NEWS | MYCAREER | DOMAIN | DRIVE | FINANCE | MOBILE | RSVP | STAYZ
  network map | member centre  

Who We Are

Advertisement

The ratings race: Week 37

This is a historic blog. For the latest in TV trends, click here.
Updated 10 am Sunday September 17
Not even the Crocodile Hunter was enough to help Channel Seven beat Channel Nine on Saturday -- but he might have, if Seven had shown him in Melbourne instead of Comedy Classics (287,000) and Made in Melbourne Drama (203,000). Nine won the night with 26.8 per cent of the prime time audience, while Ten, helped by AFL, came second with 25.7, Seven got 25.3, ABC got 15.2 and SBS got 7.1 (thanks to Iron Chef on 330,000 and Rockwiz on 309,000).

What Australia watched, Saturday
RNK Description STN Network Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Adelaide Perth
1 AUSTRALIA'S FUNNIEST HOME VIDEO SHOW Nine 1,163,000 366,000 335,000 263,000 111,000 88,000
2 NINE NEWS SATURDAY Nine 1,146,000 295,000 443,000 204,000 138,000 66,000
3 AFL FINALS 2006: 1ST SEMI FINAL WEST COAST V BULLDOGS Ten 1,144,000 69,000 457,000 61,000 172,000 386,000
4 SEVEN NEWS - SAT Seven 1,091,000 314,000 290,000 255,000 122,000 110,000
5 THE BILL ABC 827,000 276,000 219,000 123,000 73,000 135,000
6 M-THE CROCODILE HUNTER: COLLISION COURSE Seven 816,000 349,000 --- 258,000 105,000 104,000
7 ABC NEWS ABC 804,000 254,000 246,000 171,000 68,000 65,000
8 RUGBY LEAGUE FINAL SERIES SF 2 Nine 788,000 387,000 30,000 350,000 14,000 7,000
9 DOCTOR WHO ABC 763,000 266,000 190,000 134,000 84,000 89,000
10 PARKINSON ABC 639,000 192,000 154,000 105,000 71,000 118,000
(OzTAM preliminary estimates, mainland capitals)

Updated 11 am Saturday September 16
Finally the power of Australia's most popular form of footy asserts itself. Thanks to AFL, Channel Ten won Friday with 29.3 per cent of the prime time audience, while Nine, helped by NRL, got 27.8, Seven got 22.9, ABC got 16.4 and SBS got 3.7.

What Australia watched, Friday
1 SEVEN NEWS Seven 1,313,000 326,000 346,000 254,000 147,000 240,000
2 NINE NEWS Nine 1,275,000 328,000 446,000 236,000 148,000 116,000
3 TEN'S AFL FINALS 2006: 2ND SEMI FINAL FREMANTLE V MELBOURNE Ten 1,264,000 71,000 582,000 25,000 218,000 369,000
4 TODAY TONIGHT Seven 1,262,000 371,000 320,000 225,000 149,000 197,000
5 HOME AND AWAY Seven 1,217,000 402,000 337,000 231,000 115,000 132,000
6 A CURRENT AFFAIR Nine 1,184,000 330,000 395,000 237,000 126,000 96,000
7 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS Seven 1,175,000 355,000 384,000 226,000 110,000 100,000
8 MIDSOMER MURDERS ABC 1,140,000 375,000 332,000 212,000 137,000 84,000
9 TEMPTATION Nine 1,102,000 326,000 350,000 219,000 127,000 80,000
10 RUGBY LEAGUE FINAL SERIES SF 1 Nine 902,000 568,000 42,000 261,000 12,000 19,000

Updated 11 am Friday September 15
A cheeky chappy cheered up a pretty drab night of television on Thursday, in which no program could pull more than 1.4 million in the mainland capitals.

You'd imagine Jamie Oliver would appeal primarily to older viewers who like to cook at home, but apparently he brings out the hidden domesticity in Channel Ten's target 16-39 age group. This was the groovers' top ten (rather different from the "all people" chart below):

1. Jamie's Kitchen Australia (10) 2. My Name is Earl (7) 3. Celebrity Survivor (7) 4. Two and A Half Men (9) 5. How I Met Your Mother (7) 6. Home and Away (7) 7. Bones (7) 8. The Footy Show (9) 9. Futurama (10) 10. David Tench Tonight (10). Now you see why Ten will keep showing David Tench -- it appeals to the target audience, even if it only attracts 794,000 people in the mainland capitals.

Nine won Thursday with 30.7 per cent of the prime time audience, while Seven got 28.2, Ten got 20.6, ABC got 14.9 and SBS got 5.4.

What Australia watched, Thursday
1. Seven News Seven 1.34m
2. Jamie's Kitchen Ten 1.33
3. Today Tonight Seven 1.33
4. Temptation Nine 1.27
5. Home and Away Seven 1.26
6. Nine News Nine 1.25
7. A Current Affair Nine 1.22
8. My Name Is Earl Seven 1.15
9. Two and a Half Men Nine 1.11
10. Getaway Nine 1.09
11. The Footy Show Nine 1.08
12. Celebrity Survivor Seven 1.06
13. The Good, The Bad and the Ugg Boot ABC 1.02
14. How I Met Your Mother Seven 0.98
15. Bones Seven 0.97
(OzTAM preliminary estimates, mainland capitals)

Updated 10 am Thursday September 14
It used to be Sunday, with the Sunday Night Movie. Then it became Monday, with 'Desperate Housewives'. Now it's Wednesday -- the night of the national corroboree, when Australians gather round the campfire to share stories.

