The year 2023 marked a significant shift in the realm of global TV formats, as The Traitors emerged as a formidable force with 11 territory launches, dethroning The Masked Singer from its throne as the reigning Format of the Year according to analysis firm K7. This marked a stark departure from the previous four years of The Masked Singer’s domination, signaling a turning point in the television landscape.
The trajectory of The Traitors saw a remarkable 57% increase in premieres worldwide, with countries like Spain on HBO Max, Germany, and Finland jumping on board to launch their own versions. This surge in popularity was highlighted in K7’s Tracking the Giants report, set to be unveiled at MIP TV in Cannes, showcasing the series’ rapid ascent to the top of the global format charts.
The Traitors: A Game of Strategy and Deception
Originating from The Netherlands, The Traitors is a high-stakes drama that pits a group of reality stars or non-celebrities against each other in a murder mystery game. The contestants must work together to build a prize fund of up to $250,000, but hidden among them are the Traitors whose objective is to eliminate the rest and claim the reward for themselves. This intriguing premise has captivated audiences around the world, propelling the show to new heights of success.
The buzz surrounding The Traitors has not only bolstered its viewership but also led to a surge in sales for distributor All3Media International, expanding its repertoire of active formats by 8% to 170. The show’s popularity has been instrumental in solidifying its position as a global phenomenon, with more launches slated for 2024 to bring its total reach to 30 countries worldwide.
As The Traitors ascends to new heights, the television industry is witnessing a wave of innovation and diversification in format offerings. Shows like John de Mol’s The Floor, featuring intense quiz duels on a giant LED floor, and Banijay’s Good Luck Guys, which throws influencers into a survival challenge on a remote beach, are pushing the boundaries of traditional TV formats.
The recognition of Fremantle’s Family Feud as the Revival of the Year and Amazon’s LOL: Last One Laughing as the Streamer Format Star reflects a growing trend of nostalgia and experimentation in TV programming. With streaming platforms like Prime Video also making their mark as Rising Format Buyers, the landscape of television formats is evolving rapidly to meet the changing demands of global audiences.
In response to declining ad revenues and lower program budgets, broadcasters are increasingly turning to proven formats with a track record of success. This risk-averse approach has led to a resurgence of classic formats and franchises on screens, with quiz and game show titles taking center stage in the evolving TV landscape.
The year 2023 saw a notable increase in the revival of iconic formats, signaling a shift towards familiarity and reliability in programming choices. Shows like Family Feud gaining traction once again underscore the importance of established brands in a market characterized by uncertainty and fluctuating trends.
Japan: A Rising Star in Global Formats
The success of LOL: Last One Laughing paved the way for Japan to emerge as the fourth largest exporter of TV formats, behind established giants like the U.S., the UK, and The Netherlands. Japan’s resurgence was also fueled by the revival of popular shows like Dragons’ Den, along with hits like Ninja Warrior and Hole in the Wall making waves in new territories.
In a year where established players like the U.S. and the UK faced stiff competition, Japan’s innovative approach to TV formats and its embrace of diverse programming choices underscored the shifting dynamics of the global television industry. As the demand for fresh ideas and engaging content continues to grow, Japan’s contributions to the format landscape are poised to make a lasting impact on viewers worldwide.