Warren Littlefield, known for producing shows like Fargo and The Handmaid’s Tale, has shared his prediction that the turbulence in the global TV industry is far from over. During an interview at the Edinburgh TV Festival, he mentioned that surviving as an independent producer in this current climate is going to be tough. Littlefield believes that the current commissioning slowdown may last for another two years, despite many hoping for a quicker resolution. He noted that there is a decrease in the number of shows being produced, leading to a challenging period ahead.
Littlefield highlighted the shift in the way shows are being released, with streaming services opting for full-season releases instead of the traditional network model. While acknowledging that streamers and networks are commissioning shows at a slower pace, he sees the release format as a positive change. This alteration allows viewers to binge-watch shows and eliminates the uncertainty of cancellations mid-season. Littlefield emphasized the importance of supporting and nurturing a creative vision, a sentiment he carried from his time at NBC in the 1990s to his recent productions like The Handmaid’s Tale and Fargo.
Littlefield shared anecdotes from his career, showcasing moments where creative risks led to massive success. He recounted instances where he stood firm in his support for certain talents, like refusing to replace Jennifer Aniston in Friends despite pressure from NBC executives. His decision to take a chance on shows like Seinfeld and Will & Grace, even when faced with skepticism from advertisers and colleagues, paid off in the end. Littlefield’s approach to taking risks in the industry is simple yet bold – trusting his gut instinct and going against the conventional wisdom.
Throughout his talk, Littlefield emphasized the importance of embracing fear and uncertainty in the creative process. He admitted that the things he fought for and believed in often turned out to be the most successful projects. Littlefield’s willingness to challenge the status quo and push boundaries has been a driving force behind his successful career in television production. He encouraged aspiring producers and creatives to take risks, stay true to their vision, and not be afraid to go against the grain.
Warren Littlefield’s insights into the TV industry shed light on the challenges and opportunities that exist in the current landscape. As the industry continues to evolve, independent producers and creators must be prepared to navigate through the uncertainties and take calculated risks to achieve success. Littlefield’s bold approach serves as an inspiration for those looking to make their mark in the ever-changing world of television.