Why are some TV show called "Soap Opera"?

Answer 1

"The term "soap opera" originated from the fact that when these serial dramas were aired on daytime radio, the commercials aired during the shows were largely aimed at housewives. Many of the products sold during these commercials were laundry and cleaning items, and included a jingle praising the product. This specific type of radio drama came to be associated with these particular commercials, and this gave rise to the term "soap opera" — a melodramatic story that aired commercials for soap products. Though soap operas are still sponsored by companies such as Procter & Gamble, the diverse demographic groups that soap operas attract have caused other advertisements for such things as acne medication and birth control, appealing to a much younger audience."

From "Soap Opera" entry at wikipedia.org

Answer 2

A 'soap opera' is an hour-long program on tv in the afternoon. When these melodramas were first popularized, they were geared towards the housewife. The show's major commercial backing were soap/laundry companies who wanted to capitalize on the 'house-wife' quotient and would 'present' the programs with extra commercial attention paid to their product.

While they remain soap operas and are just as melodramatic as ever, the "Calgon presents: Like sands through the hourglass..." has been shortened to just the show's introduction.

I just wish I could say that we are no longer the product-triggered consumers we once were - but I fear the opposite is true.

Answer 3

I believe it started in early TV and even back to radio history, when all shows had some sort of corporate sponsor (and most still do.) The primary sponsors of the "soap operas" were soap manufacturers, since it was likely the housewives who were at home watching/listening.

Answer 4

In the beginning....there was radio. The radio shows would be sponsered by a large company, Proctor&Gamble, Palmolive..etc.
The shows would tell dramatic stories about ordinary people doing extrodinary things(hence the term opera) Since these shows were on during the daytime and all men were at work....housewives were the main listeners...what did housewives do???...cook and CLEAN...so most of the advertising was for dish detergent, laundry detergent, hand soap..........get it?

Answer 5

Because Soap Opera's are played a new episode everyday.. or about 5 days a week. And it just continues from that very moment every day. They just never get old or anything, and you really have to watch it every single day to get into it. It's all drama, and just everything.... wierd!

Answer 6

Years ago, when these serials were started, they were usually sponsored by detergents...Tide, Cheer, etc. That's how they became known as "Soap Operas."

Answer 7

Because they are being watched by women who should be doing the laundry

Answer 8

All the character's lives are constantly in a lather.

Answer 9

Tv Show Called Soap

Answer 10

so you can sit and get involved in their lives
and not do anything all day