Audience Quote by Ed Asner
![“[on making the transition from the comedy "Mary Tyler Moore" (1970) to its dramatic spin-off series "Lou Grant" (1977)] We were really worried about changing over from a three-camera, half-hour comedy to a one-camera, full-hour drama. The audience wasn't ready for the switch - even CBS billed us…” quote by Ed Asner](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a85/ed-asner-14022_audience_on-making-the-transition-from-the-comedy_2909465.jpg)
“[on making the transition from the comedy "Mary Tyler Moore" (1970) to its dramatic spin-off series "Lou Grant" (1977)] We were really worried about changing over from a three-camera, half-hour comedy to a one-camera, full-hour drama. The audience wasn't ready for the switch - even CBS billed us in their promos as a comedy. In fact, the whole thing was impossible. But we didn't know that.”
About This Quote
Source Television: Behind‑the‑scenes interview, 1978
Transitioning formats requires audience re‑education and clear branding.
In simple terms: Changing genres needs clear communication.
Key Takeaway
Prepare audience before major shifts.
Themes
change management
media
audience perception
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
industry
strategy
When to use this quote
- TV pilots
- network promos
- viewer surveys
Key Concepts
branding
format adaptation
Questions to Reflect On
- What steps can ease a format change?
- How to signal new direction effectively?
A Different Perspective
Risk of alienating existing fans.