Wednesday has become the top viewing night of the week, with four programs attracting more then 1.6 million in the mainland capitals -- 'House', 'Thank God You're Here', 'The Force' and 'Police Files Unlocked'. And next week it will be even bigger, when Nine starts showing 'Rome' at 9.30 and 'The Sopranos' at 10.40.

Ten won Wednesday with a thumping 32.7 per cent of the prime time audience, while Seven got 29.1, Nine got 19.0, ABC got 15.1 and SBS got 4.0.

What Australia watched, Wednesday
Description Network Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Adelaide Perth
1 HOUSE Ten 1,961,000 496,000 669,000 339,000 213,000 244,000
2 THANK GOD YOU'RE HERE 2 Ten 1,907,000 479,000 654,000 310,000 235,000 229,000
3 THE FORCE Seven 1,637,000 442,000 460,000 331,000 166,000 238,000
4 POLICE FILES UNLOCKED Seven 1,619,000 482,000 445,000 310,000 175,000 207,000
5 NCIS Ten 1,525,000 407,000 494,000 254,000 191,000 179,000
6 HOME AND AWAY Seven 1,481,000 430,000 422,000 295,000 137,000 197,000
7 FORENSIC INVESTIGATORS Seven 1,391,000 428,000 415,000 244,000 134,000 170,000
8 TODAY TONIGHT Seven 1,377,000 363,000 431,000 246,000 132,000 207,000
9 NINE NEWS Nine 1,376,000 364,000 455,000 273,000 145,000 139,000
10 SEVEN NEWS Seven 1,369,000 366,000 406,000 249,000 149,000 198,000
11 A CURRENT AFFAIR Nine 1,288,000 379,000 386,000 267,000 138,000 119,000
12 TEMPTATION Nine 1,214,000 348,000 392,000 217,000 137,000 120,000
13 SPICKS AND SPECKS ABC 1,117,000 344,000 266,000 204,000 140,000 163,000
(OzTAM preliminary estimates, mainland capitals)

Updated 10 am Tuesday September 13
We thought the most watched series of the year was going to be 'Dancing With The Stars', but now it looks as if that honour will go to a program totally devoid of names, glitter or even plot. What started as a daggy little documentary, 'Border Security', is averaging 2.2 million viewers a week in the mainland capitals.

While it's now obvious that Channel Seven cannot win the year in terms of prime time audience share, there will be the consolation for Seven of having the two most watched shows, with both of them being Australian-made.

Seven won Tuesday with 31.9 per cent of the prime time audience, while Nine got 28.1, Ten got 19.9, ABC got 13.8 and SBS got 6.2 (thanks to 'The Secret History of 9-11' with 400,000).

Click here to discuss how bad television made us better people.

What Australia watched, Tuesday
1. Border Security Seven 2.31
2. Medical Emergency Seven 1.76
3. Seven News Seven 1.40
4. Temptation Nine 1.37
5. Nine News Nine 1.36
6. Home and Away Seven 1.34
7. Today Tonight Seven 1.34
8. All Saints Seven 1.34
9. A Current Affair Nine 1.31
10. CSI Nine 1.29
11. 20 to 1 Nine 1.28
12. ABC News ABC 1.03
13. The Simpsons 7:30pm Ten 1.03
14. Futurama 8:00pm Ten 0.94
15. Ten News Ten 0.88
(OzTAM preliminary estimates, mainland capitals)

Updated 10 am Tuesday September 12
What do you need to do to get Australians reflecting? The networks must be pondering that problem after the deeper issues failed to pull big audiences on Sunday night and on Monday night. Apparently most Sunday viewers didn't want to know about the legacy of September 11, or the biggest stars in TV history, or the contribution of Peter Brock, or even the love life of Elizabeth I.

And apparently most Monday viewers didn't want to know about global warming (Andrew Denton's interview with Al Gore drew just 971,000) or terrorism ('The Path to 9/11' drew just 677,000 despite a lead-in from 'Grey's Anatomy') or even smart Australian drama ('Two Twisted' drew 642,000). Looks like most people went to bed early.

Seven won Monday with 28.1 per cent of the prime time audience, while Nine got 24.6, Ten got 24.2, ABC got 16.6 and SBS got 6.5 (thanks to 'Top Gear' with 699,000).

Click here to discuss how bad television made us better people.

What Australia watched, Monday
Description Network Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Adelaide Perth
1 GREY'S ANATOMY Seven 1,651,000 483,000 563,000 261,000 147,000 197,000
2 AUSTRALIAN IDOL LIVE VERDICT Ten 1,575,000 424,000 517,000 263,000 187,000 184,000
3 SEVEN NEWS Seven 1,537,000 367,000 451,000 309,000 178,000 232,000
4 HOME AND AWAY Seven 1,483,000 439,000 472,000 271,000 124,000 177,000
5 TODAY TONIGHT Seven 1,464,000 356,000 456,000 281,000 154,000 216,000
6 NINE NEWS Nine 1,424,000 392,000 458,000 322,000 132,000 120,000
7 A CURRENT AFFAIR Nine 1,403,000 433,000 426,000 304,000 134,000 106,000
8 TEMPTATION Nine 1,298,000 367,000 408,000 280,000 137,000 106,000
9 50 YEARS 50 SHOWS Nine 1,271,000 397,000 364,000 259,000 146,000 106,000
10 ABC NEWS ABC 1,167,000 290,000 397,000 176,000 120,000 184,000
11 LAW AND ORDER: SVU Ten 1,160,000 330,000 354,000 211,000 133,000 132,000
12 THE GREAT OUTDOORS Seven 1,081,000 348,000 309,000 179,000 103,000 142,000
(OzTAM preliminary estimates, mainland capitals)

Updated 4pm Moday September 11
Nine won Sunday with 32.8 per cent of the prime time audience, while Ten got 25.9, Seven got 22.0, ABC got 16.3 and SBS got 3.0.

