Report: Studio 60 Cancellaiton Imminent

[Zzot]

On Monday, ‘Heroes’ had 14.3 million viewers. The substantial drop off with 'Studio 60' is probably the last nail in its coffin.

Why does leadin have anything to do with anything? I have a remote control...I can change the channel quite easily. Actually, I have a DVR and rarely watch anything live, so I could care less about what show was on before or after any other show.

[DevdogAZ]

Why does leadin have anything to do with anything? I have a remote control...I can change the channel quite easily. Actually, I have a DVR and rarely watch anything live, so I could care less about what show was on before or after any other show.
From the network's perspective, every timeslot has a perceived value. A timeslot opposite a huge ratings grabber is not as valuable, and a timeslot following a hit is perceived as very valuable. The viewers of one show on a network are supposed to carry over to the next show, at least in network exec's minds. They know you have the ability to change the channel, but they expect that you'll stick around because their programming is superior. The problem is, when they put incompatible shows back to back, like Heroes and S60, it's error on the exec's part, not on the part of the viewer.

[TAsunder]

I've just gotta ask...doesn't anyone watch tv for entertainment anymore? :confused:

I'm apparently in the minority here (please don't read this as my being stupid or ignorant, which could be the case, lol), but I honestly haven't even noticed politics or any other form of bias in this show.

I don't get it... why can't we do both? I'm entertained by the show and I notice the bias. Why is that so wrong?

[katbug]

It's not so wrong, it just seems like people are dissecting it (and lots of other shows lately) more than enjoying it. I don't think I personally could enjoy a show if I was watching it so closely for agendas, bias, or errors...it would take the enjoyment out of the show for me. If others can do both, all the more power to 'em. All of the discussion about the show's hidden agendas were started by people who quit watching 'cuz they didn't enjoy the show due to the agendas, etc...so they chose the dissection over the entertainment. That's all ;0)

[YCantAngieRead]

It's not so wrong, it just seems like people are dissecting it (and lots of other shows lately) more than enjoying it. I don't think I personally could enjoy a show if I was watching it so closely for agendas, bias, or errors...it would take the enjoyment out of the show for me. If others can do both, all the more power to 'em. All of the discussion about the show's hidden agendas were started by people who quit watching 'cuz they didn't enjoy the show due to the agendas, etc...so they chose the dissection over the entertainment. That's all ;0)
katbug, I could NOT agree with you more.

[drew2k]

A REPORT BY A FOXNEWS.COM columnist that NBC's heavily promoted "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip" would be dropped from the schedule created a frisson Monday, but appears to be premature.
http://publications.mediapost.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=Articles.showArticleHomePage&art_aid=50417


Hopefully they'll at least stick with it for awhile.Frisson. That's such an elitist liberal word... :mad:



LOL! Just kidding!

:) :p :D

[drew2k]

It's not so wrong, it just seems like people are dissecting it (and lots of other shows lately) more than enjoying it. I don't think I personally could enjoy a show if I was watching it so closely for agendas, bias, or errors...it would take the enjoyment out of the show for me. If others can do both, all the more power to 'em. All of the discussion about the show's hidden agendas were started by people who quit watching 'cuz they didn't enjoy the show due to the agendas, etc...so they chose the dissection over the entertainment. That's all ;0)I also agree with you. I don't care about the political motivations are behind the show, as long as I enjoy the show.

Whenever I hear "Peace Train" on the radio, I enjoy it. That won't stop because Cat Stevens converted to a new religion and made some political statements....

[TAsunder]

It's not so wrong, it just seems like people are dissecting it (and lots of other shows lately) more than enjoying it. I don't think I personally could enjoy a show if I was watching it so closely for agendas, bias, or errors...it would take the enjoyment out of the show for me. If others can do both, all the more power to 'em. All of the discussion about the show's hidden agendas were started by people who quit watching 'cuz they didn't enjoy the show due to the agendas, etc...so they chose the dissection over the entertainment. That's all ;0)

As far as I know there's no way for me to turn off the part in my brain that notices obvious political analogy or commentary. If there were, I might not consider V for Vendetta to be one of the worst movies in history.

[Raimi]

It's not so wrong, it just seems like people are dissecting it (and lots of other shows lately) more than enjoying it. I don't think I personally could enjoy a show if I was watching it so closely for agendas, bias, or errors...it would take the enjoyment out of the show for me. If others can do both, all the more power to 'em. All of the discussion about the show's hidden agendas were started by people who quit watching 'cuz they didn't enjoy the show due to the agendas, etc...so they chose the dissection over the entertainment. That's all ;0)I can understand your point. However, I don't attempt to dissect the show. I do closely follow politics, and as a result many things simply jump out at me. I tried enjoying S60 which is why I gave it 3 episodes even though I am completely aware of the writers political viewpoint. Unfortunately, I was not able to enjoy it due to some of its content. There's a reason Sorkin included those things. Whether he was deliberately trying to make a point (which is what I believe), or whether it is simply a result of his personal outlook, it is there. :)

[Raimi]

As far as I know there's no way for me to turn off the part in my brain that notices obvious political analogy or commentary. If there were, I might not consider V for Vendetta to be one of the worst movies in history.Agreed.

[Ereth]

As far as I know there's no way for me to turn off the part in my brain that notices obvious political analogy or commentary. If there were, I might not consider V for Vendetta to be one of the worst movies in history.

Someday we'll have to talk about that, since I absolutely LOVE "V for Vendetta", and probably for the same reasons you hate it. That's a conversation for another thread, however.

