The WWE’s flagship show, SmackDown, made a triumphant return to its three-hour format on the USA Network last Friday. The extended runtime brought back a mix of excitement and nostalgia among fans, who were eagerly waiting to see their favorite superstars take the spotlight. However, according to sources close to the WWE, this new development may not be here to stay for long.
A Brief History of SmackDown’s Runtime
The three-hour format of SmackDown has been a staple of the show since its inception in 1999. It was initially broadcast on UPN and later moved to The CW, where it continued to thrive. However, in 2010, the show was reduced to a two-hour format due to a change in the network’s programming strategies. The decision was met with criticism from fans and wrestlers alike, who felt that the reduced runtime did not do justice to the show’s rich history and the talents of its performers.
The Temporary Return
After months of speculation, the WWE made the surprise announcement that SmackDown would be returning to its three-hour format. The move was seen as a bold decision by the company, which has been experimenting with new formats and programming strategies in recent years. According to a WWE insider, the decision to bring back the three-hour format was made to accommodate the show’s growing popularity and the increasing demand for content.
“The WWE has been monitoring the ratings and feedback from fans, and we felt that it was time to bring back the three-hour format,” said the insider. “It’s a way of giving our fans more of what they want, which is a more comprehensive and engaging viewing experience.”
A Temporary Measure?
While the return of the three-hour format has been met with excitement, sources close to the WWE are suggesting that it may not be a permanent fixture. According to reports, the company is still exploring options for a more streamlined format that can accommodate the ever-changing media landscape.
“The three-hour format is a temporary measure to see how the show performs and to gauge the feedback from fans,” said a source close to the WWE. “We’re looking at different options, including a two-hour format with more concise matches and a greater emphasis on storytelling.”
The Impact on WWE Storylines
The return of the three-hour format has already had a significant impact on WWE storylines. With more time to develop matches and storylines, the show has been able to showcase its wrestlers in a more prominent light. However, some fans are concerned that the extended runtime may lead to a decrease in production quality and a less focused narrative.
“The three-hour format has given us more time to develop our storylines and matches, but it’s also made the show feel a bit disjointed at times,” said a WWE source. “We’re working hard to ensure that the show stays focused and engaging, even with the added runtime.”
Conclusion
The return of SmackDown’s three-hour format has been a welcome development for fans, but it may not be here to stay for long. According to sources close to the WWE, the company is still exploring options for a more streamlined format that can accommodate the ever-changing media landscape. While the decision to bring back the three-hour format may have been met with excitement, it’s clear that the WWE is committed to finding a format that works for both the company and its fans.
As the WWE continues to navigate the ever-changing world of professional wrestling, one thing is certain: the company will always be looking for new and innovative ways to engage its audience. Whether it’s a three-hour format or a more streamlined approach, the WWE is committed to delivering the best possible product to its fans.