What Australia watched, Sunday
Description Network Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Adelaide Perth
1 60 MINUTES Nine 1,823,000 520,000 542,000 362,000 174,000 226,000
2 NINE NEWS SUNDAY Nine 1,669,000 644,000 312,000 378,000 182,000 153,000
3 AUSTRALIAN IDOL Ten 1,537,000 402,000 505,000 235,000 194,000 199,000
4 PREHISTORIC PARK Nine 1,447,000 456,000 422,000 265,000 163,000 141,000
5 TRUE STORIES Seven 1,333,000 369,000 405,000 235,000 146,000 178,000
6 SEVEN NEWS SUNDAY Seven 1,323,000 324,000 350,000 273,000 169,000 206,000
7 50 YEARS, 50 STARS Nine 1,311,000 385,000 433,000 187,000 160,000 145,000
8 THE WORST JOBS IN HISTORY ABC 1,195,000 369,000 324,000 203,000 144,000 155,000
9 AFL: 1ST ELIM. FINAL COLLINGWOOD V BULLDOGS Ten 1,109,000 115,000 541,000 84,000 182,000 187,000
10 ABC NEWS SUNDAY ABC 1,105,000 294,000 334,000 193,000 133,000 152,000
11 LAW & ORDER: CRIMINAL INTENT Ten 1,085,000 272,000 366,000 176,000 135,000 137,000
12 TRIBUTE TO PETER BROCK Seven 993,000 270,000 354,000 164,000 102,000 104,000
13 MEERKAT MANOR Ten 980,000 210,000 296,000 184,000 123,000 167,000
14 RUGBY LEAGUE FINAL SERIES QF 4 Nine 907,000 513,000 99,000 272,000 18,000 5,000
15 ELIZABETH I ABC 850,000 263,000 249,000 121,000 98,000 119,000
16 ABC NEWS UPDATE ABC 833,000 265,000 230,000 129,000 96,000 114,000
17 THE EINSTEIN FACTOR ABC 747,000 227,000 135,000 180,000 104,000 100,000
18 THE PATH TO 9/11 PART 1 Seven 709,000 207,000 240,000 109,000 59,000 94,000
(OzTAM preliminary estimates, mainland capitals)

The ratings race is updated every weekday as an unpaid service for readers of David Dale's Tribal Mind column, published each Tuesday in The Sydney Morning Herald. David Dale is the author of Who We Are - A Miscellany of the new Australia (Allen and Unwin). Past columns can be found at www.smh.com.au/tribalmind. For a discussion on last week's trends in television, click here.

COMMENTS

Hi TM, Any idea what happened to CSI Sunday? I was at a loss last night. I didn't know what to watch.

  • by SC on September 11, 2006 at 04:01 PM

How disappointing the figures for Elizabeth. It was riveting TV with the two leads just awesome.

  • by Jane B on September 11, 2006 at 04:05 PM

So basically come 8.30pm, everyone turned off. Glad we were not the only ones then. We enjoyed a DVD Instead after 8.30pm.

Tribal Mind replies: Can't believe you would reject the wondrous Helen Mirren.

  • by Darryn on September 11, 2006 at 04:10 PM

Wow, what a terrible result for NRL on Sunday. Only 99,000 in Melbourne for the heavily promoted broadcast of the Storm game. That's even less than watched the AFL in Sydney at the same time for a game not involving the Swans.

  • by Kurt on September 11, 2006 at 04:40 PM

The power of AFL lead-in: NOT!
Seven wins News in Melbourne 350,000 vs 312,000 on Nine, with AFL consuming 6 - 6.30pm slot on TEN. Very rare for NINE to lose that Sunday slot in Melb...

  • by paora on September 11, 2006 at 04:43 PM

The ABC keeps getting better on Sunday nights. Loved Bleak House, Elizabeth was even better.

  • by Drew on September 11, 2006 at 04:45 PM

ABC must be shaking their heads.

Bleak House, Elizabeth I, Worst Jobs and even Dr Who are all top notch television. Well made and entertaining.

Prehistoric Park got 600K more viewers than Elizabeth I.
Dr Who has been losing viewers this season, even though it is superior to last season and far better than most of the tat on FTA telly at the same time.

TM - you must be finding it harder and harder to report (viewing trends and factors) knowledgeably on the habits of Australian TV viewers!!!

  • by pete on September 11, 2006 at 04:58 PM

The 8th most watched programme on Sunday night was "THE WORST JOBS IN HISTORY ABC 1,195,000 369,000 324,000 203,000 144,000 155,000" this is a GREAT watch & shows that us viewers aren't as stupid as the commercial stations think we are. Perhaps they should sit up & take notice.

  • by macca on September 11, 2006 at 05:06 PM

I hope that we dont get much more highlights of what has happend in the 50years of tv -- isnt that why we have such shows as where are they now? and when 9 chooses to air This is your life... ALthough i think that they must me running out of lives.
I am missing my CSI dosage will it be back next weeK? i hope so.
I am thoroghly enjoying both spicks and specks and einstein factor much better and spick/specks has me in stiches almost every week.
I dont know what all the fuss about grays is about thou i watched it for the first time last week and found it ok but not great. but since being in this blog people couldnt wait for it to return..

