The TV Ratings Guide’s Syndication Ratings Database

The Ratings Junkie Thursday, December 31, 2020

The Masked Dancer Ratings (Season 1, Winter 2021)

The Ratings Junkie Thursday, December 31, 2020

Tuesday Cable Ratings 12/29/20: College Football Bests NBA and Curse of Oak Island for Nightly Victory, The Situation Room Leads Cable News as Fox News Ratings Woes Continue

Below are the top 25 programs on cable on Tuesday, 12/29/20. Items of note include College Football on ESPN, The Situation Room on CNN, and NBA on TNT.

(Note: Click any show with its name in green or blue to be taken to its page in the TV Ratings Guide Cable Ratings Database.)

Wednesday TV Ratings 12/30/20: NBC Leads the Night with One Chicago Encores, Young Sheldon Repeat Is #1 Program (UPDATED)


Preliminary Analysis: With all telecasts on the roster being repeats, NBC's 'One Chicago' lineup (0.4/0.4/0.4) took a fairly comfortable lead. Although CBS's 'Young Sheldon' encore (0.5) bested them, the Tiffany network went lower with repeats of 'Mom' (0.4), 'SEAL Team' (0.3), and 'SWAT' (0.3). Fox had a solid 'Masked Dancer' encore (0.4) and a '9-1-1' repeat (0.3). ABC had repeats of 'The Goldbergs' (0.4), 'American Housewife' (0.3), and an anemic 'Conners' mini-marathon (0.3/0.2/0.2/0.2). The CW went with 'Heroes on the Front Line' (0.1) and 'Dog of the Year' (0.0).

Final Update: The repeat of The Goldberg (-0.1) adjusted down.

Finally Growing Up Season 1 Episode 2: The Next Step (Writer’s Pick)


CHRIS, JULIAN, and DREW are sitting in the living room, facing one another.

JULIAN
Get a job.

DREW
I can’t get a job, I’m 10.

CHRIS
He was talking to me. And who’s hiring teenagers right now?

JULIAN
Pharmacies.

CHRIS
You think I know how to make medication?

JULIAN
Nope.

CHRIS
Then how would I be able to work in a pharmacy.

JULIAN
Entertain the people in line.

CHRIS
What now?

JULIAN
Uncle Josh and Uncle Andrew did it for a little while in a kids’ doctor’s office.

CHRIS
That’s—

JULIAN
It’s more tame than you’re thinking.

CHRIS
I’ll have to trust you there. And no, I’m not getting a job as someone who entertains people in line. Plus, everyone just stays in their cars now and drives to the window like they’re getting a burger.

DREW
Or 20.

CHRIS
That’s not nice.

DREW
It’s true.

JULIAN
Not exactly. Speaking of which, maybe there are jobs out there where you can cook burgers?

CHRIS
I can’t even cook for ourselves! Also everyone’s looking to hire experienced chefs to cook the burgers.

DREW
You’re an experienced chef.

CHRIS
What makes you think that?

DREW
You made breakfast today.

CHRIS
I made cereal, and even then I accidentally put milk in it.

JULIAN
Um...what do you usually put in it?

CHRIS
Apple juice.

DREW
Sounds disgusting.

CHRIS
Tastes it too.

JULIAN
Sometimes you make no sense to me.

CHRIS
Eating it with milk is good. We have no money so to make sure I don’t overeat I make it as worse as I possibly can.

DREW
That’s actually smart. And also sad.

JULIAN
That’s what happens when we have no money and Chris has no job.

CHRIS
I’m also in school, remember.

JULIAN
Aren’t you on mute the whole time now that we’re all taking classes in our pajamas under the kitchen table?

CHRIS
I’m on mute. Not sure about the under the kitchen table part.

JULIAN
Does the teacher see you?

CHRIS
No, we all pick out profile images that actually show puppets.

DREW
That’s weird.

CHRIS
Right?

JULIAN
Get a job and bring your computer into work with you!

CHRIS
Then I’d get fired for going to school while at work.

JULIAN
You don’t even want to try it?

CHRIS
No way.

JULIAN
Then we’ll have no money.

CHRIS
I have an idea.

DREW
What is it?

CHRIS
Are you thinking what I’m thinking?

DREW
Probably not.

CHRIS
I’m not thinking anything. Say your idea.

DREW
Doesn’t Aunt Catherine have a ton of money?

CHRIS
She’s being sarcastic when she says that.

DREW
But she’s marrying rich, right?

CHRIS
I don’t think his name is Rich.

DREW
Whatever his name is, I think we need to try to make a little deal with him.

JULIAN
We have to try that.

Monday Cable Ratings 12/28/20: The Situation Room Tops Cable News, NFL Leads the Night, His Dark Materials Rises for Finale

 

Below are the top 25 programs on cable on Monday, 12/28/20. Items of note include the finale of His Dark Materials on HBO, NFL on ESPN, and Below Deck on Bravo.

(Note: Click any show with its name in yellow or blue to be taken to its page in the TV Ratings Guide Cable Ratings Database.)

Sunday Cable Ratings 12/27/20: Power Book II: Ghost Rises, Your Honor Slips Further, Down 90 Day Fiancé Remains on Top

Below are the top 25 programs on cable on Sunday, 12/27/20. Items of note include Your Honor on Showtime, Power Book II: Ghost on Starz, and 90 Day Fiancé on TLC.
(Note: Click any show with its name in orange to be taken to its page in the TV Ratings Guide Cable Ratings Database.)

Saturday Cable Ratings 12/26/20: NFL Dominates, College Football Also Strong

Below are the top 25 programs on cable on Saturday, 12/26/20. Items of note include NFL on NFL Network, and College Basketball on ESPN, and CNN Newsroom on CNN.

