CBS is taking a bold stand in the TV landscape, bucking the trend of other networks and doubling down on scripted shows. But is this a risky move or a strategic masterstroke? Let's dive into the details and find out!
The network kicked off its fall premiere week with a bang, leveraging the massive audience of a football doubleheader to launch a week filled with new and returning series. The spotlight was on two female-led mystery dramas: the Emmy-nominated 'Matlock,' starring Kathy Bates, and 'Elsbeth,' a spinoff of 'The Good Wife,' featuring a quirky lawyer teaming up with the NYPD. These shows embody the classic 'CBS show' formula—reliable procedurals with creative twists—and consistently rank among the network's most-watched programs.
Here's where it gets intriguing: while other networks are scaling back on scripted content, CBS is going all in. With 17 consecutive seasons as the most-watched broadcast network under its belt, CBS has a proven track record of success. But in the 2025-26 season, it's taking a different path by introducing several new scripted shows while competitors opt for cheaper unscripted content and sports. The network's confidence stems from its history of launching the most-watched new series for nine consecutive TV seasons, a feat that justifies their continued investment in scripted projects.
CBS Entertainment President Amy Reisenbach emphasizes their mission: reaching the largest audience possible. And the numbers speak for themselves—the audience is indeed there for these shows. However, the pressure is on as linear television revenue continues to decline year after year. Despite this challenge, CBS maintains its ratings dominance, and its executives believe in the power of quality programming to retain loyal viewers.
But here's the twist: CBS is not immune to the industry's financial pressures. With Paramount's merger with Skydance and the focus on bolstering Paramount+, the network faces potential budget cuts. And with the new leadership's interest in expanding sports programming, the future of CBS's schedule could be in flux.
The network's strategy is evident in its fall lineup, which includes 15 new and returning scripted series, such as 'NCIS' spinoffs, 'Fire Country' and its spinoff 'Sheriff Country,' and a 'Big Bang Theory' spinoff. They're also introducing a music competition series produced by Taylor Sheridan and a new workplace comedy set in a DMV. CBS attributes its success to its close development relationship with its sibling studio, ensuring shows that resonate across platforms.
The confidence in CBS's strategy is shared by Paramount CEO David Ellison, who praised the fall lineup as one of the strongest in the company's history. The network's executives believe in the power of consistency, delivering quality year after year, while also evolving the brand and keeping shows fresh. This approach is exemplified by the upcoming 'Boston Blue,' a spinoff of the beloved 'Blue Bloods,' which continues the DNA of the original series while introducing new characters and storylines.
CBS's programming strategy has proven successful beyond traditional TV, with shows like 'Tracker' and 'Matlock' ranking among the top in multiplatform viewing across streamers and broadcasters. This success is further evidenced by CBS Studios producing 10 out of the top 11 series in multiplatform viewing among broadcasters. The symbiotic relationship between CBS and its studio has led to hit spinoffs like 'Sheriff Country,' which was strategically scheduled after its flagship show 'Fire Country' to build anticipation and ensure a strong launch.
While CBS's future may be uncertain, with potential cuts and a shifting focus on sports, the network's leadership remains optimistic. They believe their track record and understanding of the industry will help navigate these challenges. But the question remains: will CBS's commitment to scripted shows pay off in an evolving media landscape? Only time will tell, and the audience's response will be the ultimate judge.
