In recent years, major streaming platforms like Netflix and Disney+ reimagined their content strategies. With rising production costs and shifts in viewer preferences, the spotlight shifted to procedural and crime dramas—genres long revered for their widespread appeal and cost efficiency.
This trend, often described as the “broadcast-ification” of streaming, marked a move away from high-budget epics and experimental content that once defined streaming’s golden age. Instead, companies embraced tried-and-true formulas.
According to a report by Ampere Analysis, nearly 50% of all new scripted commissions for streaming platforms in Western Europe had been crime dramas. This genre’s enduring popularity stemmed from its universal themes, gripping narratives, and flexibility to cater to casual and dedicated viewers.
Stefan Kyriazis, an entertainment analyst, commented, “Crime dramas have always been a safe bet. They’re a genre that resonated across cultures and could be produced with varying budget levels. Streaming platforms recognized this balance between creativity and cost efficiency.”
The transition also reflected the broader financial pressures within the industry. During an earnings call, Netflix’s co-CEO, Ted Sarandos, noted, “As the market matured, we focused on delivering consistent, dependable content that audiences loved. Procedurals and crime dramas fit that bill beautifully.”
However, critics raised concerns about the potential lack of innovation. Film and television critic Melanie Masters argued, “While it’s understandable that platforms needed to cut costs, there was a risk that this shift could stifle creativity and prevent groundbreaking stories from reaching audiences.”