(Note: Click the name of any show with its title in red to be taken to its page in the TV Ratings Guide Cable Ratings Database.)

Tuesday TV Ratings 12/29/20: The Year 2020 Ties To Tell the Truth Repeat for First, Tell Me a Story Ends Steady (UPDATED)



Preliminary Analysis: ABC took the lead on another quiet evening with a repeat of game show 'To Tell the Truth' (0.5) and the Robin Roberts-hosted recap of the year (0.5). 'The Year' actually beat out what 2019's edition garnered (0.4) while 'To Tell the Truth' bested its last original episode (0.4). CBS had a sturdy set of repeats in the form of 'NCIS' (0.4), 'FBI' (0.4), and 'FBI: Most Wanted' (0.4). NBC had an encore of 'The Wall' (0.4) and a double dose of 'Nurses' (0.3/0.2). Fox remained low with repeats of 'The Resident' (0.2) and 'Prodigal Son' (0.2) while The CW aired 'Popstar's Best of 2020' (0.1) and a steady 'Tell Me a Story' finale (0.1).

Finals Update: Repeats of 'To Tell the Truth' (0.6, +0.1), 'The Wall' (0.5, +0.1), and 'The Resident' (0.3, +0.1) adjusted up.

Finally Back Home Season 1 Episode 3: The Makeup Artist (Writer’s Pick)



[JOSH and ANDREW walk into the doctors’ office.]

RECEPTIONIST
As I told you already, you’re too old to see a doctor here.

ANDREW
I know Doris, we work here.

RECEPTIONIST
How did you know my name is Doris?

ANDREW
From all the times you’ve answered the phone with “Doctor Whiskers’ office, this is Doris”.

JOSH
Also about that, I saw a cat back there the other day.

DORIS
Yeah that confuses a lot of people. Doctor Whiskers is not a cat. Doctor Whiskers just likes brining James to work every now and then.

JOSH
So I guess we’ll start now. Hopefully we don’t scare any kids this time.

DORIS
Oh that reminds me, your makeup artist will be here shortly.

ANDREW
Josh did you order a makeup artist?

JOSH
No. This must be some mistake.

DORIS
Nobody told you? To celebrate Black History Month we’re going to—

ANDREW
No.

DORIS
You didn’t even let me finish!

JOSH
He didn’t have to. That’s disgusting.

DORIS
Putting up educational posters with facts is disgusting now? Racist.

ANDREW
I don’t think we’re on the same page here.

DORIS
Yeah so anyways the makeup artist is going to make you look like clowns.

JOSH
How does this have any relation to Black History Month?

DORIS
It doesn’t.

JOSH
Ok...why did you tell us about that then?

DORIS
In case Doctor Whiskers gives you a pop quiz.

ANDREW
That can happen?

DORIS
Yeah he gives them all the time.

CUT to FRAN and BRIAN at the mattress store. FRAN is standing outside next to MR. FROG, the mascot.

FRAN
Do you ever get bored, Mr. Frog?

FRAN (after a pause)
What made you decide on a mattress store?

FRAN (after another pause)
Guess you’re not in the talking mood today. I’ll be quiet now.

BOB
Fran, can I see you for a second?

FRAN
Can you do it here? Mr. Frog might need help.

BOB
He can wait. I need you to help your husband out with something.

FRAN
Oh! Is he alright?

BOB
Wouldn’t know. He’s asking for you though. Follow me.

FRAN and BOB walk to the back section of the store where BRIAN is working.

BRIAN
So turns out I double-booked.

FRAN
What do you mean?

BRIAN
I’m supposed to be in two places at once. Can you cover for me while I’m gone?

FRAN
I don’t think you’re allowed to do that!

BOB
Also you do know I’m your manager and I can fire you, right?

BRIAN
It won’t take long.

BOB
Go ahead then, but don’t expect to be paid for that time. Not like the store’s busy today, only three people so far. Usually we’re at four by now.

BRIAN
Thanks boss, I’ll be back soon.

BRIAN walks out of the store and into his car.

CUT to JOSH and ANDREW at the doctor’s office.

ANDREW
...and that’s how George Washington became President.

CHILD
That was boring.

JOSH
Why did you ask then?

CHILD
For my school assignment. Got everything you said recorded, thanks!

ANDREW
You sound perfectly fine for someone who claims to have strep throat.

CHILD
Yeah I lied. The paper was due today and I didn’t feel like writing it.

JOSH
I think the less we know the better.

DORIS
Hey, your makeup artist is here!

CHILD [laughing]
You called for a makeup artist? I have to see this.

ANDREW
We didn’t call for one. Excuse us though.

JOSH and ANDREW approach DORIS to greet the makeup artist.

MAKEUP ARTIST
Sorry I’m a little late, got caught up at my new job. Someone needs to put a clock in that place, I forgot to put my watch on today.

ANDREW
Brian?!

BRIAN
Hey, Andrew! How’s the job going?

ANDREW
Well for one you’re here as the makeup artist that we didn’t know about until today.

BRIAN
Just making ends meet.

JOSH
By making people look like clowns?

BRIAN
You’re actually my first clients. Haven’t even practiced once.

JOSH
Sounds promising.

BRIAN
I guess now’s as good a time as ever.

ANDREW
Make it quick. If you have any anesthesia that would be great.

DORIS
Nope. Good luck.

DORIS walks away.

BRIAN takes JOSH and ANDREW to a back area to attempt to make them look like clowns.

JOSH
You are inescapable, aren’t you?

BRIAN
I can’t help it. How was I supposed to know this is the pediatrician’s office you work at?

ANDREW
By asking us.

BRIAN
We agreed to stay out of one another’s business.

JOSH
This would’ve been a valid exception.

BRIAN
My bad. Anyways, my work here is done.

