Reviving the Holiday Episode Tradition in Streaming TV
With Halloween and Thanksgiving now behind us, the holiday season is fast approaching—bringing Mariah Carey back into the musical spotlight. Traditionally, this time of year meant eagerly anticipating special holiday episodes from our favorite television shows. However, in today’s streaming-dominated landscape, these much-loved episodes have become increasingly scarce.
Decline of Holiday Episodes
The shift to streaming platforms has not only reduced the number of episodes per season—commonly falling below 20—but has also almost eradicated the beloved tradition of holiday-centric episodes. While we used to look forward to themed episodes for Christmas, Thanksgiving, and even Halloween, such seasonal celebrations seem to be fading from our screens. Series like Brooklyn Nine-Nine, known for its festive Halloween episodes, stand out as rare exceptions. Shows like Ghosts are still carrying the torch of this holiday cheer, and for that, many fans are grateful.
The New Episode Format
When a holiday episode does make an appearance today, it’s often squeezed into a broader narrative, losing its significance as a standalone celebration. As nice as the binge-watching experience is, it’s hard not to feel nostalgic for the joy of discovering a special holiday episode during a summertime marathon. The convenience of streaming makes it easy to watch content at any time, but it doesn’t replicate the structured excitement of waiting for a show to return in the fall.
Changing Show Schedules
Previously, shows adhered to a reliable broadcast schedule. Miss an episode? You had to wait for a rerun or purchase the series on DVD. This predictable rhythm allowed for a natural seasonal progression. Now, with shows premiering at various times throughout the year, it’s challenging to align specific holiday-themed episodes with their respective seasons. This disruption has also led to the disappearance of quirky made-up holidays like Galentine’s Day from shows such as Parks and Recreation, which lent a unique charm to their storylines.
Nostalgia for the Old Ways
While having the flexibility to watch favorite shows anytime is a boon, many viewers miss the tradition of a set TV schedule that came with designated holiday specials. There was something special about summer breaks and the thrill of new seasons debuting in the fall, filled with episodes designed for all of the major celebrations. Special holiday episodes used to capture the spirit of the season, allowing fans to revel in the joy of the festivities alongside beloved characters.
Character Connections in Holiday Episodes
There is a longing for more character development and storytelling depth, which often flourished in holiday episodes of the past. For instance, Friends became iconic partially due to its memorable holiday adventures that captured light-hearted and humorous moments, a formula that appears less common in contemporary streaming content. Similarly, shows like Supernatural and House, M.D. showcased thoughtful holiday story arcs that diverged from their usual narrative patterns, offering fans something refreshing and unique.
The Need for Holiday Content
Although some recent series like Ted Lasso have attempted to bring holiday episodes back, these offerings feel few and far between. The abundance and longevity of TV series seem to dwindle in a streaming world that prioritizes quick consumption over sustainable comedic or festive storytelling. Personally, the nostalgia of enjoying a Christmas episode while surrounded by holiday decorations—even amid summer’s heat—holds a special kind of magic that is sorely missed.
A Plea for Streaming Networks
With all of this said, it’s a heartfelt plea to streaming platforms: please consider reviving the enchanting tradition of holiday episodes. Amid an increasingly chaotic world, there is a profound joy to be found in these small, festive moments that enrich the viewing experience and connect us with the spirit of the seasons.
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