Netflix has recently disclosed viewership data for over 18,000 titles in its extensive catalog, covering the period from January to June of 2023. This move is part of a new initiative called “What We Watched,” a semi-annual report aiming to provide a more comprehensive overview of viewership trends on the platform. Notably, this departure from Netflix’s traditionally guarded approach to data transparency comes amidst increased pressure from Hollywood writers’ and actors’ unions, who raised concerns during strikes this year.
The report, which Netflix plans to release every six months, sheds light on the performance of a wide array of titles beyond the usual Top 10 lists. Interestingly, Netflix notes a significant overlap, with 60% of the titles in the study having previously appeared in the Top 10 lists. This initiative follows Netflix’s earlier steps toward transparency, such as the publication of weekly Top-10 lists starting in 2021 and participation in Nielsen’s weekly snapshots.
During a 30-minute media conference call, Co-CEO Ted Sarandos reflected on Netflix’s evolution in the streaming landscape over the past decade and a half. He acknowledged the criticism the company faced for operating in secrecy and emphasized that the lack of transparent engagement data had led to mistrust with producers, creators, and the media. Sarandos sees the effort to share more comprehensive numbers as part of a broader trend towards transparency in the streaming industry as it becomes increasingly mainstream, aligning more closely with other media sectors that readily provide accessible information about content performance.
