the Empire Strikes Back

We have a countless number of pundits exclaiming that new media options spell the end of traditional television.

But I would not be the first to point out that there is a new enthusiasm in television today to create more interesting shows. Maybe it's just desperation, but television networks are offering newer, deeper stories and trying more experiments. And they are quick to cut their losses, too. I heard today that the new show 'Smith' is being cancelled after just 3 shows. And I was meaning to see that soon, too!

Perhaps this is the upside to fragmentation. Think about it: if you accept that the television audience is fragmented like never before, why not try to appeal to a specific segment instead of creating mass-Pablum shows rip-offs of the last successful hit.

A host of new and returning dramas is focusing on tales with depth, intrigue, and dramatic twists. It has made viewing more rewarding, and has made me more hopeful.

I will continue to bring you the happening about how the dynamics of viewing are changing, the pathways to the viewer expanding, the economics full of uncertainty. But the central commandment - that it all comes down to good content - just might keep the television industry vibrant for years to come.