  • by aj on September 11, 2006 at 05:25 PM

Obviously the biggest disaster of last night was The path to 9/11
It seems Ch 7 has an adversity to taking notice of whats going on around them, as they lurch from one disaster to another.
The major flop of "the falling man" on ABC should of sounded the warning bells for the 7 execs, but once again they chose to ignore them and boy have they paid the price, because this week is over for them already.
I don't know if I am an average viewer or not, all I know is I'm sick of hearing about Steve Irwin and Peter Brock and as every year passes I begin to dread September more and more as Television stations (Esp 7 and 9)are convinced we wish to relive 9/11 over and over.
I'm sure ABC (four corners) and channel 7 (path to 9/11) must be wondering just how much of a mauling those two shows are going to get tonight.

  • by Darryn on September 11, 2006 at 05:28 PM

What is the story of that David Tench show?? Is Australia so lacking in talent that we have to resort to animated talk show hosts (with an american accent!!!)?

  • by sob on September 11, 2006 at 05:43 PM

Loved 'The Worst Jobs in History', good to see quite a few people agreed. Shame about 'Elizabeth' though...loss of 300,000 odd viewers. Talk about good television!

  • by Kim Bort on September 11, 2006 at 05:49 PM

paora
The only reason ch7 won sunday 6pm melbourne news battle with ch9 is that ch9 had the NRL game as the lead-in.
NRL scored a crappy 99000 down there for a Storm game.
I see why lead-in programs are important now.

  • by adam on September 11, 2006 at 06:05 PM

Hi TM, Could you please let me know how is Sunday rating this week? Thanks.

Tribal Mind replies: 264,000.

  • by James on September 11, 2006 at 06:46 PM

I'm glad people avoided the doco-drama THE PATH TO 9/11. Are networks allowed to broadcast such shameful partisan propaganda without a disclaimer? How about putting the following sign "Warning. This program is rated RW and is intended for a ring-wing activists. It contains scenes that may encourage you to invade a foreign country"
Let's see, ABC, 9, 7 all had 9/11 programs and all failed to make it to the top 15. Has this got anything to do with Aussies becoming more suspicious of the conventional 9/11 theory that was pushed down our throats by the media and US gov? Especially since they got the WMDs wrong, and we are now trapped in a what appears to be two never-ending war.
Ch.10 must be commended for airing 911 IN PLANE SITE (An alternate and even more frightening theory of the events of 9/11), even though it was broadcast at 11pm on Saturday, a time where the kids and oldies are asleep and everyone else is out. I wonder if the evil neo-cons were behind any of the blackouts that occured on Saturday? It was probably just the stormy weather.
Most upsetting is that none of the 9/11 programs on fta mentioned anything about Thomas, Habib or Hicks. Surely if any of them had a couple of scenes of the boys doing any terror related activity, it would have pushed the ratings through the roof.

  • by sean on September 11, 2006 at 06:49 PM

Hey,
Just wondering how the US Open tennis has been rating over the weekend?

Tribal Mind replies: Does not seem to be in the top 50 for Sunday, unless it was something called Sportsworld on Seven with 298,000 viewers.

  • by Matt on September 11, 2006 at 07:43 PM

Just quietly, Is Karl Stefanovic being groomed for A Current Affair... Will Tracey move back to Today once Jessica goes on maternity leave?? Karl is much better suited to ACA anyway!! Your thoughts?

Tribal Mind replies: Cute idea. More interesting is the news that Nine has finally scheduled Rome, the sexy series about Julius Caesar, at 9.30 Wednesdays from September 20.

  • by P.M.M. on September 11, 2006 at 08:10 PM

Wow, what a terrible result for NRL on Sunday. Only 99,000 in Melbourne for the heavily promoted broadcast of the Storm game. That's even less than watched the AFL in Sydney at the same time for a game not involving the Swans.
I was shocked as well. I actually watched the whole match live (I live in Melbourne) and thought it was a great game. The disastrous ratings probably means that the Storm's preliminary final in two weeks' time won't be shown live back in Melbourne. It doesn't bode well for the short-term future of rugby league in this city as well.

  • by johnson on September 11, 2006 at 08:57 PM

I'm pleased The Worst Jobs In History rated so well.
If you enjoyed Tony Robinson, I'd recommend you watch Time Team on Tuesday evenings at 6.10 PM.
Elizabeth I - deserved to rate better! Helen Mirren: outstanding performance!
I just finished watching Andrew Denton interview Al Gore. I don't imagine it will have set the ratings on fire, but still a really interesting and intelligent hour of TV.

  • by Evan on September 11, 2006 at 10:39 PM

Ray Hadley is right, lets move the Melbourne Storm to Gosford... Melbourne doesn't deserve them.
Minor premiers by a country mile, loses only 4 games and they get 99000 for a TV audience live, but 177 000 Melbourne people what AFL when Perth play Sydney??
I thought the Vics were parochial, and even though I am born and bred league, I think the AFL is great - i just can't believe they won't give anything else a go down there. Proabably naive of me, but hey.
Having said that, Nine has really dug its own grave to some extent. They show the games all year late at night, and then expect there to be a following once the finals come around showing one game in timeslot that is not an established sports slot??

  • by Chris on September 11, 2006 at 11:08 PM

W00t! Go Idol! Good to see it #1 in Adelaide!
TM, how did the F1 rate rate per city? Keep up the great work, sir!

