Meaning: This quote by Jonathan Frakes, an actor known for his role as Commander William Riker in the television series "Star Trek: The Next Generation," reflects his experience transitioning from working on daily soap operas to a weekly show. Frakes highlights the differences in the amount of time and coverage involved in producing a weekly show compared to the daily grind of soap opera production. His perspective offers insights into the contrasting dynamics of these two formats within the television industry.

Frakes' mention of "much more time" in the context of a weekly show likely refers to the longer production schedule associated with such programs. Unlike daily soap operas, which typically require rapid turnover of episodes to maintain a consistent airing schedule, a weekly show allows for more time for planning, scripting, filming, and editing each episode. This extended timeframe can provide the creative team with opportunities to craft more intricate storylines, develop characters in greater depth, and refine the overall production quality.

Additionally, Frakes points out the "much more coverage" that comes with working on a weekly show. This likely alludes to the broader scope and depth of storytelling that can be achieved when episodes are spaced out over a longer time frame. Weekly shows often have the luxury of exploring multiple plotlines, delving into character arcs, and incorporating thematic elements with more nuance and complexity than the episodic nature of daily soap operas allows. The increased coverage in a weekly format may also extend to the variety of locations, sets, and visual aesthetics that can be utilized to enrich the overall viewing experience.

Frakes' reflection on his previous experience with soap operas as "preparation" for his current work emphasizes the valuable skills and insights he gained from the fast-paced, daily production environment. The rigorous demands of churning out a show every day likely honed his ability to adapt quickly, collaborate efficiently with colleagues, and deliver consistent performances. These foundational experiences in the soap opera realm may have equipped Frakes with a strong work ethic and a keen understanding of the importance of meeting tight deadlines, skills that could serve him well in his current endeavors.

The comparison Frakes draws between the time spent and the airtime achieved in the two formats sheds light on the efficiency and resourcefulness required in television production. Despite the substantial time investment in preparing a weekly show, the ultimate goal is to maximize the impact of the content within the limited airtime available. This contrast underscores the strategic approach and meticulous planning that go into optimizing the storytelling and visual presentation of each episode, ensuring that the audience receives a compelling and engaging viewing experience.

In conclusion, Jonathan Frakes' quote encapsulates the differences between working on daily soap operas and a weekly show, offering valuable insights into the distinct dynamics of these television formats. His perspective underscores the significance of time, coverage, and preparation in shaping the creative process and production outcomes. Through his reflections, Frakes provides a glimpse into the multifaceted nature of television production and the ways in which varying formats can impact the storytelling and execution of content.