Which strategy does Hesmondhalgh cite as offsetting risk in media products by using stars, sequels, and well-known genres?

• A. Using stars, sequels, and well-known genres
• B. Diversification into unrelated sectors
• C. Government subsidies
• D. Crowdfunding

Answer: (D)

Offsetting risk in media products comes from leveraging built‑in appeal that already has an audience. Using stars, sequels, and well‑known genres taps into pre‑sold demand: a famous actor can attract fans and attention; a sequel builds on an established storyline and audience familiarity; and familiar genres offer clearer expectations about what fans will get, making it easier to market the product and predict revenue. This combination reduces uncertainty for investors, studios, and distributors because the likelihood of strong returns is higher when there is an existing fan base and recognizable content.

Diversification into unrelated sectors spreads risk across different markets, but it doesn’t hinge on the audience appeal of a single product. Subsidies and crowdfunding are funding routes rather than production strategies tied to the product’s built‑in appeal, though they can influence risk in other ways.