Tribal Mind replies: Woot? FIA FORMULA ONE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 2006 Ten 302,000 103,000 98,000 34,000 36,000 31,000

  • by Norman on September 12, 2006 at 12:46 AM

Leave the storm in melbourne.There will always be a small supporter base in that city for league.The same could be said for the swans in Sydney.They have been here for a quarter of a century and the best the AFL could do in Sydney on friday night is 63,000 viewers compared to the NRL's 501,000.

  • by bobmar28 on September 12, 2006 at 08:11 AM

Posted by: bobmar28 at September 12, 2006 08:11 AM
Apples and Oranges mate... NRL was shown live on Friday night, AFL was shown on delay AFTER it had already aired on PTV, so its pointless comparing the 2 games.
However, even your comparison was wrong! True 63,000 in Syd watched the Friday night game, but that was ST Kilda vs Melbourne on delay, and the NRL in Melbourne - also on delay on Friday night - got 37,000 viewers.
Now the real test would be to compare games up against one another, like Saturday night. 172,000 in Syd watched the swans out of 1.2 million in the 5 cities, and 34,000 watched the NRL in Melbourne out of 0.76 million in the 5 cities, and thats possibly averaged according to TM. More people in Melbourne watched the Rugby Union than the NRL on Saturday night.
Now if your going to post 'facts' at least spend 2 minutes looking at the data first so youre actually contributing something, as oppossed to just making shit up for arguments sake.
I think the real loser here must be Rugby Union. 7 must be wondering if theres a way to beam the union direct into the eastern and northern suburbs of Sydney, as these figures arent too good at all, it was beaten soundly by NRL and AFL in Sydney despite it being an international game, which is Unions biggest selling point:
SEVEN'S R.U: S A V AUS GAME 3 Seven 317,000 152,000 49,000 75,000 9,000 32,000

  • by Mat on September 12, 2006 at 09:21 AM

I'm not surprised that the '50 Years, 50 Stars' special rated less than expected. I'm sick of current Ch 9 celebrities being rolled out as so-called experts to comment on the history of television. Some of the stars chosen weren't even famous for their TV work. I don't deny that people like Nicole Kidman, Olivia Newton John and John Farnham are huge stars but their contribution to TV is tiny. Where were all the TV stars that have appeared in many TV series like Paul Cronin, Colin Friels, Gary Sweet?

  • by J Bar on September 12, 2006 at 09:26 AM

adam - precisely my point:
AFL lead-in averaged 340,000 over many Sunday's with News 450,000 - 500,000 etc..

  • by paora on September 12, 2006 at 10:06 AM

Why is Ch9 playing 'The Closer' in the time-slot where CSI:NY was doing significantly better Tuesday 9:30?

If Ch9 doesnt start playing it soon, the DVDs will be out before they finish the season. The DVDs come out 8th November and 9 still has about half a season up their sleaves.

  • by William on September 12, 2006 at 10:30 AM

Well the path to 9/11 figures were as bad as I thought they would be.
TM: Any idea on four corners figures?

Tribal Mind replies: 808,000.

  • by Darryn on September 12, 2006 at 10:31 AM

The reason the Storm game did so poorly in Melbourne is because the powers that be at the AFL scheduled an AFL Elimination Final with one of their biggest drawcards - Collingwood - at approx. the same TIME! and place!!! (Olympic Park is across the road of the MCG).
Shame on Demetriou - with no AFL in Melbourne over the next 2 weeks - it would have been better to schedule the Pies / Dogs match on the Saturday night - leaving Melbournians free on Sunday arvo to support the Storm!
I am not a fan of rugby - but am a fan of quality sport and the Storm have been doing this consistently all year and deserve our support here in Melbourne.
Well my beloved Pies are now out (Go Doggies!) so now I can watch the Storm next week! (Go Storm!).
When will Eddie Everywhere and his mate fattie Demetrious get the hint - we just don't care for them!!!

  • by bettestreep on September 12, 2006 at 10:43 AM

Aj Last weeks ep of Grays was not so good. It was much better last night. Stick with it as it is very watchable TV.

  • by Jane B on September 12, 2006 at 10:49 AM

Foreign Correspondent will feature a report on palm oil plantations and the work of the Borneo Orang Utan Survival Foundation this evening at 9.20pm. Palm oil is a silent scourge and it would be great if as many people as possible could watch the report and start avoiding this horrendous product.

  • by No palm oil on September 12, 2006 at 11:00 AM

I don't know - there's always something about nostalgia programs like "50 Years, 50 Stars" that irk me for some reason, so I've never really had much of a desire to view a scene from Number 96, or a moment by Graham Kennedy, for the millionth time (sure, they were great in their era, but Australian TV REALLY needs to move on!).

I remember being bored to death when it was 40 years of television, and the only real moments I can think of for the past 10 years are the Sydney Olympics, and large-scale disasters, natural, man-made, or a combination of both. Not exactly stuff I need to see again.

  • by serg on September 12, 2006 at 11:14 AM

Thoroughly enjoyed last nights ep of Grey's. Very funny seeing Christine and the baby. The next fews weeks are building up to be a cracker. Mind you the DVD for Season 2 is now available in the US and Season 3 begins airing next week. Don't know if I can wait til next year for the next season...

  • by Shez on September 12, 2006 at 11:24 AM

Good argument matt.
If you read todays SMH sport column you also read a load of crap about how good NRL figures are. It seems that the NRL administration only care about Sydney figures. Because outside Sydney the figures are ordinary.
The article comments on the 'peak' figure for the storm in melbourne. For the swans though, they refer to 'average' and 'peak'. No comment about how the storm only averaged 99,000 in their home town.
Newspapers are on a slippery slope to opinionated garbage. NO need for balance or facts!

