Episode Description: The Golden Age of Must-See TV with Warren Littlefield

In this episode of our podcast, host Matt Belloni sits down with Warren Littlefield, former executive at NBC who played a pivotal role in running the network during the iconic must-see TV era. Join us as they delve into the competitive landscape of primetime television, the significance of respecting the audience, and the strategic moves that shaped the success of various shows.

Littlefield shares captivating stories about the development and triumphs of beloved sitcoms like Friends and Seinfeld. Discover the challenges faced during the creation of these shows, including the initial negative reception of Seinfeld and the failures of pilots like Red Pepper. Gain insights into the decision-making process behind strategic time slot moves and how they impacted the success of these shows.

As the conversation progresses, Belloni and Littlefield explore the current state of the television industry. They discuss the profound impact of streaming services and how they have transformed the way audiences consume content. Additionally, they speculate on the potential future of the industry and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

If you're a fan of classic sitcoms or have an interest in the inner workings of the television industry, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we dive into the golden age of must-see TV with Warren Littlefield.

Matt is joined by producer and former NBC executive Warren Littlefield to discuss the state of broadcast television and how the industry has changed from the heyday of the must-see TV era of the ’90s. Warren talks about what it was like to run a TV network in the ’90s—and when shows would generate ratings that seem unthinkable today—and how the fall TV slate has declined in the streaming era. Matt finishes the show with a box office prediction about a slate of movies being released this weekend. For a 20 percent discount on Matt’s Hollywood insider newsletter, ‘What I’m Hearing ...,’ click here. Email us your thoughts! thetown@spotify.com Host: Matt Belloni Guest: Warren Littlefield Producer: Craig Horlbeck and Jessie Lopez Theme Song: Devon Renaldo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices