What's Happening?
Fox has announced the renewal of its workplace comedy 'Animal Control' for a fifth season. The show, starring Joel McHale, has gained significant traction, particularly after its fourth season achieved high viewership ratings, partly due to an NFL-assisted
boost. The series, which follows a group of animal control officers adept with animals but less so with humans, has also seen success on streaming platforms. Current episodes are available on Hulu, while past seasons have been streamed on Netflix, amassing nearly a billion minutes of viewing time. The decision to renew was described as straightforward by Fox Television Network president Michael Thorn, citing the show's creative growth and strong audience response.
Why It's Important?
The renewal of 'Animal Control' underscores the growing importance of streaming platforms in determining the success and longevity of television series. With the show's past seasons performing well on Netflix, it highlights how streaming can significantly expand a show's audience beyond traditional broadcast metrics. This trend reflects a broader shift in the television industry, where streaming viewership is increasingly influencing network decisions. For Fox, this renewal not only strengthens its lineup for the 2026-27 season but also demonstrates the network's commitment to investing in content that resonates with both traditional and streaming audiences.
What's Next?
As 'Animal Control' prepares for its fifth season, the show's production team, led by executive producers Bob Fisher, Rob Greenberg, Dan Sterling, Tad Quill, and Joel McHale, will likely focus on maintaining the creative momentum that has contributed to its success. The network may also explore additional promotional strategies to capitalize on the show's streaming popularity. Furthermore, the renewal could encourage Fox to consider similar strategies for other shows, potentially leading to more cross-platform content distribution and marketing efforts.