JOSH and ANDREW look at themselves in the mirror and are taken aback by the reflections.

ANDREW
Brian, you did a great job. Or does that mean you did a bad job?

BRIAN
Don’t know. I need to go back to work now, good luck with the kids.

BRIAN exits. JOSH and ANDREW enter the waiting room. The child they were talking to before laughs, while the others scream. DOCTOR WHISKERS lets out a high-pitched shriek.

ANDREW
So we scared the doctor this time too.

JOSH
Hopefully next time is better.

Monday TV Ratings 12/28/20: NFL Leads Against Minimal Competition, The Neighborhood Encore Takes Second (UPDATED)


Preliminary Analysis: ABC comfortably took the lead with its showing of the 'Bills v. Patriots' NFL game (1.2), the broadcast matched the preliminary rating that the December 7th game managed. CBS had solid repeats of 'The Neighborhood' (0.5), 'Bob Hearts Abishola' (0.4), 'Let's Make a Deal' (0.3), and 'Bull' (0.3). NBC aired 'Dolly Parton's Christmas of Many Colors' (0.3) and a 'Weakest Link' encore (0.3). Fox's 'LA's Finest' (0.2) inched down to a new series low, beaten out by the '9-1-1' repeat (0.3) that came before it. The CW went with repeats of 'Whose Line' (0.1/0.1) and 'Penn & Teller' (0.1).

Final Update: ABC's NFL game (1.51, +0.3) and repeats of 'The Neighborhood' (0.56, +0.1), 'Dolly Parton' (0.35, +0.1), '9-1-1' (0.35, +0.1), and 'Let's Make a Deal' (0.37, +0.1) all adjusted up. The original episode of 'LA's Finest' (0.27, +0.1) also adjusted up.

Friday Cable Ratings 12/25/20: NBA More Than Doubles NFL, A Christmas Story Marathon Stays Strong, Frosty and Rudolph Again Have Solid Nights

Below are the top 25 programs on cable on Friday, 12/25/20. Items of note include A Christmas Story on TNT and TBS, NBA on ESPN, and NFL on NFL Network.

(Note: Click the name of any show with its title in purple or blue to be taken to its page in the TV Ratings Guide Cable Ratings Database.)

NCIS: Los Angeles S12E06 Review

If The Fates Allow is NCISLA’s Christmas episode and in keeping with seasonal episodes of recent years, it dispenses with the sickly saccharine and instead offers a multitude of bitter-sweet moments. The episode is written by Andrew Bartels who has carved a niche in Callen-centred storylines, but also drives all characters forward, and so expectations are set. The opening sees an African-American husband and wife, Raymond and Paula Lewis, merrily driving at night until they’re stopped by a white border patrol officer. There is immediate concern for their safety, (given recent tensions in America following the death of George Floyd), that the scene will degenerate into an unprovoked shooting, and indeed the officer does pull his weapon. Thankfully Bartels does not venture down this route, instead focusing on the drugs hidden in Paula’s oxygen tanks. Post opening credits and the subplots are set up for the main characters. Kensi and Deeks’ dream of buying a house is at risk now Deeks’ position at NCIS has been terminated. Sam’s teenage daughter Kamran returns from military academy and Nell is preparing for Eric’s first appearance this season. The case forms the backdrop for all this after Hetty wrangles the it away from the DEA and assigns it to Callen, as he and Raymond were once foster brothers.

Marietta Season 2 Episode 12 - Thelma & Louise Died, Mom! (Writer’s Pick)

Marietta Season 2, Episode 12
Thelma & Louise Died, Mom!

Thursday Cable Ratings 12/24/20: A Christmas Story Dominates Christmas Eve; Frosty, Rudolph & Santa Claus Also Strong on Freeform; OutFront Leads Cable News

Below are the top 25 programs on cable on Thursday, 12/24/20. Items of note include the A Christmas Story on TBS and TNT, Frosty the Snowman on Freeform, and Erin Burnett OutFront on CNN.

(Note: Click the names of the shows written in purple or blue to be taken to their pages in the TV Ratings Guide Cable Database.)

Sunday TV Ratings 12/27/20: The Masked Dancer Has OK Premiere, NFL Easily Leads Repeat-Filled Night (UPDATED)


Preliminary Analysis: 'Masked Singer' spinoff 'The Masked Dancer' (1.2) started its run in passable territory on Fox. Fueled by 'NFL Overrun' (4.1) and 'The OT' (2.9) in the 7pm hour, the reality series shed nearly 60% of its lead-in but was essentially on-par with what 'Simpsons' did during its last NFL night [a 1.3 out of a 3.0 OT]. The series will transition into its Wednesday timeslot on January 6th. Fox finished their night with a 'Winter Preview' (0.5) and 'Family Guy' encore (0.3). NBC remained strong with its showing of the 'Titans v. Packers' NFL game (3.8) and 'Football Night in America' (1.5/3.2). With NFL assistance out of the picture, CBS's '60 Minutes' (0.7) fell significantly from last week's episode (1.6). The newsmagazine staple led into repeats of 'NCIS: LA' (0.3), 'New Orleans' (0.3), and 'NCIS' (0.3). ABC had a solid pair of 'AFV' repeats (0.5/0.4) but saw less success with a duo of 'Supermarket Sweep' encores (0.3/0.2). 'The Outpost' (0.0) inched down on the CW, the series led out of a repeat of 'Penn & Teller: Fool Us' (0.1).

Finals Update: 'NFL Overrun' (5.53, +1.4), 'The OT' (3.12, +0.2), 'The Masked Dancer' (1.44, +0.2), 'AFV' repeat (0.57, +0.1), 'NCIS: LA' repeat (0.36, +0.1), 'NFL: Titans v. Packers' (4.94, +1.1), and both 'Supermarket Sweep' repeats (0.36, +0.1; 0.28, +0.1) adjusted up. 'Football Night in America' (0.90, -0.6; 2.54, -0.7) and '60 Minutes' (0.65, -0.1) adjusted down.

