Apple TV+ aims to cut costs on new projects, as The Morning Show season four allocates $50 million for cast
Apple is making strategic shifts in its approach to content spending for Apple TV+, according to a recent report from Bloomberg. The tech giant is aiming to dispel the notion that it will outspend competitors just because of its financial resources.
Unlike the previous frenzy in the streaming industry, Apple, like other streaming services, is now more selective in greenlighting projects and closely monitoring show budgets. However, Apple is still willing to invest in high-profile projects and secure deals with renowned actors. For instance, salaries for the cast of The Morning Show season four are expected to surpass $50 million, with stars Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon reportedly earning over $2 million per episode each.
Production on season three of Foundation faced delays due to industry strikes, leading to budget overruns. Apple responded by making script adjustments to align with the planned budget, showcasing a newfound fiscal discipline in its content production.
The success of Severance, a hit series for Apple, has led to challenges in producing season two. Scheduling conflicts and script revisions have pushed costs to over $20 million per episode. Despite this, Apple is set to release season two in January 2025, with a focus on cost containment for future seasons.
While Apple remains committed to its Hollywood venture, the true success metrics of Apple TV+ are still unclear. Recent renewals of shows like Presumed Innocent and Loot demonstrate Apple’s ongoing investment in original content. Additionally, Apple is exploring new strategies, such as allocating more budget towards licensing films from other studios to bolster its original content catalog.
Apple’s evolving approach to content spending reflects a balancing act between investing in high-quality productions and managing costs effectively. As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, Apple’s strategic shifts in content production will be crucial in shaping the future of Apple TV+ and its competitiveness in the market.