I DO want to point out that I find it odd that Raimi would criticize Studio 60 for it's portrayal of Christians when it has probably the strongest Christian character on any mainstream show I've seen in years. Harriet not only is Christian, but willing to discuss her faith and how it gives her strength, AND how it's not in fashion in Hollywood. You cannot just ignore her wonderful line "You are from Washington and I work in Hollywood, but I assure you that in the rest of the country in between those two places the fact that I believe in a higher power would not even raise an eyebrow" (paraphrased from memory).

She's pointing out that Hollywood and Washington DC may be anti-Christian, but the core of the nation ISN'T.

Now, I'm NOT a Christian, and I can appreciate the strength of her faith and her point that most of America doesn't find her beliefs to be "odd" at all, so I'm surprised that someone who IS a Christian would be offended by "the way Christians are presented". I suspect, instead, that they are offended by the opinions of a character on the show who does not particularly like Christians, not the show itself, which as far as I can tell, seems to be giving equal time to both points of view, a rarity on TV these days.

[Raimi]

Someday we'll have to talk about that, since I absolutely LOVE "V for Vendetta", and probably for the same reasons you hate it. That's a conversation for another thread, however.

I DO want to point out that I find it odd that Raimi would criticize Studio 60 for it's portrayal of Christians when it has probably the strongest Christian character on any mainstream show I've seen in years. Harriet not only is Christian, but willing to discuss her faith and how it gives her strength, AND how it's not in fashion in Hollywood. You cannot just ignore her wonderful line "You are from Washington and I work in Hollywood, but I assure you that in the rest of the country in between those two places the fact that I believe in a higher power would not even raise an eyebrow" (paraphrased from memory).

She's pointing out that Hollywood and Washington DC may be anti-Christian, but the core of the nation ISN'T.

Now, I'm NOT a Christian, and I can appreciate the strength of her faith and her point that most of America doesn't find her beliefs to be "odd" at all, so I'm surprised that someone who IS a Christian would be offended by "the way Christians are presented". I suspect, instead, that they are offended by the opinions of a character on the show who does not particularly like Christians, not the show itself, which as far as I can tell, seems to be giving equal time to both points of view, a rarity on TV these days.

I've already stated that the Christian aspect isn't what really annoyed me about the show but that I merely mentioned it because I couldn't remember each political jab that annoyed me without watching again. I viewed Harriet as more of a "token" religious character but I think your right that she is portrayed better than other Christian characters I've seen (in fact I can't think of a Christian character on TV that I've seen that wasn't the evil antagonist). I'm not a Christian either, so perhaps that is why this aspect of the show didn't particularly bother me.

[Amnesia]

I can't think of a Christian character on TV that I've seen that wasn't the evil antagonistNed Flanders.

[DreadPirateRob]

... in fact I can't think of a Christian character on TV that I've seen that wasn't the evil antagonist...

The Camden family from 7th Heaven is the only that really comes to mind. I guess whether that show is "mainstream" is another discussion altogether.

As for the Harriet character, I am a Christian and I find it rather refreshing that she is such a strong character and treated with respect rather than pity/contempt/smugness. It's not much, but it's far more than I expect from most television. If the show lasts, however, I'd prefer it if her faith wasn't such a big part of the storyline - I'd rather it just be "there" and accepted for what it is rather than pushed to the forefront so often.

[Tweety_pbe98]

...in fact I can't think of a Christian character on TV that I've seen that wasn't the evil antagonist...
Jed Bartlet

[Raimi]

Jed BartletAt least Sorkin is consistent with the "token" religious person. :D

I stand corrected, there is one family, and two other religious characters on tv in the last 5 years that aren't "evil" (and yes, I'll even count Flanders). :)

[aindik]

At least Sorkin is consistent with the "token" religious person. :D

I stand corrected, there is one family, and two other religious characters on tv in the last 5 years that aren't "evil" (and yes, I'll even count Flanders). :)

Try turning on the TV next month. You'll be hard pressed not to see Santa Claus all day every day on every channel.

;)

[Martin Tupper]

Rescue Me had Jesus as a recuring character. If I understand correctly, he is highly regarded in Christian circles.

[Raimi]

Try turning on the TV next month. You'll be hard pressed not to see Santa Claus all day every day on every channel.

;)I could argue that Santa Claus is more of a cultural entity now as opposed to a religious one but I won't. On a side note, when I was flipping through the channels a couple days before Halloween I stumbled across "Santa's Slay" where Santa was killing all the boys and girls that wouldn't stop sending him letters. :D

[Raimi]

Rescue Me had Jesus as a recuring character. If I understand correctly, he is highly regarded in Christian circles.Ok, we'll add the hallucination Jesus to the list of positive religious characters.

[Magnolia88]

One of the central characters in Everwood was a fairly devout Christian (Harold Abbott) and that show routinely depicted people going to church and discussing topics that touched on religious beliefs.

I never understood why that show wasn't embraced more by the "Christian" groups who are so quick to complain about all the stuff on TV that offends them. It was a great show that allowed the characters to have disagreements but it never came off as preachy.

The reason TV stays away from depicting characters of any devout religious faith (not just Christian) is that any discussion of religion is bound to offend someone. So the conventional wisdom is that it's better to avoid it altogether. It's not that Hollywood is "anti-Christian" so much that they are risk-averse. Sorkin doesn't seem too afraid of offending people, I'll give him that.

