Seinfeld as a Serial Program

In television formatting, there are typically three types of shows: series, serial, and episodic programs. A series is a show which advances over time, and creates long term story lines and characters. Oppositely, shows which are episodic provide little character arc and typically end, allowing viewers to watch one episode and be done. The combination of these two formats can be found in a serial program. Serials function mostly as episodic programs, but use some crossover to create recurring jokes or story lines.

Seinfeld is an example of a serial program. While one can certainly sit down and view one episode without knowing any background information, a long-term viewer will begin to see jokes that carry through the shows longevity. Some examples of this carry over can be found in the relationship between Jerry and Elaine and can also be seen in the fantasy career of George Costanza as an architect. A further example can be seen with the creation of Jerry's sitcom pilot, which is often referenced throughout all of the show's seasons. Although viewers certainly do not need to know of some of these inside jokes within the show, the plot lines help to create more complex and humorous stories. Seinfeld works as a serial program because it involves aspects from both an episodic program and a series.