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Podcasts' Rise Threatens Traditional TV Talk Shows
11 Feb
Summary
- Video podcasts are gaining traction, challenging traditional TV talk shows.
- Cable viewership has significantly declined, while podcast listenership has surged.
- Hollywood unions face challenges as podcast production bypasses traditional systems.
The landscape of television talk shows is undergoing a seismic shift as video podcasts increasingly capture audiences and high-profile guests, leading to the cancellation of staples like "The Kelly Clarkson Show" and "Sherri." Cable viewership has seen a stark decline, dropping 39 percent between spring 2021 and 2025, now accounting for just over 24 percent of all viewing. In contrast, the time spent listening to podcasts has surged by 355 percent since 2015, reaching 773 million hours weekly.
This transition is driven by the cost-effectiveness and broad reach of digital platforms, including YouTube and Netflix, which are now hosting video podcasts. Industry veterans note that video podcasts offer longform conversations that guests often prefer over the brief segments typical of traditional late-night shows. Celebrities and even political figures are increasingly appearing on podcasts to promote projects and engage with a wider audience.
Concerns are mounting within Hollywood regarding the impact on unionized jobs. While some progress has been made in organizing podcast writers, many other unions representing crew members face challenges as podcast production often operates outside traditional network structures. This evolving media environment signals a significant challenge for legacy television and its established workforce.