[aindik]

One of the central characters in Everwood

The first time I read that, I thought it said "Deadwood."

I never understood why that show wasn't embraced more by the "Christian" groups who are so quick to complain about all the stuff on TV that offends them.

Then I read that. You can imagine my shock.

:o

[MerlinMacuser]

I can save this show with just two words: Nude Mud Wrestling. Oh, right that's three words.

Ok, then just Nude Wrestling. Yes, that's the ticket. Or bowling. Either wrestling or bowling...just make it nude, or naked either one.

I am so depressed. This was/is the best show on the commercial networks. It'll probably win awards after it's canceled. Bummer.

[Raimi]

I can save this show with just two words: Nude Mud Wrestling. Oh, right that's three words.

Ok, then just Nude Wrestling. Yes, that's the ticket. Or bowling. Either wrestling or bowling...just make it nude, or naked either one.

I am so depressed. This was/is the best show on the commercial networks. It'll probably win awards after it's canceled. Bummer.I'd happily jump on the Nude Wrestling bandwagon.

[Magnolia88]

The first time I read that, I thought it said "Deadwood."

LOL. That sort of reinforces my point: it's the "shocking" and "offensive" shows that get all the press, while a good "wholesome" show like Everwood gets ignored by the press and the audience.

The "Christian" groups can complain all they want about the sex and violence on TV, but that's what people want to watch. If all the people claiming to be "Christians" were watching Everwood, it would still be on the air. It's the non-stop sex of GA and the non-stop violence of CSI that people want. (With a little ballroom dancing on the side.)

Which is sort of why S60 made a point of talking about these groups that spearhead the complaints and boycotts. They represent a tiny percentage of the viewing public but they wield a ridiculous amount of influence on the FCC.

[drew2k]

One of the central characters in Everwood [..]Burn in hell WB CW!

[Raimi]

I can check myself - which episode did this occur in?Any luck? I got home and went to check myself and realized I didn't still have the show on my Tivo. So I guess it's up to you to verify the info.

[LoadStar]

Any luck? I got home and went to check myself and realized I didn't still have the show on my Tivo. So I guess it's up to you to verify the info.

No, I didn't have the time yet... still plan to. :)

[Raimi]

No, I didn't have the time yet... still plan to. :)Sounds good. :)

[jsmeeker]

Ned Flanders.


but Ned is a real ninny. :D

[jsmeeker]

At least Sorkin is consistent with the "token" religious person. :D

I stand corrected, there is one family, and two other religious characters on tv in the last 5 years that aren't "evil" (and yes, I'll even count Flanders). :)


President Bartlett wasn't the only religious person on The West Wing. Don't forget about Toby. There were also conservatives portrayed in a favorable way. Ainsley Hays for one.

[Magnolia88]

There have also been at least two shows in recent years - other than 7th Heaven -- that revolved around members of the clergy (Nothing Sacred and Book of Daniel). But both of them received lots of protests and didn't last long. So the message to the TV networks: don't portray anyone who is devoutly religious because many people will be offended. :rolleyes:

[aindik]

Don't forget about Toby.

Toby only counts if we've completely transitioned from "Christians" to "religious people." Something tells me the people complaining about an absence of religious characters on TV didn't exactly have Tobias Ziegler in mind.

As for another religious Christian on TV, there's Mr. Eko on Lost. Though, he's also a former murdering gang leader, so there's that.

[dswallow]

Book of Daniel
Thanks for the reminder... the DVD set was released in late September; ordered. :)

[Ruth]

I can't think of a Christian character on TV that I've seen that wasn't the evil antagonist[].

Please, that is just ridiculous. I don't even see how you can say that with a straight face. Just like in American life, the majority of characters on American TV are Christians of some sort. It may not be a featured aspect of the show, or a highlighted element of the character, but it's very commonly assumed or mentioned in the background.

Nearly every show on TV has a holiday-themed episode in December that features families celebrating Christmas, including showing or referencing attending Church. Zillions of TV shows feature weddings occurring in churches and/or with religious officiants. We also commonly see baptisms, communions, Catholic last rites, religious funerals, and all kinds of other portrayals and references to people attending Church or being Christians. We see kids saying Christian prayers at night, people saying Grace before eating, people praying to Jesus in times of trouble, references to Easter and Christmas, references to going to Church on Sunday.

These things all are sprinkled thoughout the fabric of TV life, just as they are in real life. Some of the Christian characters are good, some are bad, most are mixed -- again, just like real life. If you think all the Christians on TV are being shown as evil, you're just not paying attention.

[jsmeeker]

Toby only counts if we've completely transitioned from "Christians" to "religious people."

Did you READ the post I quoted?

:)

[aindik]

Did you READ the post I quoted?

:)

Yep. I was commenting on what was probably that post's looseness with the language (i.e. not saying what he probably really means). Not yours.

[jsmeeker]

Yep. I was commenting on what was probably that post's looseness with the language (i.e. not saying what he probably really means). Not yours.

He's also used the word "religious" in some posts just before that one about Bartlett.

But yes, if he got loose, he got loose. What can I do? I can only comment on the words in the post I quote. :)

[aindik]

He's also used the word "religious" in some posts just before that one about Bartlett.

But yes, if he got loose, he got loose. What can I do? I can only comment on the words in the post I quote. :)

I can only guess, but my guess is, he meant "religious" as a synonym for "Christian," which it is not. That's my guess because he seems to have switched terms mid-stream and used the two interchangeably. I was simply calling him on that.

