Thu Sep 26 14:00:17 UTC 2024: ## Dad TV Evolves: From Procedural to Neo-Dad and Beyond
The traditional image of “Dad TV” – shows featuring male protagonists solving problems with competence and a belief in societal institutions – is undergoing a transformation. While shows like *NCIS* and *The West Wing* still resonate with audiences, the definition of Dad TV has broadened to encompass diverse perspectives and narratives.
Nielsen data reveals that popular shows like *Bad Monkey* and *Shrinking* attract a near-equal split of male and female viewers, highlighting a shift in audience demographics. Streaming platforms have further fueled this evolution, with shows like *Reacher* and *Tokyo Vice* showcasing a wider range of protagonists and narratives.
This has led to the emergence of “Neo-Dad” shows, where competence and a belief in societal order are still present, but the protagonists are no longer confined to traditional masculine roles. Shows like *Julia*, which chronicles the journey of Julia Child, and *For All Mankind*, which reimagines the space race with a female perspective, are prime examples of this evolution.
Apple TV+, in particular, has become a hub for Neo-Dad shows, offering diverse narratives that celebrate competence, female leadership, and nuanced explorations of masculinity. Shows like *Slow Horses*, *Sugar*, and *Presumed Innocent* challenge traditional assumptions about heroism and strength, while shows like *Silo* and *Foundation* explore complex societal structures through the lens of strong female characters.
However, the landscape also features “Aggrieved Dad TV,” characterized by a sense of disillusionment and a longing for the past, exemplified by shows like *Yellowstone* and *Last Man Standing*. These shows depict protagonists who feel betrayed by the world and struggle with a sense of loss.
While the two versions of Dad TV represent different perspectives, both stem from a desire for order, competence, and a sense of control in an ever-changing world. The popularity of both formats underlines the enduring appeal of narratives that offer a sense of optimism and hope, even amidst cynicism and uncertainty.
The evolution of Dad TV reflects a broader societal shift towards inclusivity and a more nuanced understanding of masculinity. As streaming platforms continue to push boundaries, it will be interesting to see how the genre further evolves in the coming years.
First Piper 