If you’re like me, the end of the year means eagerly reading every “best of” list you can get your hands on. This probably also results in your “must watch” list tripling in length.
That list might get even longer than usual this year. According to new figures released by FX Networks Research, the number of scripted original series in 2016 reached a record high of 455.
That’s up from 421 scripted original series in 2015 and 389 the year before that.
This increase surely speaks to the transformation in how we watch and engage with television. Shows compete for a place in our queues, not just against the other options airing in the same timeslot. And the variety of TV content out there is reflected in those “best of” lists; this year it seems no two critics agree on what the top 5 programs were, let alone the top 20.
So don’t beat yourself up for not having watched all the shows on The A.V. Club or Vulture’s “Best Of” lists, because there are an unprecedented number of options.
Now, if you need me I’ll be binge watching Atlanta, The Night Of, and Westworld all next week.
