As an alternative to watching TV all the time, using streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and others has grown in popularity. These services, also called OTT (Over-The-Top) platforms, let us watch whatever we want, whenever we want.
With this significant shift in entertainment, there’s been a surprising new trend: more and more kids are being cast in web series and shows on these platforms. Kids are now getting essential roles in many popular shows, and this demand is only growing. Let’s take a closer look at why this is happening, what types of roles kids play, and how this might shape the future of entertainment.
Over-the-top (OTT) platforms allow you to view TV episodes and movies online without a cable connection. These services allow users to view TV shows and movies on desktop computers, smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.
Web series are internet-based TV programming. Unlike regular TV shows, web series can be shorter, and they usually have more freedom regarding the types of stories they tell. Many web series are aimed at young audiences, which is one reason why there’s a growing demand for child actors.
There are several reasons why we are seeing more kids in web series and OTT shows:
In the past, most shows had adults as the main characters, and kids were often just side characters. OTT platforms are changing this by creating more shows where kids are the stars. This means that stories about kids and their experiences are becoming more popular.
For example, some web series focus on adventures kids go on with their friends, while others explore what it’s like to grow up and deal with family or school problems. These stories relate to younger viewers and allow child actors to play important roles.
The number of young people watching television on OTT platforms is growing. This means that streaming services need content that interests these viewers. By casting kids in leading roles, these platforms can make shows that appeal to younger audiences, like tweens and teenagers.
Shows like Stranger Things on Netflix became hugely popular because they focus on a group of kids who are the story’s heroes. Young audiences enjoy watching characters their age doing exciting things, encouraging streaming platforms to create more shows like this.
OTT platforms know that families often watch shows together. This is one reason they create shows that parents and kids can enjoy. Family-friendly shows attract more viewers, especially those where children play the main characters.
For example, shows like Alexa & Katie and The Healing Powers of Dude feature young actors and focus on themes that appeal to a wide audience. This kind of content is great for family viewing, which increases its popularity.
One cool thing about OTT platforms is that they can reach audiences worldwide. This means people in many countries can watch a web series made in one country. Since kids are a big part of these global audiences, the demand for child actors who can star in shows that connect with viewers everywhere is increasing.
Shows like The Babysitter’s Club and Diary of a Future President are good examples of series that feature child actors and have fans from many different countries.
Now that we know why there’s a growing demand for kids in web series let’s look at the types of roles child actors play in these shows.
One of the most popular types of shows featuring kids is coming-of-age stories. These are shows that focus on growing up and the challenges kids face as they age. These stories can be about making new friends, dealing with family problems, or discovering who they are.
For example, a teenager navigates high school, friendships, and family drama in the show Never Have I Ever. These shows are popular because many viewers can relate to the experiences of growing up.
In the world of OTT platforms, there are many fantasy and adventure shows where kids are the heroes. These shows are full of action and excitement, allowing child actors to play brave and adventurous characters.
A good example is the show Stranger Things, where a group of kids fights against monsters and uncovers secrets. These shows let kids be the stars of amazing adventures.
OTT platforms also have many comedy shows where kids are the main characters. These shows are lighthearted and fun, often focusing on the daily silly or funny things kids experience.
For example, the children in the family in the television series The Thundermans struggle to reconcile their heroic lives with their everyday ones, which sometimes results in humorous incidents between their superheroes and everyday lives. Kids love watching these kinds of shows because they are fun and relatable.
OTT platforms aren’t just about fun and games. There are also shows where child actors play severe roles and deal with real-life issues like bullying, mental health, or illness. These shows help raise awareness about important topics and allow child actors to show their range in dramatic roles.
What Does This Mean for the Future?
With more kids being cast in web series and OTT shows, the future looks bright for child actors in the entertainment industry. Here are some explanations for the significance of this trend:
As OTT platforms keep growing, kids will have more opportunities to break into acting. Child actors now have the chance to play leading roles in web series, giving them valuable experience and exposure. With the high demand for kids in these shows, there are many new ways for young actors to showcase their talent.
For many child actors, starting in web series or OTT content can lead to more prominent roles in TV shows and movies. Being part of a successful series can open the door to more acting opportunities in the future. Some child actors who became famous in OTT shows have even gone on to have long careers in the entertainment industry.
OTT platforms are known for being more inclusive, meaning kids from all backgrounds get more opportunities to be part of shows. A more significant focus is on telling stories representing different cultures, abilities, and lifestyles, helping the entertainment industry become more diverse.
By casting children from different backgrounds, OTT platforms ensure everyone feels seen and represented on screen.
The demand for kids in web series and OTT platforms is rapidly growing, and the entertainment industry is changing. Child actors are central to many popular shows, whether it’s adventurous stories, coming-of-age dramas, or laugh-out-loud comedies.
This shift is giving kids the chance to shine in leading roles and creating exciting new opportunities for young viewers to see themselves in the characters they watch. With the rise of OTT platforms, child actors are no longer just supporting characters but becoming the story’s stars. As the demand for kids in web series continues to grow, we can expect to see even more young talent leading the charge in the future of entertainment.
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