‘Longmire’ season 5: Netflix exec explains show’s value

Today marks the Netflix presentation at the TCA Winter Press Tour, and while there wasn’t too much said about “Longmire” giving the timing of the event (filming for the fifth season has not even started yet), there were at least a couple of interesting statements made by the streaming service’s head Ted Sarandos.

1. Netflix values it as a tool to attract older viewers – We suspected back when the show was picked up for season 4 that this was one of the main reasons why they chose to do so, and Sarandos all but confirmed it, saying effectively that this is a demographic that the service wants. They don’t care about demos; instead, they want to provide incentives for viewers who have never tried Netflix before to have an interest in picking it up and giving it a go.

2. The ratings are not entirely clear for season 4 (they don’t publicly disclose this data), but given the previous audience of the show on A&E they are “very pleased” with the results. (You can see the full tweet below via TV Guide.)

One of the great things about Netflix as a whole is that they have such a great amount of data at their fingertips, and this affords them the luxury of being able to make many decisions long in advance and prepare for a show’s conclusion. For example: We have an easy time imagining that whenever “Longmire” does end, they will be able to possess the foresight in order to give the showrunners time to cultivate a proper ending.

We’ll presumably have more news on the show in the months ahead; for now, head over here for some other “Longmire” updates! Also, you can sign up over at this link to get some additional TV news on everything we cover, sent right over to you via our CarterMatt Newsletter. (Photo: Netflix.)