The new format

The rise of the limited series has quietly transformed television. Once considered a niche format, these self-contained productions have become some of the most talked-about shows on screen. At a time when we are overwhelmed by choice, limited series offer something particularly valuable: a complete story told without the commitment of multiple seasons.

Few stars have embraced the format more successfully than Nicole Kidman. Over the past decade, she has built an impressive television portfolio with projects including “Big Little Lies,” “The Undoing,” “Expats” and “The Perfect Couple.” Other actors have followed suit, recognising that limited series provide the opportunity to tackle complex characters while working with top writers and directors. The result is television that often rivals film in both quality and ambition.

The format has also produced some of the biggest cultural moments of recent years. “The Queen’s Gambit” turned a story about competitive chess into a global phenomenon and made Anya Taylor-Joy a household name. Meanwhile, “Normal People” captivated audiences through the chemistry between Daisy Edgar-Jones and Paul Mescal, proving that emotional honesty can be just as compelling as drama. These shows succeeded because they focused on strong storytelling rather than relying on endless seasons.

Streaming platforms have helped fuel the trend, giving creators the freedom to tell complete stories without stretching them beyond their natural conclusion. Series such as “Mare of Easttown,” “Monsters” and “Disclaimer” demonstrate the strength of the format, combining big-name talent with focused storytelling. In an age of endless content, viewers increasingly seem to prefer quality over quantity.