How TiVo Can Save Your Show

Replay numbers will give huge boost to many scripted shows
By Kevin Spak,  Newser Staff
Posted Oct 1, 2007 11:16 AM CDT
How TiVo Can Save Your Show
Marjorie Bayer and her daughters demonstrate today's multimedia lifestyle with their high-speed, fiber optic Internet and phone services at their home in Massapequa, New York. The Bayers were recently named the one millionth Verizon FiOS family. Marjorie relies on FiOS services for planning trips and...   (Associated Press)

If video killed the radio star, then TiVo might be the salvation of your favorite bad show. Nielson will include DVR playback numbers in this season's ratings, the LA Times reports, which will mean big boosts for some—like CBS’ “Big Bang Theory,” up 13% on playback—and the re-appearance of the coveted 18-49 demographic.

TV execs initially feared TiVo, but came around when they realized the device could build audiences, particularly among younger viewers—median audience age crept to 53 last season for live TV. So far, scripted shows are seeing the biggest bump, numbers they need to defend timeslots from cheaper reality series, whose contest-oriented twists viewers would rather see live. (More television stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X