As a result of the longevity of particular shows, many of them have developed dedicated, “life-long” fans. This could come as a result of the show using real-life stories which people can relate to or educating people about societal issues that don’t directly affect them.
Shows with large fandoms are known for having spin-off shows. Grey’s Anatomy has Station 19 and Private Practice, NCIS has 4 based in different locations, about the history of the main character, and the newest one, airing this year, being about a beloved couple that left the show (Tony and Siva, I will always miss you on the main show), Criminal Minds has two.
Spin-off shows allow fans to engage and connect with a new collection of characters, while involving some of their favourites from the main show (like how Ben and Carina are two main characters in Station 19, and Addison and Amelia were the main ones in Private Practice).
Grey’s Anatomy
Out of all of the TV show fandoms I’m a part of, the main one in my life is Grey’s Anatomy. While we’re all still mourning the loss of Station 19 (honestly, I probably always will), Grey’s Anatomy is now into its 21st season, and somehow – still creating storylines that grip our attention. I love checking twitter to see how everyone reacted to the latest episode. It’s even better, when we’ve all seen the final episode of the season, and we try to guess what will happen at the start of the next one. I’ve done this for 4 season finales, and I love getting involved and talking about everything with people that understand the chaos, stress and joy that comes with being a fan of this show.
Friends
When I was 15, I was obsessed with watching the show that followed six friends and their love for a coffee shop. Despite it ending in 2004, the fans are still ever-present. It has such a light-hearted tone that means people can relax while watching, with still having elements of drama to keep the viewer entertained, the fans are still happy to rewatch this cosy show.
NCIS
This has been a staple show since I was a child. Some of my earliest memories involve being sat with my dad and uncle, and seeing what crime Gibbs and his team would solve. I rewatched 21 seasons of it while I lived in Spain, and I laughed, I cried, I was enraged at characters leaving (Abby Sciuto and Ziva David), but most importantly, it allowed me to connect with people on social media – as we could discuss what we hoped would happen in season 22.
Ultimately, the fandoms are what keeps shows airing. The fans create views that motivate creators to make more episodes.