The Town with Matthew Belloni
What Streamers Really Want From Their Sitcoms, With a Netflix Showrunner
Apr 17, 2025
David Stassen, co-creator of Netflix’s ‘Running Point,’ brings over 15 years of experience to discuss the seismic shifts in TV comedy. He reveals how shorter seasons are reshaping writing and pitching in the streaming era. Stassen shares the challenges for comedy writers amid a changing job market and evolving definitions of success. He also touches on the behind-the-scenes dynamics of comedy projects, highlighting the importance of relationships and efficient production strategies. Plus, predictions for an exciting new film project keep the conversation lively!
35:10
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Quick takeaways
- The declining number of episodes per season pressures writers to rapidly develop compelling characters and plots for new comedies.
- The necessity of star power in show development has intensified, as established talent helps attract both viewers and funding for projects.
Deep dives
Changes in the Television Landscape
The television industry has undergone significant changes over the past decade, particularly regarding episode orders per season. Writers used to expect 22-26 episodes across network shows but now often face much shorter seasons. For example, on 'The Mindy Project,' initial orders were as high as 26, but over time, these were reduced to as few as 14 episodes in later seasons. This reduction places increased pressure on writers to develop characters and storylines quickly, making it more challenging for new comedies to establish themselves.
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