Study Reveals Over 90% of Series Streaming in 2024 by White Creators

A study by UCLA revealed that in 2024, over 90% of the top 250 scripted streaming series were created by white individuals. This number represented a significant increase from the previous year. Additionally, white male creators accounted for nearly 80% of the total. The lack of diversity extended to the on-screen talent as well, with almost 80% of the leading roles in the most-watched comedies and dramas being played by white actors.

Women and people of color faced limited opportunities both on and off-screen. Only 22% of the top series were created by female creators, and BIPOC creatives made up just 8.3% of all creators and co-creators. Women also saw a decline in lead roles in 2024, with women of color being especially underrepresented, making up only 8.3% of lead roles.

The study examined the top 250 streaming TV series of 2024, including both current and library titles, based on Nielsen total minutes viewed. Major streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu were included in the analysis. Despite the lack of representation, women and people of color were found to drive up the rankings of current television programming, indicating a demand for more diverse stories.

Audiences showed a preference for new content and underrepresented storylines, with shows like “Bridgerton” and “House of the Dragon” receiving high levels of social media engagement. The study emphasized the importance of investing in creators from underrepresented communities to produce relatable yet original stories. People with disabilities remained underrepresented in lead roles, comprising only 14.4% of characters with disabilities.

By prioritizing diverse storytelling and representation, the industry can engage with a broader audience and be part of important conversations online. The dependence on outdated storylines may limit Hollywood’s ability to create compelling content that resonates with diverse viewers. The study called for increased investment in underrepresented communities to foster a more inclusive and representative entertainment landscape.