According to Ampere Analysis’ report, in the first half of 2025, the six biggest global streamers, Apple, Amazon, Disney+, HBO Max, Netflix, and Paramount+, ordered 242 new or renewed Scripted TV shows. This data indicates a 24% drop compared to 318 in the same period last year.
Across the whole industry (excluding these SVoDs), Scripted commissions dropped just 8%, showing that the big streamers cut much more sharply. All the six platforms cut back, though Netflix and Apple were least affected, down only 6% and 4%. Amazon made the biggest cuts, slashing more than half its Scripted orders, with Asia-Pacific hit hardest, where the commissions fell 52%.
Western Europe also saw a steep 44% drop, especially in Crime & Thriller series, which had been a core genre for the streamers’ productions in the region. By contrast, North America held steady with 95 titles (the same as last year), and Latin America defied the trend with a 17% rise.
The decline reflects a shift in strategy after the “peak TV” era. Streamers are investing less in Originals, being more cautious with new commissions, and relying more on licensed content. An uncertain economy and possible taxes on international productions have also played a role.
Ampere Analysis’s data shows a brief recovery in April 2025, followed by a dip in May after the US announced new movie tariffs. But if the economic outlook and tariff situation stabilize, Scripted orders may rebound in the second half of the year.
See also: A Year in Series Panel: Key Insights from Ampere Analysis at Series Mania Forum 2025
