Even as a prolonged period of budget cuts, corporate mergers and C-suite reshuffles has cooled enthusiasm across the television industry and commissioning slumps persist, Banijay Entertainment’s head of scripted, Steve Matthews, is urging producers to be ambitious. With commissioning numbers down, Matthews says the market demands bold ideas and creative risk-taking — and that this moment could be fertile ground for standout projects. Industry pressures are real: streamers are consolidating, broadcasters are tightening spend and commissioning slates are leaner than in the boom years. That has forced producers to rethink business models, tighten production budgets and search for new revenue streams. But Matthews argues that scarcity can sharpen creativity. “I do think there is optimism at the moment,” he says, adding that now is the time for producers to double down on originality and distinctive storytelling. Practical strategies for producers - Focus on distinct voice and IP: In a crowded market, projects with a clear point of view or built-in intellectual property can cut through and attract commissioners and audiences. Originality and strong creator-driven projects are increasingly valuable. - Attach talent early: High-profile writers, showrunners or lead actors can give commissioners confidence and increase a project’s chances in a competitive landscape. - Pursue co-productions and international partners: Collaborations can spread financial risk, open new markets and make a project more commercially viable for global distribution. - Embrace lean, efficient production: Smart budgeting and streamlined production practices can preserve production values while fitting into tighter commissioning parameters. - Explore alternative formats and platforms: Limited series, anthology formats and digital-first experiments offer lower-cost ways to prove concepts and build audiences. Why now can work in producers’ favor Matthews points out that commissioners are still hungry for quality content that engages audiences. With fewer slots available, standout series have a better chance of long-term success — both critically and commercially. Projects that show clear audience appeal, international scalability or strong creative leadership are more likely to secure financing and distribution. Long-term thinking wins Beyond immediate commissioning cycles, Matthews encourages producers to adopt a long-term mindset: cultivate relationships with broadcasters and streamers, invest in writing and development, and be prepared to pivot formats or financing models. Producers who use this quieter commissioning environment to refine their ideas, build attachments and demonstrate market potential will be better positioned when demand rebounds. In short, while the commissioning slowdown poses real challenges, Banijay’s scripted chief says the current climate also presents opportunities. For TV producers willing to take calculated risks — to innovate in storytelling, partner internationally and streamline production — now may indeed be the best time to think big.