NBC Shows Find New Life on Netflix

Universal Television is extending its broadcast series licensing to Netflix. Following the February U.S. launch of 'The Hunting Party,' two other NBC sophomore series, 'Happy's Place' and 'St. Denis Medical,' debuted their first seasons on Netflix in the U.S. on April 1. The multi-cam sitcom 'Happy's Place,' starring Reba McEntire, quickly entered Netflix's Daily Top 10. The single-camera comedy 'St. Denis Medical' has also maintained a presence on Peacock's Daily Top 10 and fits well with Peacock's library of popular shows.

These licensing agreements with Netflix for 'Happy's Place' and 'St. Denis Medical' are intended to boost their visibility and generate extra income for the studio. Unlike these two comedies, which have been renewed, 'The Hunting Party's' fate is still undecided. Its performance on Netflix may influence NBC's renewal decision for the drama.

'The Hunting Party' initially performed well on Netflix, reaching the Global Top 10 in its first week despite being U.S.-only and opening at number two on the weekly U.S. chart. However, its presence on the charts was short-lived. Furthermore, there has been no apparent positive impact on 'The Hunting Party's' linear ratings on NBC. The crime drama remains one of NBC's lowest-rated scripted series on linear television, though it has occasionally appeared in Peacock's Daily Top 10 for next-day new episodes.

The uncertainty surrounding 'The Hunting Party's' renewal is exacerbated by NBC's decision to order multiple drama pilots. This situation increases pressure on series in limbo, like 'The Hunting Party' and 'Brilliant Minds,' potentially raising the bar for their renewal. A final decision for 'The Hunting Party' may be postponed until the performance of NBC's drama pilots is assessed.