[Magnolia88]

Some of the Christian characters are good, some are bad, most are mixed -- again, just like real life. If you think all the Christians on TV are being shown as evil, you're just not paying attention.

Indeed. I totally agree with your entire post, but it also occurred to me that another new show is full of overtly religious characters: Friday Night Lights. That show is full of "good Christian folks" talking about their faith and going to church and openly praying and stuff like that. Yet again, another show that nobody pays any attention to.

[Lee L]

Ainsley Hays for one.

Oh, I loved Ainsley!

[Raimi]

It appears to me that I am wrong when it comes to the portrayal of Christians on television. I don't mind admitting that many of you have made me re-evaluate my statement. I'm a bonehead but it was a fun discussion nonetheless. :)

Of course this doesn't change my opinion of S60 or its political bias. After all, I've already repeatedly stated that the portrayal of Christians in the show wasn't what bothered me.

[MerlinMacuser]

Please, people. Can we stop all the talk about religion and get back to the nude wrestling discussion! This show is already on life support and the shark is waiting in the wings....

(mixing multiple metephors there, hope you noticed)

[Magnolia88]

EW's Popwatch blog (http://popwatch.ew.com/popwatch/2006/11/studio_60_not_d.html) talks about the kerfuffle over the premature report of S60's alleged demise.

Fox News (in the person of less-than-oracular Roger Friedman) preemptively announced the show’s cancellation, and got a pop on the wrist from its old adversary, reality. Kevin Reilly, president of the network, says he’s 100% behind the show -- that’s probably not exactly true, either, but he's sure putting his money where his mouth is: Studio 60's on every Monday during November sweeps. Meanwhile, as media vultures split hairs and NBC honcho Jeff Zucker decides how many Strindberg references can dance on the pin of his head, YOUR BROTHER IS STANDING IN THE MIDDLE OF AFGHANISTAN.

NBC says Studio 60 has a future as long as it stays above a 3 share. (To put this in perspective: A 3 share is what’s left on the kleenex when NCIS blows its nose.)

I didn't see this linked yet, but apologies if this has already been mentioned.

[Lee L]

Wow, a 3 share. I can;t beleive that any show gets much less than that on a network.

[battleaxe]

I thought this show was decent at first, but it seemed like a one trick pony...I'm not going to be too disappointed if its finished.

[DreadPirateRob]

The latest TV Guide says that the average income of Studio 60 viewers is $66,000, by far the largest of any network show. Of course, there's no chart showing what the average incomes for other shows are, and no explanation for how this information was obtained, but if true, it seems to lend some credence to the "alpha viewer" idea.

[DevdogAZ]

The latest TV Guide says that the average income of Studio 60 viewers is $66,000, by far the largest of any network show. Of course, there's no chart showing what the average incomes for other shows are, and no explanation for how this information was obtained, but if true, it seems to lend some credence to the "alpha viewer" idea.
The article that I linked earlier (where I got in trouble for smeeking because it had already been posted) actually said it's 4th this season in average viewer income. However, it didn't say what the top three are.

[Magnolia88]

The article that I linked earlier (where I got in trouble for smeeking because it had already been posted) actually said it's 4th this season in average viewer income. However, it didn't say what the top three are.

I would bet that The Office is at or near the top as well. It's not at the top of the ratings for overall viewers, but one of the reasons it's considered such a huge hit at NBC is that it rates very highly with young affluent viewers.

And "affluent" viewers isn't the same concept as the Alpha Consumer, but they're similar. Young affluent viewers are also prized by advertisers, but "Alpha Consumer" is a term of art in marketing meaning "hip trendspotters." People who catch on to the "next big thing" before other people and set the trends instead of follow them.

[aindik]

The article that I linked earlier (where I got in trouble for smeeking because it had already been posted) actually said it's 4th this season in average viewer income. However, it didn't say what the top three are.

I bet 60 Minutes is up there.

Which is why income isn't the only important measure. Advertisers don't care about people 55+ even though they have lots of money. Lots of money is only half the equation. You also have to be susceptible to change your behavior based on advertising, or it doesn't matter how much money you have.

Also, I bet the "average income" for Warren Buffett's home movies is pretty high. Doesn't mean they should be on TV. :)

[dswallow]

I really wish someone would fix the title of this thread; I can't stand typos like that. :)

[Fahtrim]

I really wish someone would fix the title of this thread; I can't stand typos like that. :)




Cancullaitione ?

[kbohip]

I won't be sorry to see it go as I never made it past the first episode. Watching a tv show about a tv show was just too much. I do hope they keep it on the air for all you fans in this thread though.

[YCantAngieRead]

I won't be sorry to see it go as I never made it past the first episode. Watching a tv show about a tv show was just too much. I do hope they keep it on the air for all you fans in this thread though.

Wow. That's such a fresh point of view I wanted to quote it for posterity.

NO one ever wants a show they don't like to stay around for the fans around here! :) :up:

[marksman]

Anyone worried about John Goodman being in this week's episode? I have always liked John Goodman, but he does have the potential to spin the entire show off it's axis and into the sun.

[Mr. Soze]

Anyone worried about John Goodman being in this week's episode? I have always liked John Goodman, but he does have the potential to spin the entire show off it's axis and into the sun.
At least it's not Ted McGinley

[edc]

Anyone worried about John Goodman being in this week's episode? I have always liked John Goodman, but he does have the potential to spin the entire show off it's axis and into the sun.


