Fox’s Krapopolis: Navigating Fall Schedule Amid Strikes
The highly anticipated animated series, Krapopolis, created by Dan Harmon and renewed for its third season ahead of its premiere, is set to grace the screens of Fox this month.
Fox’s Push for Animation in the Face of Strikes
Fox’s President of Entertainment, Michael Thorn, believes that Krapopolis marks a significant moment for the network, as it stands as one of the few new scripted originals on broadcast television this year. However, this launch also underscores a pressing issue faced by broadcast networks during the ongoing writers and actors strikes.
The Stakes for Fox and the Industry
The strikes have cast a shadow over the availability of new scripted content on Fox, ABC, CBS, and NBC for the current season. Despite this challenge, Thorn is optimistic about the significance of Krapopolis on both a show level and a corporate strategy level.
Krapopolis: A Symbol of Fox’s Growth Strategy
As the first Bento Box-owned show, Krapopolis holds special importance for Fox, as it aligns with the network’s commitment to animation. Fox’s growth strategy also includes forging direct deals with creators like Dan Harmon, making Krapopolis a pivotal milestone in their plans.
Meet the Comedy Set in Mythical Ancient Greece
Krapopolis, a comedy set in mythical ancient Greece, boasts a talented voice cast featuring Hannah Waddingham, Richard Ayoade, Matt Berry, Pam Murphy, and Duncan Trussell. The series will premiere on September 24, following an NFL doubleheader, before settling into its regular timeslot as part of Fox’s Animation Domination block on October 1.
A Curated Launch Strategy
Fox will introduce another show, Grimsburg, a Jon Hamm-narrated detective comedy, during the midseason. Rather than launching both series together, Fox aims to provide each show with a curated launch strategy to give them the spotlight they deserve.
Fox’s Unique Sunday Night Premiere
Despite the strikes, Fox has managed to secure a unique position with its Sunday night premiere on October 1. This premiere night will offer the only full night of new scripted programming across the entire broadcast schedule.
Challenges for Returning and New Shows
The strikes have undoubtedly disrupted the fall schedule, affecting returning shows like Animal Control, Alert: Missing Persons Unit, and Accused, as well as new series like Doc and Rescue: Hi-Surf. Fox, however, remains committed to supporting these shows when they return.
Maintaining Viewer Interest
Fox recognizes the challenge of maintaining viewer interest during the strike-induced gap and hopes that continuity marketing campaigns will help sustain the momentum they had at the beginning of the year.
A Deadline Looms
October 1 is viewed as the critical deadline for resolving the strikes to allow scripted shows, including 9-1-1: Lone Star and The Cleaning Lady, to return during the 2023-24 broadcast season.
Exploring Alternative Options
While traditional development is on hold due to the strikes, Fox is actively exploring alternative options. This includes considering co-productions with international partners and exploring unique content models with companies from around the world.
A Global Marketplace for Content
Fox’s openness to collaboration with international partners highlights the global nature of the entertainment industry and the potential for content to emerge from unexpected sources.
As Fox prepares to launch Krapopolis and navigate the challenges posed by the strikes, the network remains committed to delivering quality entertainment to its viewers and exploring innovative approaches to content creation.
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