When discussing the comparison of streaming platforms to network TV shows during NBC's portion of the Winter TCA press tour, NBC President of Research & Development Alan Wurtzel stated that the shift from traditional TV to streaming isn't happening as rapidly as some think. According to the data Wurtzel pulled, over the course of 35 days between last September and December only averaged 4.8 million people (per episode) in the key, 18-49 demographic, watched Marvel's Jessica Jones. "Compare these programs to shows like The Big Bang Theory, Empire or Blind Spot, and they pale in comparison. It’s not that people aren’t watching, but they (streaming) aren’t replacing broadcast."
To add to Wurtzel's point, a show like Big Bang Theory garners 18 million viewers per episode in the coveted 18-49 demographic. Fox's Empire averages 17 million viewers. Even a freshman drama like Blind Spot earned roughly 13 million viewers an episode.
Wurtzel stated that the key for Netflix is its business model, which doesn't rely on advertising dollars. "That Netflix has a different business model. Their model is for you to write a check once a month. Some shows have a narrow audience, but they don’t care as long as there is enough people coming back next month."
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