At Series Mania Forum 2025, Ampere Analysis’ Executive Director Guy Bisson and Research Manager Cyrine Amor took the stage to offer a deep dive into the future of content. Their analysis explored everything from what’s in development to what’s making it to screens. Who’s still commissioning, and what are they looking for? Which genres are thriving, and which shows are getting a second season, or facing cancellation?
A Year in Series
“Globally there was an average of 587 first-run scripted series order each quarter in 2024 compared to an average of 777 during peak TV. This represents a decline of 25% …meaning we are at 75% Peak TV!”
Crime remains the dominant genre in Europe (31% of commissions in late 2024). Comedy has made a strong comeback, becoming the third most-commissioned genre. Sci-fi and fantasy have faced higher cancellation risks.
Who is commissioning in Europe?
Streamers Focus on Renewals
Instead of betting on fresh, original projects, streamers are investing more in renewals, reducing first-run commissions.
The global six streamers in Europe are significantly increasing their investments in Crime & Thriller, Comedy, and Romance. Also, the global streamers continue to look to international markets for their first run scripted.
Where are we going?
Asian powerhouses are playing an increasingly vital role in new scripted series and
global streamers are producing more ‘in-house’ or through major European production groups.
In Western Europe, intellectual property (IP) is becoming more critical than ever, with platforms relying on proven franchises and literary adaptations to attract audiences. Meanwhile, in the U.S., there’s a renewed appetite for experimentation, signaling a more risk-tolerant approach to development.
Budget constraints on Western European public service broadcasters (PSBs) are pushing them to lean further into IP-based content, with literary adaptations becoming a key strategy.
As platforms refine their strategies, some clear trends are emerging:
Representation & Diversity
While representation has been a priority in recent years, the latest data suggests a shift:
Diversity in representation of sexual orientations and gender identities is losing share outside of APAC and the gender gap is narrowing, signaling progress toward more balanced representation.