  • by adam on September 12, 2006 at 12:39 PM

Good to see that SVU is doing slightly better. Interesting, though, given I didn't think the new episode last night was a particularly strong one.

I'm not looking for a specific number (although last night's figure would probably do), how does the 6:30 pm version of World News Australia (SBS) generally rate?

Thanks, Tribal Mind. An excellent job, as usual.

  • by James on September 12, 2006 at 01:11 PM

TM - Do you have any figures on US Open, Sunrise & Today for Monday?
Thanks in advance (sorry if you have already answered above - i couldnt see anything)

Tribal Mind replies: Sunrise 548,000. USO 263,000. Today not in top 50, so less than 258,000.

  • by JM on September 12, 2006 at 01:12 PM

Adam, I just read the article you stated, and yea, it certainly is a slanted view. So the Swans Peaked at 450,000, avged to 172,000. Still 450,000 at a peak is alright in Sydney town, certainly not the doom and gloom you read everywhere else...
Makes the Brisbane League fans seem a little unwanted though, they werent even acknowledged except for showing up to see a game live, which they always do up there anyway, nothing new.
Anyway, I cant wait for the Ashes to start, at least that way theres no arguments for the next 6 months about which code of footy is better. Its getting very tired...

  • by Mat on September 12, 2006 at 01:20 PM

i was curious about the path to 9/11 but it was just too long for sunday and monday nights. people to do have to go to work the next day! i might've taped it if i wasn't already recording other shows like denton.

  • by drew on September 12, 2006 at 01:26 PM

in reply to Mat at September 12, 2006 09:21 AM

2 things to remember at the rugby match
1 the match was shown after 11pm live
2 the match was a dead rubber

  • by cycosmc on September 12, 2006 at 01:35 PM

Hah, the path to 9/11 didn't make it to the top 12. This is the review given to it by the liberal media - "The Path to 9/11" is a partisan movie, written and produced by a right-wing activist who fabricated key scenes to blame Democrats and defend Republicans.
The movie appears to be part of a coordinated push -- including speeches by President Bush and millions of dollars in advertising -- to exploit the five-year anniversary of 9/11 for political gain.
How sad though that more people didn't watch Al Gore on Enough Rope. It was a very good interview. Apparently he lost to Bush because US voters found him boring. I think Aussie TV viewers voted the same way with their remote. Plus, it has been windy and raining quite often in Sydney lately. Not the best time to try and sell the issue of Global *Warming*. Doesn't Al Gore know anything about politics. Nobody notices preventative measures, so its best act after disaster occurs.

  • by sean on September 12, 2006 at 02:50 PM

Early Prediction for Week 37:

Ten knocks Seven for second place after Nine.
Tuesday: Seven, Nine & Ten.
Wednesday: Ten, Seven & Nine.
Thursday: Even spread with Mr Oliver around.
Friday: Nine, Ten & Seven.
Saturday: ditto friday

  • by paora on September 12, 2006 at 03:25 PM

The low numbers for the NRL on Nine is almost certainly a result of the overal poor and crap coverage of the NRL through the whole session by Nine. How do they expect to build a viewer base for the NRL in melbourne by showing games in the wee hours during the whole session. Serves them right. If it wasn't for the anti-syphoning legistration Fox-Sports would have been showing all finals games live. Only the rusted on League supporter in melbourne (like myself) can get any feel for the session and the ultimate climax of the finals. And even I am having my doubts about following the NRL next session when my team (the Raiders) make the finals and then I have to wait 36 hours for a delayed telecast on Nine. Rubbish network.

  • by Ned on September 12, 2006 at 03:46 PM

In reply to mat.
I have to agree about Rugby Union.Their crowds and ratings are way down this year and they just expanded the competition to 14.It would seem that the AFL and rugby union have the same inner city north shore supporter base and the AFL seems to be winning that battle.Meanwhile in NSW and QLD the NRL reigns supreme.

  • by bobmar28 on September 12, 2006 at 03:48 PM

Why would anybody want to watch these programs on terror attacks on America? They don't really shed any new light on the events of five years ago are and are really depressing. This one on Ch 7 was obvious pro-American, right-wing propaganda and not really a memorial or documentary. It looked like it was done in bad taste and I just don't care to watch anything like this.
It was a terrible thing that happened to America but why should it be so important in Australia that it would take up so much media space on TV, radio and newspapers? I'm glad Australians agreed and switched off because it restores my faith in Australia. It makes me think that there may still be some hope of us not being completely taken over by America and American culture.

  • by J Bar on September 12, 2006 at 04:01 PM

Today was not even on on Monday - so how can it rate below 258000?

Tribal Mind replies: That would explain why I couldn't find it on the ratings top 50. If a reader asks for an audience figure on a program, and it's not in the top 50, I normally say "presumably" it was below whatever was the number 50 program.

  • by Tilly on September 12, 2006 at 04:20 PM

"The Path to 9/11" was being touted as a true story leading to the events of the terrorist strike yet, ABC America has said it was a dramatized version which means it's fictional. The fact that they added portions to the story to make it more compelling lost me as I am not interested in hearing conjecture about one of the most horrible things in history (in my view).
Also in reply to Sean, who said Gore lost because American's thought he was boring; Gore actually won the popular vote in America by over 543,000 votes yet lost in the flawed electoral college votes.