Finally Apart Season 1 Episode 4: The Concert (Writer’s Pick)



CATHERINE [thinking to herself]
Time to get out of this apartment and head over to the Britney concert. Can't believe I'm doing this sober, but apparently that kind of stuff costs more than $1 here.

CATHERINE exits the apartment and goes to the concert. She finds her seat.

CATHERINE (thinking to herself)
Wonder if anyone I know will be here. Those museum people won't be here, right? Eh who am I kidding, I'll just pretend to not recognize them.

A man, NATE, late 30s, approaches her and sits in the seat next to her.

CATHERINE
You gonna finish that soda?

NATE
Uh huh.

CATHERINE
You gonna finish those drugs?

NATE
Don't have any.


CATHERINE
And I don't need any.

NATE
OK then...you an undercover cop?


CATHERINE
Nah, just here to have fun.

NATE
Yeah me too. Not a Britney fan by any means, I just like going to these concerts and laughing.


CATHERINE
You suck.

NATE
Never tried to make you like me.

CATHERINE
You got me all wrong. I like people who suck.

NATE
That's weird.


CATHERINE
I know.

NATE
You want to get out of here together right now?


CATHERINE
Hell no. But after.

[They both watch the concert, NATE laughing and CATHERINE singing along loudly.]

NATE
Anyone ever tell you that you can sing?


CATHERINE
Nope.

NATE
Figures, because you can't.


CATHERINE
Thanks.

NATE
Come on let's leave. 


CATHERINE
Alright, I'll book a driver right now.

NATE
Somebody's rich.

CATHERINE
Nah, I just don't have a car.

NATE
Oh. You only here for the night?

CATHERINE
Nope, I just moved here and have no money.

NATE pulls out a 1 dollar bill.

NATE
Take this, it's the least I could do.


CATHERINE [laughing]
Yeah, it actually is. 

NATE
You have family around?

CATHERINE
Nah, no family.

NATE
Me neither.


CATHERINE and NATE go to NATE's three-story, five-bedroom house.

NATE
I'm pretty rich, by the way. That a dealbreaker for you?


CATHERINE
You kidding? That's a dealmaker! 

NATE
Cool, I'll make us some coffee.


CATHERINE
Finally, haven't had one of those in weeks.

NATE
So I assume you're just getting yourself off the ground here?


CATHERINE
Yeah, I guess. I didn't really put much thought into this move actually. 

NATE
Don't worry about it, you'll find your way. You can stay here all you want.


CATHERINE
OK, thanks. I'll think about it.

NCIS: Los Angeles S12E05 Review

 


Experienced episode writer and master of darkness Frank Military wrote himself into his latest episode as a sick sociopath who’s obsessed with Kensi.  In ‘Raising the Dead’ he plays David Kessler who Kensi originally arrested in 2008, the case bringing her to the attention of Hetty and into the Office of Special Projects.  Military has written a number of Kensi-centric episodes, most notably Spoils of War (S5), An Unlocked Mind (S7), The Silo (S9) and Better Angels (S10), some focusing on her strengths, others seeking to delve into how men seek power over women.

 

The cold open sees law enforcement pursuing two escaped convicts, Kessler and Randy Sinclair, a former CIA operative who plotted to assassinate the president. Kessler splits from Sinclair and is caught, a move which seems and is deliberate. Sinclair is a dangerous man and Kessler tells the Secret Service he will only reveal Sinclair’s location to Kensi.

 

 At the start of the episode Kensi is in a positive frame of mind.  Her previous reticence about making an offer on a house has been replaced with a mindset that if they’re going into debt, they may as well make it worthwhile and also embark on fertility treatment. It is Deeks’ turn to offer words of caution, attempting to place a limit on how far into debt they should venture. It was good to see Deeks back in the bull pen, even if it was to just to pack up his belongings. It also ensured he was in the right place when Kensi was called into Ops to receive a call on a secure line. 

 

Here on start the mind games. Deeks is aware that Kessler is obsessed with Kensi (he sent her Christmas cards each year - reminiscent of Janvier and Callen). Deeks, against protocol but very much in character, remains on comms via his earwig and also makes his way into ops. Deeks has killed for a woman in danger, water boarded a cleric to try and rescue Kensi and of course her passion for her career almost caused him to end their relationship. In Raising the Dead, he placed Fatima (who is running this case in Ops) in an awkward position when he refused to leave. Her lack of authority, and Deeks’ of respect resulted in Fatima telling Callen, who threatened to have Deeks dragged out by fellow agents.

 

Kensi fights her own internal battles as she faces Kessler.  He is a creepy freak, arrogant and in love with himself. In his cell, Kensi first sees him topless and doing press ups. His reveals his mission is to hunt Kensi down, have sex with her and kill her. Despite Kensi’s best efforts, he holds the power in most of their conversations.  His mind games eat away at her - from Kessler’s deduction that she’s married to his appraisal of her body shape determining she’s doesn’t have kids; her micro-expression giving away this source of pain. At one point he says ‘touché’ which of course is Deeks’ ‘thing, and clearly hits a nerve. His personal and blunt comments reveal Kensi’s poker face and negotiating skills need some work!

 

 Sam and Rountree are in the field to assist the FBI in tracking Sinclair. They quickly split from the FBI after receiving patronising and arrogant comments from FBI Agent Rudolph, leading Sam and Rountree to discuss racism. The triggering comment was Rudolph calling them ‘urban’ and how to interpret this. Does urban mean they’re from LA or does it infer they’re from the ‘hood? Rountree lets the comments wash over him, choosing not to react and preferring to be the bigger man.  He didn’t even comment when Rudolph stated that FBI agents have special tracker training; Rountree of course being former FBI and Sam, a former SEAL. The message is to move forward and be better than them.

