Los Angeles, CA – With Nielsen now providing competitive multi-platform primetime data to subscribers through its Streaming Content Ratings, broadcast networks are gaining valuable insights into their shows’ viewership across various platforms. One notable standout is the ABC series “High Potential,” which has seen a significant boost in its rankings when streaming viewership is taken into account, jumping to the No. 1 spot among adults 18-49.
As of November 21, with six episodes aired, “High Potential” was averaging a 0.57 rating in the 18-49 demo based on live+7 data. However, when factoring in streaming on platforms like Hulu, the show’s rating saw a substantial increase to 2.33, a 309% surge that highlights the impact of streaming on viewership numbers in today’s television landscape.
The trend of improved multi-platform 18-49 ratings extends beyond “High Potential,” with other ABC series like “Abbott Elementary” and “9-1-1” also experiencing significant lifts when streaming is considered. This shift reflects a broader industry shift towards recognizing the importance of streaming in capturing a more accurate picture of a show’s performance.
Ari Goldman, senior VP of content strategy and scheduling at ABC, highlighted the inadequacy of live-plus-same-day numbers in fully capturing the success of scripted programming. He emphasized the growing significance of streaming platforms like Hulu in driving viewership and engagement with content, signaling a shift in how networks assess a show’s performance.
These changes are visible across various networks, with shows like Fox’s “Bob’s Burgers” and CBS’s “Tracker” and “Matlock” also experiencing notable increases in viewership when streaming numbers are included. The data suggests that streaming is becoming an essential component in evaluating a show’s popularity and reach in today’s media landscape.
With the continued evolution of how viewers consume content, the industry is witnessing a paradigm shift in how success is measured in the television space. As networks adapt to these changing dynamics, the role of streaming platforms in shaping viewer preferences and engagement is becoming increasingly evident, reshaping traditional metrics of success in the industry.