This blog was originally published on elkharttruth.com on April 15, 2015.
Blink and you’ll miss them.
“Gracepoint.” “The Slap.” And, to an extent, “Marvel’s Agent Carter” (the ABC show might return for a second season, though it’s up in the air).
What is with all these “event series”? Which, by the way, is basically a fancy term for “miniseries.”
TV networks are airing seven- to 10-episode series, with events concluding by the last episode.
Why now? I can think of two reasons: “American Horror Story” and “True Detective.”
These shows have captivated audiences, and even though they air for multiple seasons, they are a different show each time, with new cast members and premises.
Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk (of “Glee” fame) have churned out four seasons of “American Horror Story,” each in a different location but always with lots of thrills. Season 5, surrounding a hotel, has nabbed Lady Gaga as a star.
“True Detective” brought Oscar winner Matthew McConaughey to the small screen, alongside Woody Harrelson. Audiences were drawn to the mystery, and both actors received Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for their work. Season 2 will star Vince Vaughn and Rachel McAdams.
With these shows drawing in viewers and big-name stars, it’s no wonder other networks are following suit.
Most movie actors have little desire to commit to a TV show since it could last many years. But an event series is a short-term commitment, leaving actors free to pursue other projects.
Uma Thurman was on NBC’s “The Slap.” Anna Gunn was on “Gracepoint.” But now they can dive in to other roles.
A 10-episode show is a short-term commitment for a viewer, too. I watched all eight episodes of “The Slap” over the course of a few days.
With Netflix and Hulu feeding the binge-watching phenomenon, networks have to adapt, hence the event series.
Not every show will work as an event series, but the concept is here to stay.
