Say goodbye to good TV. Streaming services used to greenlight shows and movies that traditional networks wouldn't dare touch, giving us compelling stories like Stranger Things and Yellowjackets, the originality of which reeled in subscribers. But now, as streaming services are pivoting towards safer, more predictable productions, the era of good TV is ending, Ars Technica reports.

Streaming platforms are tightening their purses. The battle for dominance has become a fight for survival as most platforms struggle to turn a profit, especially with user-generated content sites overtaking streaming platforms for the first time ever. As a result, streaming giants are rethinking their strategies, prioritizing profitability over experimentation. Big players are cutting back on original scripted programming in favor of more financially secure content — their programming budgets are expected to grow by just 0.4% in 2025, according to Ampere Analysis. Amazon Prime Video is reducing its slate of original films and series, while Disney Plus’s content budget has shrunk from USD 33 bn in 2022 to a projected USD 23 bn in 2025.

Streaming is starting to resemble the very thing it once sought to replace: Cable TV. Live sports, reality shows, and franchise expansions are now the priority. Platforms are also relying more on legacy TV hits, such as Suits and The Big Bang Theory, which continue to dominate streaming viewership years after their initial runs ended. They are also embracing advertising models — mirroring cable’s reliance on commercials — forcing users to rely on ad-supported tiers. But premium subscribers aren't always safe — Amazon Prime Video recently added an extra fee for an ad-free experience, and the continuous hike in subscription fees is making convenience more and more expensive.

There is a risk of losing unique content: Paramount has already indicated that it will reduce its investment in licensing international and niche content in favor of global, mainstream hits. If other platforms follow suit, we could see fewer fresh, diverse voices in streaming, and more formulaic content designed for mass appeal and mass consumption.

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