I only watch top tier players so I can get better at whatever the game is. I'd rather be playing, but my obligations are such that I can watch (say, while doing laundry or dishes) when I can't play. I find it makes my play sessions more effective since I have strategies to succeed where I'd otherwise fail.

That said, I'm pretty sure I'm in the minority given that many of the chats I see on streams are like "what did I miss?" or "has streamer done X yet?" like they're watching a drama. I don't understand that aspect of streaming, yet comments like yours show that I'm likely in the minority.

I think that's really interesting and turns gaming from a hobby to a social endeavor.