Omnibus (broadcast)

An omnibus broadcast, in the context of television or radio, refers to a single program that combines multiple episodes of a previously broadcast series, often edited together into a longer, more cohesive narrative. Essentially, it's a "catch-up" episode or special that allows viewers or listeners to experience a significant portion of a show's storyline in a condensed format.

Omnibus editions are typically aired between seasons of a popular show, during holiday periods, or as a promotional tool to attract new viewers. They can encompass several episodes from a single season, or even highlight key episodes from across multiple seasons. The selection of episodes is usually based on narrative importance, popularity, or thematic coherence.

The format can vary. Sometimes, the omnibus will present the episodes consecutively with minimal editing. In other cases, episodes might be heavily edited to remove extraneous scenes and streamline the plot, creating a faster-paced viewing experience. Voice-over narration might also be added to bridge gaps in the narrative or provide additional context.

The purpose of an omnibus broadcast is multifaceted. For existing fans, it offers a convenient way to revisit favorite episodes and refresh their memories of the storyline. For potential new viewers, it provides an accessible entry point to the series, allowing them to quickly become invested in the characters and plot without committing to watching every episode individually. Broadcasters also benefit from the increased viewership that an omnibus edition can attract, potentially boosting ratings and advertising revenue.

The use of the term "omnibus" in this context draws a parallel to the literary meaning of the word, referring to a collection of previously published works bound together in a single volume. Just as a literary omnibus compiles multiple books or stories, a broadcast omnibus compiles multiple episodes into a single program.