The media landscape is constantly evolving, and print publications are facing unprecedented challenges. In this context, it’s natural to wonder, “Does Tv Guide Still Print?” The answer is nuanced and reflects the changing habits of television viewers. While the traditional TV Guide as many remember it has adapted, the brand continues to exist in print form. Let’s delve into the story of TV Guide and its current presence in the market.
TV Guide Magazine, owned by NTVB Media, has indeed faced headwinds in the print industry. However, the brand has strategically evolved to cater to changing consumer preferences. One significant development was the launch of “TV Insider,” a new monthly magazine from the same team.
The image shows an old TV set displaying the Marvel logo, reflecting the shift in entertainment consumption towards streaming services like Disney+. The image’s alt text is: “Vintage television displaying the Marvel logo, symbolizing the transition from traditional TV to streaming entertainment options.”
The Rise of Streaming and the Need for Change
The decision to launch TV Insider stemmed from a growing demand for streaming content coverage among TV Guide Magazine readers. According to Michael Fell, group editorial director, reader surveys revealed a significant increase in viewers interested in streaming services. The challenge was that the space required for traditional channel listings within TV Guide Magazine limited their ability to expand streaming coverage.
The iconic “grids,” detailing daily channel listings, occupied a substantial portion of the magazine. In double issues, these grids could take up as many as 28 pages. An attempt to reduce the grid size in 2014 met with strong opposition from readers who still valued them.
TV Guide Magazine: A Print Legacy Endures
Despite the focus on streaming, TV Guide Magazine continues to be printed. While it’s not the top-circulated publication it once was, it still maintains a rate base of approximately 1 million readers and a total audience of 6 million. The median age of its readership is 58, suggesting a loyal audience who appreciate the traditional grid listings. The magazine publishes 24 issues a year, typically as double issues, with some triple issues during the summer.
This image is of the Greenlandic documentary ‘Walls – Akinni Inuk’, indicative of the diverse and global content now available through streaming platforms. The image’s alt text is: “A promotional image from ‘Walls – Akinni Inuk,’ a Greenlandic documentary, representing the breadth of international content on streaming services.”
TV Insider: A Streaming-Focused Companion
TV Insider serves as a complementary publication, catering specifically to viewers interested in streaming content. It deliberately omits the traditional grid listings, differentiating itself from TV Guide Magazine. The magazine features expanded coverage of programs on various streaming platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Disney+, Paramount+, Apple TV+, Peacock, HBO Max, and others. While the publication comes “from the editors of TV Guide Magazine”, it has a new logo and visual identity.
The first issue of TV Insider featured Kiefer Sutherland, star of Paramount+’s “Rabbit Hole,” on the cover, followed by Natasha Lyonne from Peacock’s “Poker Face” on the April issue. The inaugural issue was 74 pages long and included four pages dedicated to movies streaming on different services and a four-page alphabetized list of key streaming shows and where to watch them.
Navigating the Digital Landscape
The relationship between TV Guide Magazine and its online presence has been complex. The website, TVGuide.com, is owned by Fandom, separate from TV Guide Magazine. This division has created challenges for TV Guide Magazine in establishing a strong online presence. In 2015, TV Guide Magazine launched TVInsider.com to serve as its online home. The magazine also transitioned its social media sites from “TV Guide Magazine” to “TV Insider” to align with its online strategy.
The Future of TV Guide and TV Insider
Michael Fell emphasizes the continued value of the TV Guide brand, particularly among its loyal subscriber base. The company is exploring ways to leverage the brand while also focusing on the growth potential of TV Insider in the digital space. Subscription campaigns aim to attract a new audience interested in streaming guidance. The goal is to provide a comprehensive product that caters to both traditional TV viewers and streaming enthusiasts.
In conclusion, while the media landscape has shifted dramatically, TV Guide Magazine continues to print, serving a dedicated readership. TV Insider complements this by offering a streaming-focused alternative. So, while the answer to “Does TV Guide still print?” is yes, it’s important to understand the context of its evolution and the emergence of TV Insider as a key player in the world of television guidance.
