12/24/2008

Michael Pascua

Why should television networks skimp on television during the holiday season? People watch television all the time.

Maybe it's not just time for Christmas specials and repeats. Although it isn't the biggest time to gain ratings, CBS was close to breaking even for viewers. The network had a large list of show reruns that didn't do that badly. CBS could have capitalized by doing several things:  
  
*Survivor* and *Amazing Race* Specials: *The Amazing Race* could capitalize on a reunion episode. Tie it in with the holiday season by having interviews at home. It would have been great to see families like Toni & Dallas, or Nick and Starr at home; or even see if Ken and Tina patched up their relationship. Similarly with *Survivor: Gabon*, parents Crystal, Bob, and Susie would have been interesting to see during their holidays. Matty could further flesh out the details of his wedding plans.  
  
Comedy Holiday Episodes: Having shows like *Two and a Half Men* and *How I Met Your Mother* holiday episodes would be funny, or even tie it in with New Year's, try finding out resolutions for Barney or Charlie.  
  
CSIs: Pull a full three episode crossover episode between Las Vegas, New York and Miami. Maybe have a Santa killer theme where somehow one person is killing in three different places. If not, have three side episodes that are dedicated to Grissom, Mac, and Horatio. Next year rotate to another character.  
  
Clip shows: Why not? Put in some witty new clips. Hope for new people to watch and maybe there will be more viewers in the spring.  
  
Marathon a show one night: Put *Password* on for a whole night. Possibly marathon a season of *Amazing Race: Asia*.  
  
CBS could gain viewers for next season or at least defend for a few more weeks. All networks should consider low times as an opportunity for gaining viewers.