AMC Networks (AMCX 3.42%) now has "aftershows" tied to its two most popular dramas, Breaking Bad and The Walking Dead. It's an old strategy that may be paying off at a level network TV executives might find distressing, says Fool contributor Tim Beyers in the following video.
We've seen aftershows since the heyday of MTV. More recently, Discovery Communications (DISCK) found a ratings winner in the aftershow, Shark After Dark.
The show, and AMC's comparables -- Talking Bad and Talking Dead -- have become important for engaging those on social media who've just watched live, and who therefore might be willing to keep watching live, Tim says.
Having this sort of live audience can be a boon for ad rates. Look at Breaking Bad. A recent report in The New York Times says the show is commanding network TV ad rates, which can range from $200,000 or more for a 30-second spot.
Should we expect a broader narrowing of the gulf between network and cable-TV ad rates? Which stocks stand to benefit if so? Tim addresses these questions in the video, so please watch for more.
