Can Netflix’s Live Episodes of “Hot Ones” Boost its Talk Show Lineup?
Netflix is reportedly in talks with BuzzFeed to create live episodes of the popular YouTube talk show “Hot Ones.” This move could potentially help Netflix crack the talk show formula that it has struggled with in the past. The show, which launched in 2015, features host Sean Evans interviewing celebrity guests as they struggle to eat increasingly spicy chicken wings. The format has proven to be surprisingly durable, with episodes sometimes attracting tens of millions of viewers on YouTube.
Traditional late night talk shows have been facing declining ratings and shrinking budgets. As a result, “Hot Ones” has become a regular stop on the promotional circuit for pop stars and Hollywood actors. BuzzFeed acquired the show through its acquisition of Complex but has reportedly failed to sell it as it faces a debt repayment deadline at the end of the year.
Netflix, on the other hand, has experimented with the talk show format in the past. It has had shows hosted by Chelsea Handler and recently released “John Mulaney Presents: Everybody’s In LA.” While the latter was well-received, it was designed as a short-lived experiment, and it remains unclear if there will be a second season.
So why would Netflix turn “Hot Ones” into a live show? One reason could be the promise of seeing a celebrity melt down without the protection of editing. Live episodes would provide a sense of immediacy and unpredictability that could set them apart from the regular program. Additionally, Netflix has been exploring live content in various forms, including stand-up specials, reality TV reunions, and even acquiring the rights to WWE “Raw.”
By bringing “Hot Ones” to its platform as a live show, Netflix could enhance its talk show lineup and attract a larger audience. The show’s popularity on YouTube suggests that there is a demand for this type of content. However, it will be important for Netflix to maintain the authenticity and unique appeal of the original format while adapting it to the live setting.
While the talks between Netflix and BuzzFeed are still ongoing, if the deal goes through, it could be a win-win situation for both parties. Netflix would gain a popular talk show with a dedicated fan base, and BuzzFeed would find a new home for a show that it has been struggling to sell. However, it remains to be seen how the live episodes of “Hot Ones” will be received by audiences and whether they will help Netflix solidify its position in the talk show genre.
In conclusion, Netflix’s potential collaboration with BuzzFeed to create live episodes of “Hot Ones” could be a game-changer for the streaming giant’s talk show lineup. By capitalizing on the show’s existing popularity and experimenting with a live format, Netflix has the opportunity to attract a larger audience and differentiate itself from traditional late night talk shows. As the talks progress, it will be interesting to see how this partnership unfolds and whether it proves to be a successful venture for both Netflix and BuzzFeed.