NBCUniversal has made the decision to discontinue original production for first-run syndication, which means the end of shows like “Access Hollywood,” “Access Hollywood Live,” “Karamo,” and “The Steve Wilkos Show.” This move reflects the challenges of attracting a daytime TV audience in today’s landscape of YouTube and audience fragmentation. While “Access Hollywood” will continue to produce original episodes until September, “Karamo” and “Steve Wilkos” have already wrapped up production, with their final episodes airing through the summer. Additionally, “The Kelly Clarkson Show” will also come to an end after seven seasons this year.
First-run syndication involves selling TV shows to stations market-by-market rather than through a single network platform. This model was once lucrative for stars like Oprah Winfrey and Ellen DeGeneres, but the rise of streaming has made it difficult for major players to justify the investment. NBCUniversal’s Frances Berwick stated that the company will focus on distributing existing programs and winding down production of first-run shows to better align with the preferences of local stations.
As NBCUniversal adjusts its syndication division, other shows like “Sherri Shepherd” have announced their endings, leaving a gap in the daytime talk show market. Despite these changes, established shows like “Live With Kelly and Mark,” “Drew Barrymore,” and “Jennifer Hudson” are expected to continue. Frank Cicha of Fox TV Stations noted that the economics of daytime talk and syndication have shifted, making it challenging to sustain shows with declining audiences.
“Access Hollywood,” currently in its 30th year, is hosted by Mario Lopez, Kit Hoover, Scott Evans, and Zuri Hall. “Karamo,” hosted by Karamo Brown, is in its fourth season, while “The Steve Wilkos Show” is in its 19th season. NBCUniversal Syndication Studios, the result of a merger between NBC Enterprises and Universal Domestic TV Distribution in 2004, oversees these shows.
“Access Hollywood” has had various syndicated distributors over the years, starting with New World/Genesis Distribution before transitioning to 20th Television and Warner Bros. Domestic Television Distribution. When NBC established its own syndicated division, NBC Enterprises took over distribution duties.
In conclusion, NBCUniversal’s decision to end original production for first-run syndication reflects the changing landscape of daytime TV and the challenges of attracting viewers in today’s media environment. The industry will continue to evolve as established shows adapt to new market conditions.