John Goodman can do Sorkinese. I'm a little more worried that this will be a little too reminiscent of the first season WW episode ("Celestial Navigation") where the staff has to go rescue the President's Supreme Court nominee from a small town jail.

[CharlieW]

Love John Goodman.

Highly underrated actor who's work in the Coen Brothers films is always tremendous.


Just want to throw my hat in the ring as someone who has been enjoying the show. I allowed three episodes to stack up on my TiVo and watched them over this weekend and found the writing and acting to be very, very good. Sorkin is still working these characters -- letting us get to know all of them. Give him some time, this series shows a lot of promise.

More entertaining than most shows on TV, IMHO.

[Mabes]

When a show like this is put up against CSI Miami it is almost bound to fail. They've already invested time and effort and money into, why not at least put it in another time slot for a few weeks?

[Magister]

It is scary that a show like CSI:Miami is doing so well. Just seems like a big bag of suck. Horrible writing, horrible characters...

But Studio 60 seems pretty darned different than anything else on the tube now. Hope it can last

[Sadara]

I just saw this thread, did not read all the responses.

My husband is going to be so upset, he watches this show every week and loves it.

[murgatroyd]

It is scary that a show like CSI:Miami is doing so well. Just seems like a big bag of suck. Horrible writing, horrible characters...

You left out the horrible acting by the colossally-egoistic air-time-sucking lead actor. ;)

Jan

[PJO1966]

I just saw this thread, did not read all the responses.

My husband is going to be so upset, he watches this show every week and loves it.


NBC has disputed the report and says that it has no plans on canceling it.

[DevdogAZ]

http://www.zap2it.com/tv/ratings/zap-ratings110606,0,877189.story?coll=zap-tv-ratings-headlines

S60 finished third last night with a 4.8/8 but it was not an ordinary night since ABC aired the Country Music Awards and that gave ABC many more viewers than they usually get on Mondays.

[DougF]

http://www.zap2it.com/tv/ratings/zap-ratings110606,0,877189.story?coll=zap-tv-ratings-headlines

S60 finished third last night with a 4.8/8 but it was not an ordinary night since ABC aired the Country Music Awards and that gave ABC many more viewers than they usually get on Mondays.

4.8 is right in line with the drop that S60 has been getting every week.

I doubt the CMAs had anything to do with it.

[aindik]

The CMAs and Studio 60 don't seem the share the same demographics to me.

[DevdogAZ]

The CMAs and Studio 60 don't seem the share the same demographics to me.
I was simply pointing out that ABC took a larger share of viewers than usual. They never win Monday night, yet they did this week. It may not have had a large effect on S60, but it definitely had a large effect on the night's ratings.

[aindik]

I was simply pointing out that ABC took a larger share of viewers than usual. They never win Monday night, yet they did this week. It may not have had a large effect on S60, but it definitely had a large effect on the night's ratings.

It may have an effect on ABC's ratings, and may have an effect on the ranking, but it shouldn't (if my demographic hypothesis is correct) have any effect on Studio 60's rating, or even their share (unless the people watching the CMAs are people who otherwise wouldn't be watching TV at all).

[Sadara]

NBC has disputed the report and says that it has no plans on canceling it.

Thanks for the info!

[katbug]

You left out the horrible acting by the colossally-egoistic air-time-sucking lead actor. ;)

Jan
Which is exactly the reason that no one I know personally watches it (I bailed when I saw the lead actor). I can't imagine how it's succeeding! :down: :down:

[unixadm]

If this is cancelled, it again shows that the networks and majority of the general public don't want smart, witty and intelligent shows. Just like they cancelled "Sports Night" and left other stupid shows that were doing worse in the ratings on for another season or two.

This is a great show......I still like Sports Night better as far as the characters and the show within a show, but this has a similiar feel, fixes some of the mistakes that were made in Sports Night (1 hour, instead of 1/2 hour....no laugh track, etc) and keeps the intelligent viewer watching.

It is really sad to see that network TV has been dumbed down so much that the public can't handle a smart show. There really are very few network shows that are worth watching anymore. This is a welcome break from all the reality crap, the dozens of CSI's and clones, etc.

[MegaHertz67]

It is scary that a show like CSI:Miami is doing so well. Just seems like a big bag of suck. Horrible writing, horrible characters...
You left out the horrible acting by the colossally-egoistic air-time-sucking lead actor. ;)
Which is exactly the reason that no one I know personally watches it (I bailed when I saw the lead actor). I can't imagine how it's succeeding! :down: :down:
The beautiful thing about television is that there is something for everyone. My wife and I both watch and enjoy CSI: Miami. We both watch and enjoy Studio 60. If I could only watch one, it would be S60...but thanks to Tivo, I don't have to choose.

It is my understanding that they were going to put S60 on Thursday at 9pm, and panicked when Grey's Anatomy got moved there and came to Monday instead. It doesn't fit with Heroes as a lead-in, as others here have pointed out. Maybe it will find a home on Sundays after football season is over. Sunday at 10pm seems like a good fit...again depending on the lead-in. Just my opinion.

I love this show for the same reasons I loved West Wing and Sports Night...it gives you credit for having a brain and the ability to use it. That may be why it is losing audience...everybody needs their entertainment spoon-fed to them. And THAT is way CSI: Miami gets such good ratings.

[TAsunder]

If this is cancelled, it again shows that the networks and majority of the general public don't want smart, witty and intelligent shows. Just like they cancelled "Sports Night" and left other stupid shows that were doing worse in the ratings on for another season or two.

