It’s no secret that the COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed the way we live our lives. From working from home to social distancing, the way we interact with the world around us has been completely transformed. One area that has seen a particularly profound shift is the way we consume entertainment. With movie theaters closed and live events canceled, streaming services have become more popular than ever before.
Prior to the pandemic, streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime were already on the rise, but their popularity has skyrocketed in the past year. With more time spent at home and fewer options for entertainment outside the house, many people have turned to streaming as a way to pass the time and stay entertained. In fact, a recent study found that 85% of U.S. households now subscribe to at least one streaming service, compared to just 59% in 2019.
One of the biggest ways that the pandemic has changed our viewing habits is the way we watch new releases. With movie theaters closed and many studios delaying the release of their films, streaming services have become the go-to for premieres. For example, Disney+ released its highly anticipated film “Mulan” directly to the streaming platform for an additional fee, rather than waiting for theaters to reopen. This shift has not only changed the way we watch movies, but also the way studios release them.
In addition to new releases, the pandemic has also changed the way we watch television. With production on many shows halted and the traditional fall TV lineup upended, streaming services have filled the void with a plethora of new content. Shows like “Tiger King” and “The Queen’s Gambit” became instant hits, providing viewers with much-needed escapism during a difficult time. Many people have also taken this opportunity to revisit old favorites or discover hidden gems on streaming platforms.
Another way that the pandemic has changed our viewing habits is the rise of virtual events and watch parties. With concerts, sporting events, and movie premieres canceled or postponed, many people have turned to virtual events as a way to connect with others and share experiences. Platforms like Netflix Party and Zoom have made it easy to watch movies and shows with friends and family, even if you can’t be in the same room.
Streaming services have also become a lifeline for families during the pandemic. With schools closed and parents working from home, many families have relied on streaming platforms to keep their children entertained and engaged. Services like Disney+ and PBS Kids have provided a wealth of educational content for kids of all ages, helping parents navigate the challenges of remote learning and childcare.
Of course, it’s not just families who have turned to streaming services during the pandemic. Many individuals have used this time to catch up on shows and movies they may have missed, or to explore new genres and platforms. From binge-watching entire series to discovering hidden gems, streaming has allowed people to escape reality and immerse themselves in the world of entertainment.
As the pandemic continues to impact our daily lives, it’s clear that streaming will remain a vital part of how we consume entertainment. With new releases, virtual events, and a plethora of content to choose from, streaming services have become more important than ever before. Whether you’re looking for a way to escape reality, connect with others, or simply pass the time, streaming has something for everyone.
In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we view entertainment in more ways than one. From the rise of streaming services to the shift in how we watch new releases, our viewing habits have been forever altered by the events of the past year. As we continue to navigate this new normal, streaming will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of how we consume media and connect with others.
