TSN is about to expand from two channels to five. That's quite a shift, which I assume is for more than just the ability to show the same programming at more and more times. Apparently part of the reason is to show more regional programming, like their competitors Sportsnet. Though the channels are being given generic numerical names, and the ads aren't playing up the regional aspect, so I'm assuming that they hope we'll see them as more than that.
Expansion would make sense if they were on the verge of greatly expanding their programming. But on the contrary, they're about to lose the national NHL contract. So they're not just losing their prime media property, they're losing it and expanding their programming hours by 150%. It further convinces me that they are going to have to build up Canada's interest in other sports.
I suppose they could just use their many channels to show the same things at different times, ensuring that no matter your schedule, there'll be a showing of Pardon The Interruption for you. But in the she of PVRs, is that really necessary? You can time-shift on your own, so you don't need multiple channels to do it for you.
And that's the second element of odd timing: this comes just on the cusp of the collapse of traditional broadcasting. At a time when downloading TV and dumping cable is the in-thing, TSN seems to be betting big on conventional TV. Hopefully they will be concentrating less on the manufactured talk shows and more on original programming.
You baby boomers are the most selfish generation to ever exist. You destroyed your own children's and grandchildren's future with your short-sighted selfishness and immaturity. And then you expect them to pay for your retirement????
ReplyDeleteCan you baby boomers just hurry up and drop dead, please?