In March, The Conners will celebrate its 100th episode, marking a significant milestone for the series. This achievement allows the show to enter off-network syndication, opening up new opportunities for its distribution and reach. Lionsgate’s Debmar-Mercury has secured multi-year deals for The Conners, making it available to audiences across the United States. With its star-studded cast and loyal fan base, the show has become a favorite among viewers and industry professionals alike.
The Conners, a spinoff of the immensely popular Roseanne series, will follow its predecessor into broadcast syndication in September. Lionsgate’s partnership with Debmar-Mercury has ensured that the series is cleared in more than 85% of the U.S., guaranteeing widespread availability for eager audiences. The show will be aired in coveted access and early fringe time periods (3 PM – 8 PM) on the CBS Television Stations and stations owned by Gray, Nexstar, Lockwood, Scripps, and Weigel. This strategic move allows The Conners to maximize its exposure and attract a larger viewership.
Werner Entertainment, the production company behind The Conners, collaborated with Lionsgate’s Worldwide Television Distribution Group and Debmar-Mercury to develop a distribution strategy tailored to the show’s needs. The Worldwide Television Distribution Group handles global distribution, including rights for SVOD (Subscription Video on Demand), AVOD (Advertising Video on Demand), basic cable, and FAST (Free Ad-Supported Television) platforms. On the other hand, Debmar-Mercury is responsible for ensuring domestic syndication. This partnership between production companies and distribution powerhouses allows for comprehensive coverage and ensures that The Conners will be accessible to audiences worldwide.
Lionsgate recently struck a unique deal with the CW (The CW Television Network) for Conners repeats to air in primetime. This arrangement reflects the show’s popularity and its potential to attract viewers outside of its regular broadcast time slots. By bringing The Conners to primetime, Lionsgate aims to broaden the show’s audience reach, enticing new viewers who may not have previously been exposed to the series.
As The Conners enters its sixth season on ABC, it remains one of the network’s most-watched comedy series. The combination of its talented cast, compelling storylines, and relatable humor has struck a chord with audiences. This success has solidified The Conners’ position as a top-rated sitcom and ensures its place in the late afternoon and early evening schedules of many station partners for years to come, according to Ira Bernstein and Mort Marcus, co-presidents of Debmar-Mercury.
The Changing Landscape of Syndication
The off-network syndication pipeline for comedy series has experienced a decline in recent times. With fewer comedy series being ordered and even fewer reaching six seasons, the opportunities for syndication have dried up for many shows. However, with its strong performance and dedicated fan base, The Conners breaks through this trend and paves the way for a new era of syndication possibilities.
The Conners’ upcoming 100th episode marks a significant milestone for the series and opens up exciting prospects for its distribution. Through strategic partnerships and innovative deals, Lionsgate, Werner Entertainment, and Debmar-Mercury have positioned the show for success in off-network syndication. As The Conners continues to captivate audiences with its humor and relatable characters, it is poised to become a timeless favorite in the world of broadcast television.