This is a great show......I still like Sports Night better as far as the characters and the show within a show, but this has a similiar feel, fixes some of the mistakes that were made in Sports Night (1 hour, instead of 1/2 hour....no laugh track, etc) and keeps the intelligent viewer watching.

It is really sad to see that network TV has been dumbed down so much that the public can't handle a smart show. There really are very few network shows that are worth watching anymore. This is a welcome break from all the reality crap, the dozens of CSI's and clones, etc.

It doesn't show anything of the sort even if it is cancelled. There are plenty of intelligent and witty shows, plenty of comedies without laugh tracks, etc. TV has not been dumbed down compared to the past. Are you going to tell me that Full House is smarter than most current sitcoms? Knight Rider is more intelligent than modern action dramas? Do you look fondly back on baywatch and the avengers for their intelligence and wit?

[balboa dave]

It doesn't show anything of the sort even if it is cancelled. There are plenty of intelligent and witty shows, plenty of comedies without laugh tracks, etc. TV has not been dumbed down compared to the past. Are you going to tell me that Full House is smarter than most current sitcoms? Knight Rider is more intelligent than modern action dramas? Do you look fondly back on baywatch and the avengers for their intelligence and wit?What the hell is wrong with you? The Avengers was wit and intelligence personified. Smart, stylish, and a little bit sexy too. I liked your argument until you brought that up.

[HomieG]

If NBC cancels this show, it will show just how badly they are run. I'd love to see HBO pick this show up, and then really have a hey-day about NBC through the episodes. Now that would be sweet justice.

[dswallow]

If NBC cancels this show, it will show just how badly they are run. I'd love to see HBO pick this show up, and then really have a hey-day about NBC through the episodes. Now that would be sweet justice.
If NBC canceled it, HBO or Showtime could pick it up and then have NBS cancel it and HBO or Showtime pick it up. And Nations.

:)

[vikingguy]

If NBC canceled it, HBO or Showtime could pick it up and then have NBS cancel it and HBO or Showtime pick it up. And Nations.

:)

The show is way way to expensive for HBO/showtime to pick up. If the network gives the show a fair chance I can't fault them for cancelling an expensive show that is not performing in the ratings. It is when a network cancells a show after 2-3 episodes that drives me nuts.

[DougF]

If NBC cancels this show, it will show just how badly they are run...

How so? The show is expensive and is not drawing viewers. It has lost nearly half it's audience since the premiere.

From wiki:


1 "Pilot" September 18, 2006 Monday 10:00PM 2006-2007 8.6 14 13.14 # 22
2 "The Cold Open" September 25, 2006 Monday 10:00PM 2006-2007 7.5 12 10.82 # 33
3 "The Focus Group" October 2, 2006 Monday 10:00PM 2006-2007 6.0 10 8.85 # 47
4 "The West Coast Delay" October 9, 2006 Monday 10:00PM 2006-2007 5.8 9 8.66 # 51
5 "The Long Lead Story" October 16, 2006 Monday 10:00PM 2006-2007 5.3 8 7.74 # 55
6 "The Wrap Party" October 23, 2006 Monday 10:00PM 2006-2007 5.1 8 7.72 # 60


devdogaz posted last nights rating/share (4.8/8) earlier.

It had viewers to start and couldn't hold them. How does that show that NBC is run badly?

[HomieG]

How does that show that NBC is run badly?

NBC is in THIRD place overall this season. Not just one show caused that. It's a sign that their strategy is flawed. I don't think the network set out to be #3 this season. It also is contributing less and less to GE's bottom line, year-over-year. I wouldn't quite call that a well run network.

Viewers (in millions) that each network averaged per hour of prime time, for last week and for the season:
Network Last week Season to date
CBS 12.53 12.78
ABC 11.25 11.68
NBC 9.92 10.44

[Rob Helmerichs]

It had viewers to start and couldn't hold them. How does that show that NBC is run badly?
Well, for one thing they're not sending squads of armed men out to hold Nielsen families hostage for an hour Monday nights. To me, that shows a total lack of commitment on NBC's part.

[cherry ghost]

Cancel the Funeral:
'Studio 60' Isn't Heading Off Into the Sunset Just Yet
By Ray Richmond The Hollywood Reporter in his blog “Past Deadline” Nov. 7, 2006

"Despite the assurances from those in-the-know around the blogosphere that the struggling freshman NBC hour "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip" was mere hours away from cancellation with its low ratings and extravagant $2 million-per-episode pricetag, the opposite now in fact appears to be true. While not yet official, key industry sources are confident that NBC will, in the next few days, announce the show's pickup for its back nine episodes (giving it a full season complement of 22) in the wake of two consecutive Mondays of upwardly-trending numbers."

http://www.pastdeadline.com/

[murgatroyd]

What the hell is wrong with you? The Avengers was wit and intelligence personified. Smart, stylish, and a little bit sexy too. I liked your argument until you brought that up.

+1

Jan

[marksman]

Cancel the Funeral:
'Studio 60' Isn't Heading Off Into the Sunset Just Yet
By Ray Richmond The Hollywood Reporter in his blog “Past Deadline” Nov. 7, 2006

"Despite the assurances from those in-the-know around the blogosphere that the struggling freshman NBC hour "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip" was mere hours away from cancellation with its low ratings and extravagant $2 million-per-episode pricetag, the opposite now in fact appears to be true. While not yet official, key industry sources are confident that NBC will, in the next few days, announce the show's pickup for its back nine episodes (giving it a full season complement of 22) in the wake of two consecutive Mondays of upwardly-trending numbers."

http://www.pastdeadline.com/

Good news.

