Television Spoilers Recast as Narrative Teasers
Document Type
Article - Merrimack Access Only
Publication Title
Qualitative Research Reports in Communication
Publisher
Eastern Communication Association
Publication Date
12-2017
Abstract/ Summary
This article analyzes online qualitative survey responses from 43 television time shifters who knew narrative content (spoilers) about a particular show before they decided to watch. Twenty of the study participants cited narrative content and/or their spoiler sources as the reason they chose to watch. We ultimately argue that television spoilers can function as teasers, leading would-be viewers to enjoyable shows. In doing so, we expand the definition of spoiler, offering insight into how spoilers can create rather than ruin opportunities for narrative pleasure.
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