Heroes May Have Fewer Eps Next Season

The networks are deciding less is more when it comes to popular shows such as 24 and Lost, opting to film fewer episodes than previous years. Advertising Age said NBC will follow suit, likely cutting the number of Heroes episodes down to 18-20 after doing 25 this season.

Those episodes are also expected to run closer together to minimize storyline interruptions. That’s probably a good move with shows as plot-twisty as genre shows tend to be.

It’s no coincidence the move comes as Heroes continues to struggle in the ratings. Cable networks pioneered the smaller episode count and it does help with creating buzz. As a fan of The Sopranos, it often seemed they were off the air again as soon as they got back.

But the shows do still have to be good. Tighter plotlines and higher stakes may be a good idea for a show that’s meandered a bit through the last two seasons. What’s your take, readers?

NBC Photo: Trae Patton