  • by BD on September 12, 2006 at 07:42 PM

This might be a bit random...but what ever happened to cheeze TV? Did they get the boot from 10 along with Bert back whenever that was. And are the replacement shows (9am and Toasted TV) doing any better?

  • by steve on September 12, 2006 at 09:30 PM

I don't watch the news at 6 so not sure who's reading the news over on 9. The ratings seem to indicate 9 news in Sydney is now leading. Would anyone know if Ian Ross is still reading the news for 7? Has Ann Sanders retired? And is Steve Leibmann, the face of 10's weekend news? Just curious.

  • by Frankie on September 12, 2006 at 11:58 PM

TM, how does Ten's Early News fare up against Early Sunrise and Today? Also, what does Toasted TV usually rate?

Tribal Mind replies: Last week Early Sunrise 272,000, Early Today 153,000. Toasted TV 132,000. Ten early news 42,000. On Monday US Open 263,000.

  • by Norman on September 13, 2006 at 12:49 AM

Great to see Ch 9 bring back The Apprentice and you gotta love the new time slot..... 11.30pm on sunday night! Thanks Eddie, the recorder will be getting a workout.

  • by Dirty D on September 13, 2006 at 09:02 AM

970,000 viewers for Denton's interview with Al Gore is actually a better figure than I was expecting. I didn't think too many Aussies would be interested.
It goes to show I was not the only one curious to watch the man who should have been President.
Chris Bath reads Channel 7 news on the weekends.
Rome premieres on Nine Wednesday next week. If they'd bring back Nip Tuck soon, I might start writing some nice things about Eddie.

  • by Evan on September 13, 2006 at 09:55 AM

JBar the attacks occured in America but the repercussions are the worlds to bear. Anyone who thinks 9/11 is America's tragedy needs to reassess the level of naval gazing they are undertaking.
I agree with how depressing it all is but I think it would be more depressing if we simply left it behind as another terrible event in history.
I think the media are doing exactly what they should do for a change - keeping it current and real.

  • by KM on September 13, 2006 at 10:40 AM

Posted by: Frankie at September 12, 2006 11:58 PM

"I don't watch the news at 6 so not sure who's reading the news over on 9...Would anyone know if Ian Ross is still reading the news for 7? Has Ann Sanders retired?"

Frankie, are you living in a cave? Even without watching either of the channels 6 o'clock news it would be nearly impossible not to see either Ian Ross or Mark Fergusons faces beaming at you from giant billboards across the city. There are even ads on the tele throughout the evening telling me 'who's who of news and experience does matter if you switch to...' Hold on. Is there any room in that cave!

  • by Den on September 13, 2006 at 11:16 AM

I watched 'The worst jobs in history' and 'Elizabeth'. Quite appropriate that Baldrick is doing a show about bad jobs. As for Elizabeth, it's worth watching as long as you don't believe half of it happened. We keep blaming politicians for rewriting history but surely the English TV stations are just as bad, probably the worst offenders. I'm all for making history entertaining but we all know that motivational speech to the troops never happened and was added to the historical record after the event. Yet producers keep perpetuating these farcical stories because they're more entertaining. Yeah, it was good to watch and Mirren was good, but for historical accuracy was a disgrace.

  • by joh on September 13, 2006 at 11:17 AM

Ch7 is going to be overhauling The Great Outdoors for 2007. Looks like a new team of presenters, with only Ernie Dingo certain to remain.

  • by pete on September 13, 2006 at 11:27 AM

I'm guessing that Elizabeth did only so-so, despite very strong performances by Mirren and co., because people are getting a bit bored with the whole Tudor period-drama thing. All year, it seems, the ABC has been showing this, that and the other drama, docudrama, documentary about Henry V, Elizabeth I, Mary of Scots, James VI and I.

Viewers have just burned out on too many ruffs, I reckon.

  • by His Lordship on September 13, 2006 at 11:47 AM

Frankie says: I don't watch the news at 6 so not sure who's reading the news over on 9. The ratings seem to indicate 9 news in Sydney is now leading. Would anyone know if Ian Ross is still reading the news for 7? Has Ann Sanders retired? And is Steve Leibmann, the face of 10's weekend news? Just curious.

Ian Ross is still reading Channel 7 news in Sydney. Ann Sanders has not retired and may be seen occasionally on 7's morning news or newsbreaks at late weeknights.
Steve Liebmann is half way through his three-month stint reading 10's weekend news while Tracey Spicer is on maternity leave. Who knows Ten may keep Steve for a bit longer depending on ratings and his performance.

  • by johnson on September 13, 2006 at 12:39 PM

Not sure if this has been mentioned previously but Season 6 of the Sopranos is being released on dvd in the US at the beginning of November. Buying it would be preferable to what Channel 9 will do to it if they ever show the whole series!

  • by Callie on September 13, 2006 at 01:11 PM

As I posted before, Ch9 will begin screening the Sopranos next Wednesday at 1030, from what I know.

  • by pete on September 13, 2006 at 01:21 PM

Hi Den & Johnson. Thanks for keeping me up to date to "who's who of news".

  • by Frankie on September 13, 2006 at 01:35 PM


While I haven't sat through an episode (has anyone ?), how much better would that new Hamish and Andy show REAL STORIES be, if they dropped all the Hamish and Andy bits and kept the hostess Jennifer Adams.

She is major star material who deserves much better than the tripe she's saddled with at the moment !

Got to agree with lower case pete too about DOCTOR WHO. David Tennant is the without question the best Doctor since Peter Davison in his cricket sweater.