 

There is very little Nell in this episode which leaves Fatima to run ops and Callen to take charge. He has Kessler’s ex-girlfriend/victim Michelle, in the boatshed and is on comms with Kensi , and a camera feed into the prison.  He demonstrates his experience with  negotiating decisions that unfortunately expose Kensi’s inexperience. Another interesting dynamic is built between Callen and Michelle, as he challenges her victim status; citing rumours she was in charge of bringing young girls into their circle, and querying why Kessler sold other girls yet kept her. At one point she asks Callen if he’s sure Kessler is back in prison, a sentence which takes on another meaning upon a second viewing.

 

The thread running through the season to date is Deeks’ position at OSP. Earlier scenes show he is reluctant to leave the team - he still wears his earwig and is finally packing up his personal belongings.  Nell’s only appearance of the episode is to tell Deeks his position is officially terminated and he’s too old to attend FLETC and cannot become an NCIS agent. Hetty has tried everything and it is difficult to see how this scenario will be resolved and he rejoins the team. For the time being he is essentially restricted to the bar.

 

This knowledge and the sadness and confusion generated, signals the start of the case’s conclusion and the unravelling of Kessler’s fascinating master plan.  He is clever and has connections in Washington (with videos and pictures of people in power), including the President whom he knew as a congressman.  He wrangles a call with the President and reveals to Kensi that Sinclair never left the area. This twist was frustrating as Kensi and the team did not catch on quickly until Kessler explained in full.  The best twist came at the end when the team receive news that Kessler has been released from prison after getting a presidential executive order for undisclosed national security issues.  He played the team from start to finish, as did Michelle who it turns out, is in love with Kessler. Callen was sceptical of her playing the full-on victim card... Kessler is hell bent on revenge and Kensi’s life is now in danger.

 

Raising the Dead follows the higher standards set last week and again feels like a normal episode. The plot runs smoothly and at a decent pace with the team working three different angles, in three different locations. This separation is integral to the case and does not feel forced. The main frustration is how Kessler succeeds in getting inside Kensi’s head. Whether she admits it or not, Kessler has the power throughout most of their interactions.  He is suitably creepy and manipulative, perverted and deranged, and his threat to Kensi should play out later in the season.


A Virtual Scrawl

Saturday TV Ratings 12/26/20: SNL Vintage Leads Abysmal Night, NCIS: New Orleans Repeat Wins in Total Viewers (UPDATED)


Preliminary Analysis: NBC's 'SNL Vintage' (0.4) topped a silent evening, the 2018 episode that aired featured host Jason Momoa and musical guest Mumford & Sons. The peacock network began their night with repeats of 'Ellen's Game of Games' (0.3) and 'The Wall' (0.3). ABC had passable encores of 'To Tell the Truth' (0.3), 'Shark Tank' (0.3), and 'The Rookie' (0.2). CBS was close behind with repeats of 'NCIS: New Orleans' (0.3) and '48 Hours' (0.2/0.2). Fox had the only original broadcast of the night in the form of low-rated 'Boxing' (0.2).

Finals Update: All shows held their preliminary rating. 

The Bullpen Season 3 Episode 4: Ace-ing The National Anthem (Writer’s Pick)


MANNY, DEVIN, ACE, FELIX, ROBERT, and HARRY have all just stepped foot in the bullpen.

Friday TV Ratings 12/25/20: How the Grinch Stole Christmas Down from Christmas 2019, NBA Leads as WWE SmackDown Closely Follows (UPDATED)


Preliminary Analysis: ABC took the lead on Christmas night with their broadcast of the 'Mavericks v. Lakers' NBA game (1.1). That lead-in was used to boost a repeat of 'Black-ish' (0.7), pushing it higher than any original episode this season. Fox settled for second with a surprisingly strong edition of 'WWE Smackdown' (1.0), the wrestling series was up four-tenths from the 0.6 rating it garnered two weeks ago. NBC underwhelmed with a second showing of the cartoon 'Grinch' special (0.4) and the live-action feature film (0.5). Nonetheless, the peacock network's double-dose of 'Grinch' was enough to beat out encores of 'MacGyver' (0.3), 'Mangum PI' (0.3), and 'Blue Bloods' (0.3) on CBS. The CW remained below the major networks with the finale of 'Christmas Caroler Challenge' (0.1).

Finals Update: 'NBA: Mavericks v. Lakers' (+0.7) and 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas!' (+0.1) adjusted up.

Finally Together: The Christmas Season Episode 4: Christmas Day (Writer’s Pick)


FRAN
Thanks everyone for getting up early, it’s so nice to be back in my old church. Just a few more steps and we’re at the entrance!

BRIAN
Alright let’s get this over with so we can go back home and open presents. That gift swap yesterday barely went anywhere.

CHRIS
That’s not true, I got a really cool lamp!

DAVID
I didn’t know you liked lamps.

CHRIS
Sarcasm, Dad.

MARY
You never were good at picking up at that.

DAVID
Everything I do gets criticized now?

DREW
Fighting’s not going to get anyone anywhere.

JOSH [opening the door to the church]
Wow, it’s crowded in here. Are we sure we’re coming in at the right time?

BRIAN
What time is it?

MARY
9am.

BRIAN
Yeah, Mass should start any second now.

FRAN
It doesn’t look like we’re all going to be able to sit together. Why don’t we all split up into the groups we were in for dinner last night and meet back at the house when Mass is over?

BRITNEY
Yeah, and when exactly will that be?

FRAN
Nice try Britney. We’re all staying here the whole time.