[ruexp67]

Good news.

+1

I for one, really like this show, and will continue to watch.

[richNYC]

from http://www.pastdeadline.com/ :

The Wall Street Journal wrote that when you add in people who TiVo our show and watch it later, our audience grows 18%," [Sorkin] said. "That's almost a full fifth larger. But those people don't get counted and advertisers don't care, because the assumption is TiVo viewers forward through the commercials. But that's still a very significant number for us. It would add close to two rating points to our total. People watch TV differently than they used to, and to be accurate the ratings need to begin taking that into account."

[Alfer]

Ratings:
Week Episode Air Date Timeslot (EST) TV Season Rating Share Viewers Rank
1 "Pilot" September 18, 2006 Monday 10:00PM 2006-2007 8.6 14 13.14 # 22
2 "The Cold Open" September 25, 2006 Monday 10:00PM 2006-2007 7.5 12 10.82 # 33
3 "The Focus Group" October 2, 2006 Monday 10:00PM 2006-2007 6.0 10 8.85 # 47
4 "The West Coast Delay" October 9, 2006 Monday 10:00PM 2006-2007 5.8 9 8.66 # 51
5 "The Long Lead Story" October 16, 2006 Monday 10:00PM 2006-2007 5.3 8 7.74 # 55
6 "The Wrap Party" October 23, 2006 Monday 10:00PM 2006-2007 5.1 8 7.72 # 60
7 "Nevada Day (1)" November 6, 2006 Monday 10:00PM 2006-2007 4.9 8 7.78 na

[marksman]

Interesting, so the share and rating have been pretty much the same for the past 3 weeks.

As for the TiVo think, that is all good for Sorkin to say that, but I don't know what the average is for tv shows. I assume they are higher (I think Studio 60 is in top 10 on TiVo Shows or at least top 20)... but perhaps it is an opportunity to pursue product placement advertising to help support the show.

[DougF]

from http://www.pastdeadline.com/ :

The Wall Street Journal wrote that when you add in people who TiVo our show and watch it later, our audience grows 18%," [Sorkin] said. "That's almost a full fifth larger. But those people don't get counted and advertisers don't care, because the assumption is TiVo viewers forward through the commercials. But that's still a very significant number for us. It would add close to two rating points to our total. People watch TV differently than they used to, and to be accurate the ratings need to begin taking that into account."

That's probably true for most shows. If you add in all shows that are recorded (DVR, VCR, DVD recorder, etc.) and watched later, I'm willing to bet that overall rankings for most shows wouldn't change much. The 45th place show would probably still be around the 45th place show.

[dswallow]

That's probably true for most shows. If you add in all shows that are recorded (DVR, VCR, DVD recorder, etc.) and watched later, I'm willing to bet that overall rankings for most shows wouldn't change much. The 45th place show would probably still be around the 45th place show.
I'd think an 18% increase across the board would require many more DVR users than are actually out there.

[TAsunder]

Who knew we had so many closet avengers fans.

[scooterboy]

I would also bet that when a (single tuner) tivo viewer has a conflict between S60 and another show, they would likely tivo S60 and watch the other show live.

Why? Sorkin's shows have a lot of dialogue often spoken at breakneck speeds. It's nice to have the instant replay feature when the viewer needs to hear something a second time.

This might skew the numbers a bit toward S60 being tivo'd versus another show.

[marrone]

That's a good point. Sometimes it took me a while to actually watch a West Wing, because I was too busy doing an instant replay "What the $#@! did he just mumble?"

-Mike

[marksman]

Looking at TiVo's top recorded shows, Studio 60 is number 9.

So the percentage is probably significantly higher, as most of the other top 10 shows are also top 10-20 shows in the ratings.

http://www3.tivo.com/tivo-tco/top25.do?show25=seasonpass

[rkester]

Wow, looking at that list, I see only 3 items on it I record, one of them being Studio 60. And of those 3, all three are top notch in my book.

Still hoping that S60 will avoid the axe. It's sad that people don't watch it as much as they should. Yet they watch Survivor or the 2 CSIs? wth:(

[PJO1966]

Wow, looking at that list, I see only 3 items on it I record, one of them being Studio 60. And of those 3, all three are top notch in my book.

Still hoping that S60 will avoid the axe. It's sad that people don't watch it as much as they should. Yet they watch Survivor or the 2 CSIs? wth:(


9/12 for me, but my TiVo viewing counts for Nielson.

[DevdogAZ]

Looking at TiVo's top recorded shows, Studio 60 is number 9.

So the percentage is probably significantly higher, as most of the other top 10 shows are also top 10-20 shows in the ratings.

http://www3.tivo.com/tivo-tco/top25.do?show25=seasonpass
We record 9 of the top 10 and 16 of the top 25.

[marksman]

I record 3 of the top 10 and 9 of the top 25. In my house total it is 6 of the top 10 and 13 of the top 25.

[dswallow]

I record 8 of the top 10; 15 of the top 25 here.

[Mavrick22]

We record 6 of the top 25.

1. Grey's Anatomy

4. House
5. Heroes

9. Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
10. ER

21. Las Vegas

[Mabes]

Grey's Anatomy number 1? I've never seen it, I'll have to try it. Is it the number 1 show on TV?

[cherry ghost]

Looking at TiVo's top recorded shows, Studio 60 is number 9.

