Introduction
Stranger Things, the Netflix original sci-fi series that premiered in 2016, captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with its nostalgic 80s feel and gripping storyline. Since its debut, it has become a cultural phenomenon and has significantly impacted the entertainment industry. In this article, we will delve into the financial aspects of Stranger Things, including its massive earnings, business strategies, impact on Netflix, inner workings, and future projections.
Stranger Things: A Guide to Its Massive Earnings
Stranger Things has earned a colossal amount of money since its inception. According to Netflix’s 2020 fourth-quarter shareholder letter, the show has grossed over $1 billion in merchandise sales alone. This revenue includes Stranger Things-branded t-shirts, toys, action figures, posters, and other promotional materials. The show also generates substantial profits from its streaming views, with Deadline reporting that it raked in USD 40 million in ad revenue in its third season.
The series has been consistent in growth, as its first season garnered a reported $18.2 million, while the second season brought in around $20.2 million. The third and most recent season reportedly drew in a massive $26.7 million, marking its most successful season to date.
The Business of Stranger Things
The producers of Stranger Things have made numerous strategic moves to capitalize on its success, including partnerships with various brands. For example, in 2019, Nike partnered with the show’s creators to release a line of sneakers inspired by the series. Coca-Cola also released limited-edition products, including New Coke, Pop-Up Bar, and Polar Bears Limited Edition Coke cans, with designs inspired by the show. Such collaborations enhance the brand image of Stranger Things, which contributes substantially to its revenue.
Moreover, the creators of Stranger Things have consistently ventured into new businesses to work towards their financial goals. In 2020, the Duffer Brothers (the show’s co-creators) signed a multi-year overall deal with Netflix, which will produce movies and series projects exclusively for Netflix. They have also reportedly signed agreements with Random House Books and Penguin Random House to produce and distribute original content under their publishing labels, each of which is expected to generate substantial royalties for the team.
A Record Breaker – How Stranger Things Shook Netflix’s Financial World
Stranger Things has broken records on Netflix, with each season becoming more popular than the last. According to a Netflix earnings report, Stranger Things Season Three alone amassed over 64 million views within the first four weeks of its release, breaking all previous Netflix viewership records. This staggering number of views was equivalent to over 40% of households subscribed to Netflix and was seen as a groundbreaking milestone for the franchise.
The success of Stranger Things has impacted the entertainment industry as a whole, causing a shift in the way streaming services approach programming and revenue opportunities, with showrunners taking more control over their product’s financial aspects. The show’s monetary success has also paved the way for smaller streaming services and independent studios to have profitable and culturally impactful franchises.
Behind the Scenes of Stranger Things: The Dollars and Cents of a Mega Hit
The producers of Stranger Things are careful with their financial planning, indicating that they recognize the critical role of budgeting in the success of the show. According to Deadline, the show’s budget has grown consistently per season, with the first costing around USD 6 million, the second USD 8 million, and the third USD 15 million.
Moreover, the producers’ budgets are allocated carefully depending on production requirements, with the earlier seasons containing fewer special effects and a simpler soundtrack, while the later seasons have made more extensive use of these elements. Therefore, since the third season was more high-tech than the previous seasons, the budget rose accordingly.
The Future of Stranger Things: Predictions and Projections
Given Stranger Things’ massive success and popularity, it seems unlikely that the show will be canceled anytime soon. According to reports, the Duffer Brothers have plans to end the show after a fourth or fifth season. Still, they plan to develop other projects under Netflix’s exclusive partnership deal.
However, since the viewership of Stranger Things is highly dependent on the nostalgia factor that surrounds it, it will be essential for the showrunners to keep the series fresh and exciting to retain the audience’s loyalty. Besides, given Stranger Things’ lucrative earning potential, it’s possible that Netflix may attempt to stretch the series for as long as possible.
Conclusion
Stranger Things’ remarkable financial success has helped change the entertainment industry in fundamental ways, and its popularity and status as a pop-culture phenomenon show no signs of stopping anytime soon. The showrunners of Stranger Things have built an intelligent financial strategy, with various ventures and partnerships contributing substantially to their revenue. While the series will eventually come to an end, it is poised to have a long-lasting impact on pop culture and the entertainment industry as a whole.
