re-acquainted with Angie and Jesse and see them tested by tragedy and loss. Witness the return of Zach and David and follow the emotional journey of Bianca’s daughter Miranda, whose own mother lived in the shadow of the great Erica Kane but who is determined to forge her own path, on her own terms.
All sounds very promising. The anticipation is killing me! Absolutely cannot wait!
Monday, April 1, 2013
Quote Of The Moment...
"Whatever follows 'I am' is going to come looking for you."
-Pastor Joel Osteen
Easter!
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