NATE [to STEVE and DAISY]
Outsiders follow me, I think I see a spot in the back.

CHRIS
I think I see a spot over by the big piano.

BRITNEY 2
Unless you want to sing then I don’t think that’s a great idea. We’ll stand off to the side. Chris, Julian, and Britney, follow me.

ANDREW
I think I see an opening somewhere in the middle. William, Mary, and Drew, we’re in for an exciting time.

CATHERINE
Don’t think I see any more openings...

FRAN
There’s still an empty row front and center! We can sit there!

JOSH
Lucky us.

FRAN
Remember everyone, we meet back at the house right after Mass finishes.

[Cut to DAISY, STEVE, and NATE]

DAISY
I think the guy on the stage is staring at me. Is he into me?

STEVE
That guy’s called the altar man and he’s not allowed to marry until he’s 80, but he can have multiple girlfriends at a time.

NATE
That is not true at all. Daisy, with all due respect I’m pretty sure he’s not into you.

[Cut to BRITNEY, BRITNEY 2, JULIÁN, and CHRIS]

BRITNEY
OK so what’s our plan for how to get out of here?

BRITNEY 2
Wait for it to finish and then leave?

CHRIS
I know! We can ask for Communion early and leave after that!

JULIAN
That’s a terrible idea. But I think I know what we can do.

BRITNEY
Tell us.

JULIAN
Get up and leave. We’re further back in the church than anyone else we know. Nobody will even notice.

CHRIS
I’m kind of hungry. Who else is down for ditching this and going out to get pancakes?

BRITNEY
I’m down for the first part.

BRITNEY 2
How did I get caught up with all of you?

[BRITNEY, BRITNEY 2, JULIAN, and CHRIS get up and leave the church]

[Cut to WILLIAM, MARY, ANDREW, and DREW. MARY is singing loudly while the others are trying to contain their laughter. MARY stops after seeing their reactions.]

MARY
What’s so funny?

ANDREW
Oh nothing. Nothing at all.

DREW
Mom your singing is terrible.

MARY
I’m singing in God’s name! Sue me if there’s something wrong with that.

WILLIAM
As someone who is certified to sue other people, I’ll consider your request.

ANDREW
All I know is there better not be a singing competition in Fran’s games.

[Cut to DAVID, CATHERINE, FRAN, BRIAN, and JOSH]

FRAN
Wonderful seats.

BRIAN
You’ve said that six times now, we get it. And disagree.

CATHERINE
I typically like to not feel like the priest is staring at me the whole time.

JOSH
Yeah and that priest has already stopped Mass to yell at me personally before.

FRAN
That was 25 odd years ago.

JOSH
You’re thinking of a different time.

PRIEST (stopping Mass, looking directly at Josh)
Excuse me, but if you would like to talk there are plenty of exits. Those kids who were sitting in the back earlier got the message.

JOSH
Sorry Father.

BRIAN
It’s OK.

[Cut to WILLIAM, MARY, ANDREW, and DREW]

ANDREW
Is the priest yelling at Josh?

MARY
Looks it.

ANDREW
What should we do?

WILLIAM
Looks like he’s cutting off the Mass early because of this. So, leave, I guess. Come on everyone.

[Cut to DAVID, CATHERINE, FRAN, BRIAN, and JOSH]

JOSH
Father, I can’t believe I’m saying this but you can’t cut off Mass early!

BRIAN
I’m not...

JOSH
Not you!

FRAN
Christmas is ruined!

DAVID
Mom it’s not ruined, this is just an unexpected turn of events. Let’s just head back to the car and figure everything out.

[DAVID, CATHERINE, FRAN, BRIAN, and JOSH exit and drive back to the house. They walk inside.]

CATHERINE
Um, guys...Where is everyone?

FRAN
They must not be back yet, give it time.

[Cut to BRITNEY, BRITNEY 2, JULIAN, and CHRIS at a diner eating breakfast]

[Cut to DAISY, STEVE, and NATE on the side of the road with a broken down car]

[Cut to WILLIAM, MARY, ANDREW, and DREW locked inside the church with no one else around]

Thursday TV Ratings 12/24/20: It’s a Wonderful Life Easily Leads NBC to Victory on a Silent Christmas Eve Night (UPDATED)


Preliminary Analysis: On a noiseless Christmas Eve night, NBC took the lead with their annual broadcast of the classic 1946 film 'It's a Wonderful Life' (0.7). ABC's presentation of 'The Greatest Showman' (0.4) couldn't quite compete but was still the second-strongest telecast of the evening. The Hugh Jackman movie was followed by a pair of 'Prep & Landing' specials (0.3/0.3). CBS had repeats of 'Young Sheldon' (0.3), 'B Positive' (0.3), 'Mom' (0.2), 'The Unicorn' (0.2), and 'FBI' (0.3). Those were a good bit above Fox's 'The Resident' (0.2) and 'Prodigal Son' (0.1) encores. The CW aired repeats of 'iHeartRadio Jingle Ball' (0.1) and 'Whose Line' (0.1).

Finals Update: 'It's a Wonderful Life' (+0.1), 'The Greatest Showman' (+0.1), and repeats of 'Mom' (+0.1) and 'Young Sheldon' (+0.1) adjusted up.

