The Real Reality: Scripted TV Shows Make Money (Lots Of It)

So you think the reality shows are going to completely take over the TV landscape? Don’t count on it. “According to a recent Morgan Stanley research report, profits from scripted shows (before syndication) have risen 36 percent over the last five years, to $3 billion this season from $2.2 billion in 1998-99 — and that’s without any new breakout hits. So despite predictions that this fall’s schedule would be flooded with low-cost reality shows, and that writers would find themselves teaching “The Art of Sitcoms” at the Learning Annex, there appear to be at least as many drama and comedy pilots in production as last year.”