The Conners, the popular spinoff series of Roseanne, is set to hit a major milestone in March with the airing of its 100th episode. This achievement also marks the series’ eligibility to enter off-network syndication, a significant development for the show. Following in the footsteps of its predecessor, The Conners will enter broadcast syndication in September, expanding its reach to a broader audience.
Lionsgate’s Debmar-Mercury has successfully cleared The Conners in over 85% of the United States through multi-year agreements. This strategic move ensures that the show, featuring talented actors Sara Gilbert, John Goodman, Laurie Metcalf, and Lecy Goranson, will be accessible during prime access and early fringe time slots on key networks like CBS Television Stations and stations owned by Gray, Nexstar, Lockwood, Scripps, and Weigel.
Recognizing the potential of The Conners, Werner Entertainment partnered with Lionsgate’s Worldwide Television Distribution Group and Debmar-Mercury for global and domestic distribution, respectively. The Worldwide Television Distribution Group will handle the show’s global distribution rights, including SVOD, AVOD, basic cable, and FAST rights. On the other hand, Debmar-Mercury will oversee domestic syndication, ensuring the series reaches a wide audience across different platforms.
As one of the few broadcast comedy series to achieve a sixth season, The Conners stands out in a landscape where such milestones are rare. The scarcity of long-running comedy shows has significantly reduced the off-network syndication pipeline, making The Conners’ success even more noteworthy. The recent deal with the CW for Conners repeats further solidifies the show’s position as a key player in the industry.
Looking ahead, The Conners is poised to become a mainstay in the late afternoon and early evening schedules of numerous station partners. Ira Bernstein and Mort Marcus, co-presidents of Debmar-Mercury, express confidence in the show’s longevity, citing Tom Werner’s contribution to making it the highest-rated sitcom to enter off-network syndication in recent memory. The deal, negotiated by key industry players, reflects the show’s enduring appeal and marketability in an ever-evolving television landscape.
The Conners’ journey to syndication represents a significant achievement for the series and its creators. With a strong distribution strategy in place and a dedicated fan base, the show is well-positioned to continue its success for years to come.