A lot of fans have been questioning CBS's decision to put the upcoming Star Trek: Discovery show on a digital-only platform. These questions will only increase after the latest statement from CBS Interactive CEO Jim Lanzone. He claimed that Star Trek wouldn't do well on broadcast television due to being a sci-fi show, io9 reports.
"Sci-fi is not something that has traditionally done really well on broadcast," Lanzone stated. "It's not impossible, for the future, if somebody figures it out. And things like Lost and Heroes have had parts of, you know, scifi, but historically, a show like Star Trek wouldn't necessarily be a broadcast show, at this point."
He went on to say, " And so, you kind of look at the other networks we have, CW and Showtime, it just fit the with the digital audience and having that digital Star Trek audience." He also stated that being online would allow the show to have freer reign when it comes to swearing and nudity. That's nice and all, but those aren't really things one would traditionally associate with Star Trek anyway.
Lanzone making the argument that sci-fi shows wouldn't do well on television is a bit baffling, to say the least. Not only are DC and Marvel TV shows doing pretty well, The Walking Dead is technically sci-fi and it's one of the most popular shows out there. And considering Star Trek has been on broadcast television for years and years, this is likely to ruffle a few fan feathers.
I'm not convinced putting Star Trek on a digital platform fans have to pay a mint just to access is a good plan. I'd much rather it be on TV. What do you think? Is CBS making smart decisions with Star Trek? Or are they mishandling the property?
Read: Star Trek: Discovery Delayed Until Summer 2017
Read: The Iconic Star Trek Computer Voice May Be Coming to Discovery and Smart Phones
Explore new topics and discover content that's right for you!
Fandoms