Off Topic -- December 2020 (Facing the Music)

2020 has tested the patience of the world, and tested how loyal several are/were to their scripted shows.  Rather than lament on the events which changed things as we knew them, December is TVRG's gifting of music.  It does not have to be Christmas based (though it is welcome).  But rather, the folks in this thread are encouraged to give the gift of music to their fellow community.  Upload a video in the comments, and TVRG will be keeping track in the body of the thread.  We shall track and declare the following winners in December for the following honors:

Put Me In Season 2 Episode 18: Championship Game (SEASON FINALE) (Writer’s Pick)

 

Wednesday Cable Ratings 12/23/20: The Misery Index Rises for Christmas-Themed Finale, Seinfeld Festivus Episode Solid, Cuomo Prime Time Stays on Top in Cable News

Below are the top 25 programs on cable on Wednesday, 12/23/20. Items of note include the finale of The Misery Index on TBS, Anderson Cooper 360 on CNN, and Tucker Carlson Tonight on Fox News.

(Click the names of the shows written in teal or blue to be taken to their pages in the TV Ratings Guide Cable Database.)

Wednesday TV Ratings 12/23/20: The Great Christmas Light Fight Ends Down but Still Leads Alongside Santa Claus is Comin to Town (UPDATED)


Preliminary Analysis: The season finale of ABC's 'The Great Christmas Light Fight' (0.5) was the lone original on a silent night, shedding two-tenths from its previous outing. Despite the slippage, 'Light Fight' topped the night alongside an 8pm repeat of 'Santa Claus is Comin' to Town' (0.5). CBS was close behind with 'A Holly Dolly Christmas' (0.4) but saw diminishing results with 'Garth & Trisha Live!' (0.3) and a 'SWAT' repeat (0.2). NBC had a 'One Chicago' encore lineup (0.3/0.3/0.3) that matched Fox's 'I Can See Your Voice' repeat (0.3). The CW couldn't make any ratings noise with its 'Silent Night' special (0.0).

Finals Update: The Great Christmas Light Fight (+0.1) and Santa Claus is comin' to Town (+0.1) adjusted up. Silent Night - Song for the World (-0.1) adjusted town

Tuesday Cable Ratings 12/22/20: The Misery Index Nears Series Low, Clippers/Lakers NBA Game Dominates, Cuomo Prime Time Back to first In Cable News, Ingraham-Less Angle Leads Fox

Below are the top 25 programs on cable on Tuesday, 12/22/20. Items of note include The Misery Index on TBS, Cuomo Prime Time on CNN, and NBA on TNT.

(Note: Click any show with its name in green or blue to be taken to its page in the TV Ratings Guide Cable Ratings Database.)

SNL Throwback: The 10 Best Christmas Sketches of All Time

SNL always has great Christmas Sketches. They even have an annual Christmas special, An SNL Christmas. There's also a few Christmas DVDs. So SNL has had its fair share of funny Christmas episodes. Here, I'll count down my favorite Christmas sketches of recent years:

Tuesday TV Ratings 12/22/20: The Bachelorette and NEXT End Higher, SNL Christmas Repeat Ties First Airing (UPDATED)

Preliminary Analysis: ABC's 'The Bachelorette' (1.2) closed out in steady fashion, topping the night but trailing the 2.1 A18-49 rating it garnered for last season's finale. It led into a stable 10pm edition of 'Supermarket Sweep' (0.5). CBS had strong outings of 'The Price Is Right' (0.7) and 'Let's Make a Deal' (0.6), the former rose from its last installment while the latter held even. The Tiffany network capped things off with an encore of 'NCIS' (0.3). NBC went with holiday-themed repeats of 'The Voice' (0.4) and 'SNL' (0.5) while Fox had the 2-hour series finale of low-rated drama 'Next' (0.2). The John Slattery series held steady with its last episode. The CW had the 'Swamp Thing' series finale (0.1) and 'Tell Me a Story' (0.1).

Finals Update: 'The Bachelorette' (+0.2), 'The Price Is Right At Night' (+0.1), 'Let's Make a Deal Primetime' (+0.1), the repeat of 'The Voice Holiday Celebration' (+0.1), and 'NEXT' (+0.1) adjusted up.

College Season 3 Episode 5: Electoral College (Writer’s Pick)

Monday Cable Ratings 12/21/20: American Dad! Down for Christmas Special, Holiday Baking Championship Soars to Season High for Finale, Rachel Maddow Leads Cable News as Fox News Slump Continues

Below are the top 25 programs on cable on Monday, 12/21/20. Items of note include the American Dad! Christmas special on TBS, the finale of Holiday Baking Championship on Food Network, and the finale of Industry on HBO.

(Note: Click any show with its name in yellow or blue to be taken to its page in the TV Ratings Guide Cable Ratings Database.)

Prime Time Cable News Recap: Special Coverage Boosts Burnett and Cooper as Carlson and Hannity Lag Behind

The Ratings Junkie Tuesday, December 22, 2020

 

Sunday Cable Ratings 12/20/20: Cross-Country Christmas Strong for Countdown to Christmas Wrap-Up, Candy Land Finale, Power Book II: Ghost, Shameless and Your Honor All Slip

Below are the top 25 programs on cable on Sunday, 12/20/20. Items of note include Cross-Country Christmas on Hallmark, the finale of Candy Land on Food Network, and Your Honor on Showtime.
(Note: Click any show with its name in orange to be taken to its page in the TV Ratings Guide Cable Ratings Database.)

Saturday Cable Ratings 12/19/20: A Christmas Carousel Below-Average for Countdown to Christmas, NFL Dominates, Rudolph and Frosty Remain Strong on Freeform

Below are the top 25 programs on cable on Saturday, 12/19/20. Items of note include A Christmas Carousel on Hallmark, NFL on NFL Network, and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer on Freeform.

(Note: Click the name of any show with its title in red to be taken to its page in the TV Ratings Guide Cable Ratings Database.)

