While we are in the eye of the storm that is “peak TV,” so much of our best television isn’t on traditional platforms. While Netflix’s original programming was met with disbelief, the online streaming service, in addition to Amazon Prime Instant Video and Hulu, are garnering attention and nominations that rival traditional network TV.
In 2015, Amazon, Hulu, and Netflix all received Golden Globe nominations, cementing the streaming services’ status as serious players on prime time TV. CivicScience has been tracking opinions on original content for each service, but I wanted to explore specifically how the critical praise could be affecting viewer opinion.
It’s clear in the past year that Netflix is still king of original content. Given the sheer amount of programming the service puts out, this is no surprise. In fact, 60% of Amazon Prime Instant Video fans also have a favorable view of Netflix. 42% of Hulu fans feel the same way. Netflix’s content has been around longer than its competitors, and it’s first to market strategy has paid off in awareness.
But, don’t count Amazon Prime Video out of the game.
Amazon Prime Instant Video started small but sure upward trend in Q1 2016. In January, Amazon won two Golden Globes for “Mozart in the Jungle” (Best Comedy/Musical Series and Best Actor.)
This wasn’t Amazon’s first win, but it was the only streaming service to take home statues that awards ceremony. Add to that the consistent buzz and wins for “Transparent,” and the slow, but steady uptick makes sense.
The platform doesn’t have nearly as much original content as Netflix. But, it’s garnering critical acclaim, which could be the cause of the small uptick in original content fans.
It’s also worth noting the recent drop in “I’m not sure” responses. It would suggest that each platform is getting the message out about their respective shows. The problem is, there’s already so much programming, it’s hard to be heard above the noise.
Next time, we’ll look into profiles of the fans of each platform.
