MBC's previously popular dramas are currently facing a challenging situation with low viewership ratings, gradually losing prominence in the eyes of the public. Although viewership numbers are not the sole measure of success in the current era of diverse content available through streaming services, the decline of MBC's Friday-Saturday drama time slot is concerning.
The recent dramas aired by MBC lacked the desired attention and viewership, sparking questions about 'Oh My Ghost Clients,' the upcoming drama scheduled to debut on the 30th. Featuring Jung Kyung Ho, this comedy-fantasy series tells the story of a labor lawyer with the unique ability to communicate with ghosts while addressing various labor-related issues.
With Im Soon Rye at the helm as the director, known for works like 'Forever the Moment' and 'The Point Men,' and the writing team consisting of Kim Bo Tong, who contributed to the acclaimed drama 'D.P.,' and Yoo Seung Hee, renowned for 'I Can Speak,' 'Oh My Ghost Clients' has garnered attention from fans and industry insiders.
While it's premature to make assumptions about the drama's success, MBC's timing raises doubts. Despite MBC dramas struggling to reach viewership rates above 1-2%, rival SBS has experienced notable growth, exemplified by 'The Haunted Palace' achieving a strong 9.2% viewership on its premiere episode. Additionally, the historical drama appeals to a wider audience demographic, potentially leading to further ratings success. As 'Oh My Ghost Clients' faces intense competition upon its release, the competitive landscape remains daunting for MBC.
An industry expert highlighted the evolving importance of content quality over traditional viewership figures for terrestrial TV dramas. Networks are now focusing on platforms such as Netflix, TVING, and Disney+ for reruns, emphasizing the need for careful assessment rather than hasty judgments.
In the midst of this dynamic environment, 'Crushology 101' is being streamed on TVING, contrasting with 'The Haunted Palace' available on Netflix. Despite MBC's historical reputation as a drama powerhouse, recent trends suggest a decline in viewership, stirring disappointment among audiences. Nonetheless, the network's legacy and dedication are crucial elements to consider amid the challenging landscape.
As 'Oh My Ghost Clients' prepares for its premiere, there is anticipation surrounding its potential to revitalize MBC's drama lineup and overcome the prevailing challenges in the industry.