The Future of TV: How Will Your Viewing Habits Change if Cable Bundles Disappear?

The television industry has always been in flux, but recent shifts suggest that the traditional TV model as we know it may be on borrowed time. 

According to a recent Hollywood Reporter article, the era of cable bundles could be nearing its end, forcing networks and viewers to navigate an increasingly fragmented landscape. 

But what does that mean for you, the dedicated TV fan?

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For years, network television has been the backbone of our collective TV experience. 

Shows like Matlock, The Rookie, Chicago Fire, and Grey’s Anatomy continue to dominate weekly ratings and many of our most passionate discussions at TV Fanatic center around these broadcast favorites. 

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But with the decline of cable bundles, the future of broadcast TV is uncertain.

Could we see a world where live, weekly programming disappears entirely?

While many assume that broadcast TV will always be free over the air, it’s not quite that simple. 

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In many areas, digital antenna reception is spotty at best, making cable bundles the most reliable way to access traditional networks. 

Without those bundles, millions of viewers could lose access to their favorite broadcast shows unless they switch to streaming — if those shows are even available there.

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Meanwhile, cable networks like Hallmark have found ways to straddle both worlds, with hits like When Calls the Heart and The Way Home thriving on traditional TV while also gaining a foothold on Hallmark+. 

Streaming-exclusive shows, on the other hand, have a more unpredictable trajectory.

Some find massive audiences, while others get lost in the shuffle. 

Even here at TV Fanatic, we see a clear trend — broadcast and cable dramas still drive much of our readership, while streaming hits can be hit-or-miss when it comes to audience engagement.

So, where do you stand in all of this? 

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Are you clinging to your cable subscription for dear life?

Have you gone full streaming and never looked back?

Or do you fall somewhere in between, hoping the TV industry finds a way to keep the best of both worlds alive?

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We want to hear from you! Vote in our poll and let us know how your TV habits are shifting — or if they’re staying exactly the same. 

Your input helps us understand where the heart of TV fandom is heading, and we can’t wait to see where you land!

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