The recent analysis regarding the performance of Blue Bloods season 14 highlights its impressive ratings, especially in comparison to the program set to replace it in the 10 PM ET timeslot. After a successful decade-long run and a total of 293 episodes, Blue Bloods concluded its journey in December. The show remained a strong audience favorite throughout its final season, which raises questions about CBS’s decision to conclude the series, particularly given its robust viewership.
According to a report from TVLine, Blue Bloods season 14 ranked sixth among broadcast shows, earning the title of the fourth most-watched drama series. When including the Live+7 ratings, which encompass viewership data from the week following the initial broadcast, the season amassed an average of 7.9 million viewers, with a 0.46 rating in the pivotal 18-49 age demographic. Remarkably, the series ended its journey ranking sixth amongst all scripted and reality programs aired by CBS.
In contrast, S.W.A.T. season 8, which is set to fill the vacated time slot on January 31, ranked only #16 of CBS’s programming. Despite averaging 5.6 million viewers and a slightly stronger 0.47 rating in the key demographic (inclusive of Live+7 data), its performance pales in comparison to its predecessor. The top-rated show in broadcast television remains Tracker season 2, succeeded by Kathy Bates’ reboot of Matlock, with 60 Minutes rounding out the top three.
Implications of the Ratings Discrepancy for Blue Bloods
A Pattern in Television Show Conclusions
Reports indicate that the continuation into season 14 was not initially planned. The cast and production team negotiated a temporary salary reduction to ensure job security for the extensive crew and to facilitate a proper series conclusion. This change underscores the rising production costs associated with long-running series, which can strain budgets significantly over time.
Amid evolving viewer preferences and declining advertisement revenues, television networks and studios are increasingly pressed to optimize expenditures, sometimes resulting in the cancellation of shows despite solid ratings. Other series like Young Sheldon (CBS), The Good Doctor (ABC), and 9-1-1: Lone Star (FOX) have faced similar fates as part of these cost-cutting strategies.
While each cancellation story is unique, insights from Young Sheldon’s creators suggest that the series reached a prudent ending. Conversely, cast members voiced unease regarding the abrupt departure of a successful show. Similarly, S.W.A.T. has had a tumultuous exit process involving multiple cancellations and budget cuts, leading to notable cast changes. At present, the future of S.W.A.T. season 9 remains uncertain.
Our Perspective on Blue Bloods Concluding with Season 14
The possibility of a Blue Bloods season 15 was on the table, but similar to S.W.A.T., casting and character dynamics would have likely shifted dramatically. Ultimately, viewers might appreciate the opportunity to see the Reagan family say goodbye together, sharing one last meal, rather than continuing under potentially altered circumstances.
For more insights and the latest updates on television ratings, visit TVLine.
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