So the percentage is probably significantly higher, as most of the other top 10 shows are also top 10-20 shows in the ratings.

http://www3.tivo.com/tivo-tco/top25.do?show25=seasonpass

Where's Lost and what was #3 previously but now out of the top 25?

[Alfer]

Grey's Anatomy number 1? I've never seen it, I'll have to try it. Is it the number 1 show on TV?

Have you been living under a rock??? :p

[DougF]

Eight of the top 25 for us. I only watch five of them. Well, it will be six whenever I get around to starting "Heroes". I've been saving them since the beginning just waiting for some free time to watch.

[ced6]

8 of the top 10 (not Oprah or Grey's Anatomy)

14 of the top 25

I'm not counting My Name is Earl even though I have a season pass, since it conflicts with 2 other shows I watch and thus isn't actually recorded.

[Jonathan_S]

I record 4 of the top 25
1 Grey's Anatomy
3 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
9 Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
23 Medium

Also recording #5 Heroes but I haven't actually watched any yet.

(Used to watch at one point but no longer do)
2 Desperate Housewives
7 CSI: Miami
18 Without a Trace
21 Las Vegas

[MegaHertz67]

Wow are we couch potatoes. We record 18 of the top 22. And we are completely caught up on 13 of them.

1 Grey's Anatomy
2 Desperate Housewives
3 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
4 House
5 Heroes
6 Survivor: Cook Islands
7 CSI: Miami
9 Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
10 ER
11 Nip/Tuck
12 Boston Legal
13 Prison Break
15 My Name Is Earl
17 Family Guy
18 Without a Trace
19 Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
21 Las Vegas
22 CSI: NY

[MegaHertz67]

9/12 for me, but my TiVo viewing counts for Nielson.
How does the Neilson thing work in your household?
Do you have a diary or a box?
How are shows that you record get counted?
Could I ask more questions?

[Magnolia88]

Where's Lost and what was #3 previously but now out of the top 25?

Something sketchy is going on there.

I thought for sure that Lost was #3 the last time I checked that list. And it was a new episode last week, right? There is no way that Medium gets TiVoed more than Lost. I think TiVo goofed or something weird happened because I don't think that many people canceled their SP for Lost in one week.

[PJO1966]

How does the Neilson thing work in your household?
Do you have a diary or a box?
How are shows that you record get counted?
Could I ask more questions?


They called me and asked if I would approve having them access my viewing habits from TiVo. I said yes. I don't have to do a thing, it all happens in the background.

[balboa dave]

Who knew we had so many closet avengers fans.Define "closet." Because to me, that's a snide reference to something people are afraid of admitting to in public, and that is just not the case.

[TAsunder]

Define "closet." Because to me, that's a snide reference to something people are afraid of admitting to in public, and that is just not the case.

Alright, I stand corrected on the avengers. Replace it with... dobie gillis? I dunno. Hopefully we can all agree anyone who likes full house is probably a closet full house fan then, right...? No?

I watch 7 of the top 25, but agree that there's no way lost is not one of the most recorded shows.

[MegaHertz67]

They called me and asked if I would approve having them access my viewing habits from TiVo. I said yes. I don't have to do a thing, it all happens in the background.
Coooool...you have power.

[DreadPirateRob]

We Tivo 12 of the top 25 shows, and 7 of the top 10 (no DH, CSI:Miami, or ER, although I had an ER season pass until this summer). I used to watch DH and Las Vegas, but no longer.

[PJO1966]

Coooool...you have power.


It just makes me happy that my viewing habits (supposedly) matter.

[murgatroyd]

Four of the top 10, five of the top 25 here:

1 Grey's Anatomy
3 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
4 House
9 Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip
16 Dancing With the Stars

We have nuked our SP for CSI: NY (#22) this season. Just can't stand watching Gary Sinise go to waste week after week.

Jan

[bicker]

Is Studio 60's cancellation still "imminent"? Have we redefined what the word "imminent" means? :)

[Amnesia]

Kristin from E! Online reports (http://www.eonline.com/gossip/kristin/blog/index.jsp?uuid=c592e2f9-63db-429d-b860-a5d9c89787ff) that NBC has given Studio 60 a full season order...

[Lee L]

Is Studio 60's cancellation still "imminent"? Have we redefined what the word "imminent" means? :)


Well, it seemed imminent when the thread was started. Maybe the OP can request a mod to change the title?

[wprager]

Is Studio 60's cancellation still "imminent"? Have we redefined what the word "imminent" means? :)

No, but perhaps its [i]cancellaiton[i] is, though.

Well, it seemed imminent when the thread was started. Maybe the OP can request a mod to change the title?

I concur, even if not for the same reason. :)

[Gunnyman]

<Borat> Looks like Studio 60 is cancelled <pause> NOT!</Borat>

[Lee L]

<Borat> Looks like Studio 60 is cancelled <pause> NOT!</Borat>


Or <Borat> Studio 60 is not cancelled. </Borat> ;)

[Gunnyman]

Great success! High Five!

[bicker]

No, but perhaps its [i]cancellaiton[i] is, though.I doubt they'd cancel the program immediately after greenlighting it for the rest of the season.

[drew2k]

I doubt they'd cancel the program immediately after greenlighting it for the rest of the season.I believe you failed to catch the joke. (Note the emphasis on the misspelling.)

[bicker]

Ah. Got it now.

[LoadStar]

Ah. Got it now.

Besides, this is an old thread from when FOX News erroneously announced that it would be canceled. There are (multiple) other newer threads announcing the renewal. Not sure why this thread got bumped.