New Delhi, Nov. 9 -- As filmmaker Karan Johar and JioStar prepare to end the 22-year-old chat show Koffee With Karan, currently in its final season, the decision highlights a larger question facing streaming platforms: how long should a successful show run?

Even legacy shows with loyal audiences may not justify another season. While Johar has said he wants to focus on directing feature films, platforms generally assess whether a long-running show continues to attract and retain viewers, drive subscriptions or advertising revenue, and deliver returns proportionate to its production and marketing costs.

Ending a show, however, does not mean its commercial life is over. Depending on the rights available, older content can continue to earn ...