Monday TV Ratings 12/21/20: The Bachelorette Leads Against Minimal Competition from NBC, Fox and The CW, The Neighborhood Repeat Takes Second (UPDATED)

Preliminary Analysis: Of the few originals to air on a quiet Monday evening, ABC's 'The Bachelorette' (1.2) gained a tenth when compared to its previous installment. The reality staple was followed by a repeat of 'CMA Country Christmas' (0.4). CBS went with repeats of 'The Neighborhood' (0.5), 'Bob Hearts Abishola' (0.4), 'Kid of the Year' (0.2), and 'Bull' (0.2). NBC got similar results from encores of 'The Grinch Musical' (0.3) and 'Weakest Link' (0.3). Fox's 'Next' (0.2) held even in its move to the 8pm hour. The drama series will close out with a 2-hour series finale tonight. 'Cosmos: Possible Worlds' (0.2) wrapped up at 9, down a tenth from its last episode. The CW came in last with 'Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer' (0.1) and 'Greatest Holiday Commercials Countdown' (0.1).

Finals Update: Repeats of The Neighborhood (+0.1) and Bob Hearts Abishola (+0.1) adjusted up.

Marietta Season 1, Episode 10 - Marietta Christmas, Darling (Throwback)

Marietta Season 1, Episode 10
Marietta Christmas, Darling

Friday Cable Ratings 12/18/20: The Grinch Strong for Freeform, Raven’s Home Rises for Christmas Special, Fox News and MSNBC Drop Again

Below are the top 25 programs on cable on Friday, 12/18/20. Items of note include Raven's Home on Disney, The Grinch on Freeform, and Tucker Carlson Tonight on Fox News.

(Note: Click the name of any show with its title in purple or blue to be taken to its page in the TV Ratings Guide Cable Ratings Database.)

NCIS: Los Angeles S12E04 Review

Cash Flow, written by Kyle Harimoto, is the first episode of season twelve which felt like a normal episode.  There is bonding, banter, action and comedy, and running alongside the case of the week is a dive into the personal lives of both Callen and Anna, and Kensi and Deeks.  A healthy dose of ageism is thrown in for good measure, neatly linked in to the team’s investigation of a murdered Navy reservist, whose body was found in a warehouse during a burglary conducted by a know-it-all teen and her accomplices.

Sunday TV Ratings 12/20/20: Garth and Trisha Live! Disappoints while A Home for the Holidays Bombs, The Sound of Music Steady with 2019, NFL Drops (UPDATED)

Preliminary Analysis: NBC remained the dominant force on a night packed with encores, topping the evening with 'Football Night in America' (1.0/2.8) and the 'Browns v. Giants' NFL game (3.4). CBS's 'NFL Overrun' (4.4) slightly edged out the peacock network but they quickly plummeted from there. While '60 Minutes' (1.4) improved a good bit from last week, there was little interest for a 'Garth & Trisha' special (0.5) and even less for 'A Home for the Holidays' (0.2). On ABC, the annual broadcast of 'The Sound of Music' (0.6) matched what it garnered last year and outperformed the game show originals from last week (0.5/0.3/0.3). Fox had an NFL-inflated 'Simpsons' repeat (1.0) and a 'Bob's Burgers' encore (0.5) in the 7pm hour but went incredibly low with a pair of 'Moody' repeats (0.3/0.2) at 8. 'Bob's' (0.3) and 'Family Guy' (0.3) picked up the slack a bit at 9. The CW had a Christmas-themed 'Masters of Illusion' repeat (0.1) and an original edition of 'The Outpost' (0.1). The latter gained a precious tenth when compared to last week's putrid performance.

Finals Update: CBS's 'NFL Overrun' (5.6, +1.1), '60 Minutes' (1.6, +0.2), 'Garth & Trisha Live' (0.6, +0.1), and 'A Home for the Holidays' (0.3, +0.1) all adjusted up. On Fox, the 'Simpsons' repeat (1.1, +0.1) adjusted up while the 7:30pm 'Bob's Burgers' repeat (0.4, -0.1) adjusted down. NBC's 'Football Night in America' (0.3, -0.7; 1.8, -1.0) adjusted down while the 'Browns v. Giants' NFL game (4.3, +0.9) adjusted up.

Bar Exam Season 2 Episode 9: Lorenzo’s Interview (Writer’s Pick)

 

Friday TV Ratings 12/18/20: Shrek the Halls and Olaf’s Frozen Adventure Perform Decently, MacGyver Steady, College Football Leads (UPDATED)


Preliminary Analysis: 'Shark Tank' took the night off on ABC, replaced by Christmas specials 'Olaf's Frozen Adventure' (0.5) and 'Shrek the Halls' (0.5). 'Olaf' matched what it garnered when it aired last month (0.5) while 'Shrek' was two-tenths below last year (0.7). A steady edition of '20/20' (0.4) closed out the alphabet network's evening. CBS's 'MacGyver' (0.4) inched down to a new series low but 'Magnum PI' (0.5) and 'Blue Bloods' (0.5) clung to last week's numbers. Fox won the night altogether with 'College Football' (0.7). NBC offered up a repeat of 'Weakest Link' (0.4) and a low-rated 'Dateline' (0.3). The CW had a double-pump of 'The Christmas Caroler Challenge' (0.1/0.1).

Finals Update: 'PAC-12 Champsionship' (+0.2), 'MacGyver' (+0.1), and the repeat of 'Dateline NBC' (+0.1) adjusted up.

Bar Exam Christmas Special 2020: Scavenger Hunt

Thursday Cable Ratings 12/17/20: The Situation Room and Tucker Carlson Lead Cable News as CNN, Fox News, MSNBC & Newsmax TV All See Losses, Down NFL Wins the Night

Below are the top 25 programs on cable on Thursday, 12/17/20. Items of note include the Tucker Carlson Tonight on Fox News, NFL on NFL Network, and The Situation Room on MSNBC.

(Note: Click the names of the shows written in purple or blue to be taken to their pages in the TV Ratings Guide Cable Database.)