The Young And The Restless: Do “Previously On Y&R” Segments Enhance Viewer’s Experience?

Soaps fans know that ‘The Young and the Restless’ now begins with a recap of scenes that serve to introduce that day’s episode, rather than starting with the first, fresh scene. Teasers for the next show have been shifted to the show’s social media feeds. So, have these changes improved fan’s experience and ability to promote the show they’re invested in?

Bumper is actually a radio term that is being loosely borrowed for this feature. In the manner it’s being used here, think of bumpers at the front and end of a vehicle.

Related: The Young and the Restless Poll: Was J.T.’s Death Self-Defense, Murder or Accidental? VOTE!

Y&R’s audience, like the other broadcast network soaps and other forms of serialized entertainment content, is mostly comprised of devoted viewers. That majority contingent is very familiar with each show’s history. So the recaps seen at the beginning of each day’s episode represent memory refreshers for this segment of fans. But all businesses, including network’s daytime dramas, are aware that newer customers (in this instance, viewers) need to gain knowledge of their product(s) in order to increase the potential that they too will become loyal. There are various ways to pursue that goal.

Genoa City’s newer observers wouldn’t know the history of J.T. (Thad Luckinbill) and Victoria (Amelia Heinle). So a recent introduction that reviewed ‘J.T.V.’s’ backstory provided needed knowledge that allowed the scenes that followed to be digested in context.

Teasers have long been used to pique interest in the next day’s episode. While a useful strategy for newer fans, the inclusion of brief clips surely didn’t motivate many devoted viewers to tune in tomorrow (or Monday) because they already were planning to do so, had their Digital Video Recorders set, or routinely stream each Y&R show.

The choice to shift teasers to the internet appears wise. Doing so encourages all fans to visit Y&R’s social media feeds. Upon arrival it’s likely that these motivated consumers will spend time reviewing content that goes beyond the next-day’s teaser. Plus, they may, or will, promote the show to those they are connected to.

Fans don’t feel they are being used to basically advertise a business without being paid to do so. Instead, the open agreement allows receipt of content, some of which is exclusive, in exchange for word-of-mouth advertising efforts that hopefully furthers a business they like and want to remain alive.

Fans of ‘The Young and the Restless’ rightfully express their opinions on a regular basis. So, have Bumper Changes Improved Fan’s Experience? Please vote in our poll below!

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