CBS is taking a bold stand in the world of television, and it's a move that's sure to spark debate. While other networks are cutting back on scripted shows, CBS is doubling down. But why? Is this a risky move or a strategic masterstroke?
The network kicked off its fall premiere week with a bang, leveraging the massive audience of a football doubleheader to showcase a week's worth of new and returning shows. The spotlight was on two female-led mystery series: the Emmy-nominated 'Matlock,' starring Kathy Bates, and 'Elsbeth,' a spinoff of 'The Good Wife,' featuring a quirky lawyer teaming up with the NYPD. These shows embody the classic 'CBS show' formula: reliable procedurals with creative twists, and they're among the network's most-watched programs.
CBS's confidence is well-founded. They've dominated as the most-watched broadcast network for 17 consecutive seasons, a feat that has allowed them to consistently bring back fan favorites. But here's where it gets interesting: in the 2025-26 season, CBS is introducing several new scripted shows while other networks opt for cheaper unscripted content or sports. With nine consecutive TV seasons of the most-watched new series under their belt, CBS has earned the right to keep greenlighting scripted projects.
But is this strategy sustainable? CBS Entertainment President Amy Reisenbach asserts that they aim to reach the largest possible audience, and the numbers prove it. However, the decline in linear television revenue is a concern, and Paramount's cost-cutting measures after merging with Skydance add pressure. Despite CBS's ratings dominance and the stability provided by executive George Cheeks, the extent of future budget cuts remains unclear.
Reisenbach acknowledges the financial challenges but highlights innovative strategies to ensure financial viability and creative excellence. This pressure-filled backdrop sets the stage for CBS's premiere week, where network executives are betting on their quality programming to retain loyal viewers.
CBS is pulling out all the stops with a whopping 15 new and returning scripted series, including three 'NCIS' shows, 'Fire Country' and its spinoff 'Sheriff Country' with Morena Baccarin, a 'Big Bang Theory' spinoff, the beloved comedy 'Ghosts,' and a 'Blue Bloods' spinoff titled 'Boston Blue.' The fall lineup also features a music competition series produced by Taylor Sheridan and a new workplace comedy set in a DMV.
The success of CBS's programming is attributed to its close development relationship with its sibling studio, which creates shows that resonate across platforms. Even Paramount's new CEO, David Ellison, praised CBS's fall lineup as one of the strongest in the company's history.
CBS's strategy is evident in 'Boston Blue,' a spinoff starring Donnie Wahlberg, which continues the legacy of the beloved 'Blue Bloods.' The producers found a fresh angle to extend the DNA of the original series, transporting Wahlberg's Danny Reagan to Boston for a new partnership and a blend of police work and family dynamics.
CBS's approach has proven effective, with shows like 'Tracker' and 'Matlock' ranking among the top 8 TV programs in multiplatform viewing across streamers and broadcasters. CBS Studios produces 10 out of the top 11 series, showcasing the success of their symbiotic development relationship. This partnership also led to the creation of 'Sheriff Country,' a spinoff debuting after the season premiere of 'Fire Country.'
CBS's strategic planning is meticulous, with Reisenbach's schedule mapping out programming until May 2026. Beyond the fall, they plan to launch a 'Yellowstone' spinoff, an 'FBI' spinoff set in the CIA, and two competition shows. 'Survivor' will celebrate its 50th season in early 2026, and 'Big Brother' fans have been assured of another season, despite no official renewal yet.
CBS executives Reisenbach and Stapf have secured their positions for the next three years, but the future remains uncertain. With Paramount+ and film slate priorities, potential budget cuts loom. Additionally, the network's interest in acquiring more sports programming could impact the availability of time slots for scripted shows.
So, is CBS's commitment to scripted shows a bold move or a risky gamble? Will their strategy pay off, or will they need to adapt to changing industry trends? Share your thoughts in the comments below. The future of CBS's programming is a captivating topic that deserves further exploration.
