The State of TV: Mid-ness, Mediocrity, and the Summer Lineup

TV Industry Struggles to Recover from Last Year’s Strikes, Resulting in Mid-Range Programming

The TV industry is currently facing a unique challenge as it tries to recover from the strikes that occurred last year. Studios are playing it safe by investing in the safest and most milquetoast programming possible, resulting in a wave of mid-range TV shows that are leaving viewers feeling underwhelmed.

The concept of “mid TV” has been explored by critics like James Poniewozik, who describe it as programming that falls short in terms of ambition, imagination, or execution. These shows may have gaps or missing elements that fail to fully engage viewers, leading to a sense of stagnation in the overall TV landscape.

Despite the lackluster offerings, there are still some standout shows that are worth checking out. “We Are Lady Parts,” a coming-of-age dramedy about a punk-rock band of British Muslim women, has been praised for its energetic pacing and whip-smart writing. Similarly, “Clipped,” a limited series based on the scandal that brought down former Clippers owner Donald Sterling, offers a contemporary take on a real-life event.

Other upcoming shows, such as “Becoming Karl Lagerfeld” and “Fantasmas,” promise to deliver the flashy costumes and catty dialogue that make fashion biopics and unique storytelling experiences so entertaining. Additionally, the return of “My Life Is Murder” and the new series “Sunny” offer light-hearted mysteries and neo-futuristic settings that provide a welcome escape from the current TV landscape.

As the industry continues to navigate the aftermath of the strikes and the challenges of producing engaging content, viewers can expect a mix of mid-range and potentially groundbreaking shows to fill their screens. While not every show may hit the mark, there are still plenty of options to explore and enjoy this summer.