Hollywood Breakdown
Audiences Showing Up for Fall TV
In the age of cable, DVRs and streaming services, the idea of a fall TV season might seem dated. But this year, the broadcast networks are showing they still have some kick as plenty of viewers are tuning in to sample new shows.
By Kim Masters • • 3m ListenBroadcast networks are playing a scheduling chess game trying to grab viewers for their new fall shows. ABC has worked for years to find a show that pairs well with their hit comedy Modern Family. This year they've opted to follow it with the new show Black-ish, which drew a strong sampling in its opening week. CBS used a similar strategy with the show Madame Secretary, placing it after the always popular football on Sunday night. Even NBC's Mysteries of Laura, which has been slammed by critics, did alright following The Voice. Fox's Gotham also had a strong premier, but another Fox show, Red Band Society, didn't see the same success. The show about kids living in a hospital's pediatric ward may be one of the first to be cut this fall season.
