Monday, September 22, 2003

Question: Ah, the fall season has just begun. Some new shows have already premiered, and some new ones are on their way. But, this year, I’m going into the new season with a sour taste in my mouth. Last season, I fell in love with several shows that were dead within a few months, and at least two of them - Miracles and Firefly - were mistreated by their home networks. Although fan campaigns can be very large and powerful (just look at Farscape’s) it’s irritating that I seem to have to write letters to keep watching every show I like. I’ve donated time and money to several fan campaigns in the past year, but - considering that Farscape, Firefly, Miracles, John Doe, etc. are still off the air - I feel like I haven’t accomplished anything. As we enter this new season, with new shows, what can I do to keep the new gems of this season on the air? What can I do that I haven’t done already? How can I make the networks listen to me? I feel like no one can hear my voice, like my opinion doesn’t matter. How can I let them know what I really want to see, and save the shows that deserve to continue? It seems so hopeless. - Roger B.

Matt: I wish I had a good answer for you, but at least you know from past experience that you’re hardly alone. And the networks wonder why their percentage of audience declines by the year. Embracing any new TV show is a calculated risk, because of the vagaries of time slot, ratings, corporate neglect, you name it. All I can say is keep the faith. You’re fighting the good fight