broadcasting for the first time
The first-run syndication refers to the first time a program airs on television. Each new episode will be broadcast for the first time, and the show is not restricted to airing on only one network. Examples of these shows include The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Dr. Phil, Family Feud, Judge Judy, and many others. These shows primarily air on the same channel each time for the first time, but then can be aired by affiliates and other networks during re-runs.
In this context, re-runs can be called off-network syndication. This means that a show, like Judge Judy, will air on one network for the first time, but then can be “re-run” on another network later on. Off-network syndication does not happen instantly for each show; once enough content has been created, a show can begin its off-network syndication. In most cases, these shows are aired on smaller networks that are affiliated with the network that aired the first-run. The third type of syndication is public broadcasting, which allows for multiple networks to air the same content and share their programs (this is open to independents and members of the Public Broadcasting Service). In a similar vein, there can also be international syndication, allowing for different countries to broadcast programs at the same time.