NBC's Fast-Paced 'Gold Zone' Spurs Speedy Views of Sports, Maybe More

Variety

by Brian Steinberg

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

NBC’s ‘Gold Zone’ is a fast-paced, short-form sports show that switches focus between multiple events in real-time, capturing key moments across various sports like hockey, skiing, and curling. Inspired by the NFL’s Red Zone concept, this format allows viewers to engage with multiple sports simultaneously, offering quick highlights and pivotal plays. The show’s producers use a grid of video feeds, shifting emphasis based on breaking developments or viewer interest. This approach has proven successful, especially during major events like the 2024 Paris Olympics, where it gained significant popularity on Peacock. The origins of Gold Zone trace back to NBC’s 2012 London Olympics coverage, initially available as a digital feature with limited reach. The streaming era transformed its trajectory, leading to its revival and expansion during the Paris Games. Producers like Amy Rosenfeld highlight the show’s dynamic nature, handling up to nine simultaneous events, with plans for even more in future editions. This format has also sparked interest beyond sports, with potential applications in election coverage or debates, as suggested by hosts and industry experts. The success of Gold Zone underscores NBC’s innovation in catering to modern audiences with shorter attention spans. By adapting the Red Zone concept for multi-sport events, it offers a model for engaging digitally savvy viewers who seek quick, impactful content. This shift reflects broader trends in media consumption, where streaming platforms enable seamless multitasking and instant access to key moments across various narratives. As demonstrated by Gold Zone’s rise, this approach not only enhances viewer experiences but also positions NBC at the forefront of adapting traditional TV formats for the digital age.

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Originally published on Variety on 2/19/2026