ABC should be screening it on Sunday nights at 7.30pm

  • by Curious George on September 13, 2006 at 01:37 PM

Heeheehee, see that old Asian lady pout on Boarder Security, cos customs confiscated her fruit :) It's not my intention to be mean, but you just can't write comedy like that?

  • by sean on September 13, 2006 at 02:11 PM

Historical inaccuracies apart, I am probably alone in finding Elizabeth I a terribly clunky script. And yes I know Mirren got a gong, but I am a bit tired of the Brit school of acting where everyone has an acting style that is "I am a thesp, look at me" (especially in the historicals). Bring her back as Tennison.

And on the opposite of the spectrum, The Wedge is awful bar Rebel Wilson and those two tramps outside the shopping centre.

Hope this post appears - I had posted earlier on Rebel because I think she is rather underrated but the post did not appear.

  • by shama on September 13, 2006 at 02:12 PM

KM, the attacks that occured in America may be the world's to bear but I have a feeling you are also believing the American propaganda that is being fed to us.

  • by Alexander on September 13, 2006 at 02:14 PM

TM - if possible, are you able to compare the ratings for Today Tonight (with stand-in) host Anna Coren & A current affair (stand-in host Karl Stefanovic) with the last ratings with the usual host of Naomi and Tracey. Who rates better or is it apples & oranges.
Also noticed that KAK has been sent on nice overseas trip to Austria & neighbours. Is this a sweetener to keep her at Nine when her contract comes up?
Finally, missing both Boston Legal and Veronica Mars S2 (only 1 ep screened thus far) tempted to download or buy DVDs. Which raises a question, the music charts system had to introduced a new chart this year to show most downloaded ringtones, etc. Wonder if OZTAM will ever work out a system for most downloaded show as part of the ratings reports, probably information out of their monitoring control but it may make for interesting comparison. As always, TM - love your work (especially as it is for love not money)

Tribal Mind replies: You would need to tell me precisely when the various substitute announcers were on, and I could go back and check. But there does not seem to be any particular new pattern in the figures for ACA and TT lately.

  • by kate on September 13, 2006 at 02:22 PM

Rome is on at 9.30pm next Wednesday and The Sopranos at 10.40pm according to Nine's web site. There is also a guide to Rome as well. You may need it as the first episode is a little confusing.

  • by David on September 13, 2006 at 02:58 PM

I agree with Serg - 50 years of TV and not much has changed. We have a dearth of entertainment and real talent in this country due to the recycling of entertainment and talent - they have to break new ideas and people soon or we'll soon be showing the same people and shows in the special on 60 Years!
Interesting how Border Security rates so highly - perhaps that's the type of 'reality' we want - the real stuff. Also enjoyed True Stories (I think that's the name - really touching life stories) - saw it for the first time but am confused about it's actual time slot - TM do you know if it's ongoing - Sundays are so confusing. So nice to see such interesting people and stories presented so well. Please, FTA channels - if you can't afford the dramas and comedies - show more of the real stuff and less of the contrived, expensive celebrity-style calamities.

  • by VJ on September 13, 2006 at 03:03 PM

imagine no tv what would some people do??????????? Actually it is just as well that there is nothing on TV-- as we can get to live life and not dream on.
It is almost like tv has come full circle where people used to gather to watch now maybe depending on the show.
Maybe we should have a facility which is pay for as needed we dont need tv and we managed for a long long time previously without it.

  • by a1 on September 13, 2006 at 03:32 PM

Adam Hills has signed for a third year of Spicks N Specks, even though there were rumours he was being courted by the networks.

  • by pete on September 13, 2006 at 03:50 PM

How good is that Rolf Harris star portraits show. I cant believe i could ever like a show with Rolf Harris in I thought I used to be cool.There's something about watching the process of those portraits taking shape and not only that it's wrapped up in one half hour package.I've also really gotten into Antiques Roadshow what a great show, the looks of delight on someones face when the Victorian Chamber Pot they had stored in the shed turns out to be worth 5 grand.Am I just getting old or is this a phase?I wonder how many people feel the same?

  • by ace on September 13, 2006 at 04:14 PM

Excuse me, his lordship, but would you care to name the endless dramas and documentaries about English monarchs which you claim the ABC has been broadcasting all year? Cos I can't think of any...

  • by andy on September 13, 2006 at 04:41 PM

Hey Pete - where did you get the info re the Great Outdoors and a complete revamp of their presenters?
Would be good if you could refer to an article or news release.

  • by VJ on September 13, 2006 at 05:01 PM

Will there ever come a time when the masses ever see through the trashy sentiment and nostalgic crap that ch 9 dishes up ,seriously? Ch 7 is the same .They have rehashed their entire video collections and served it up as " Specials", for heavens sake.Philip Adams was right, ch 9 could make a dog turd sound like a chocolate ecclair. James get out now before it sinks........!!!!!!

  • by joe blow on September 13, 2006 at 08:04 PM

Hey TM
you didn't answer my question.
That's pretty low mate
have a good day none the less

Tribal Mind replies: I went back through the last 50 comments to find your entry, and I presume the question you are referring to was "what has happened to cheez tv?" I didn't answer because I don't know. That is a question best directed to whatever station was showing Cheez TV. When I publish a question without an answer, it's because I am hoping another reader might know. So far nobody has responded, but don't give up hope.

  • by Steve on September 13, 2006 at 10:02 PM

Back in the AGB McNair days, (and the AC Nielsen time), weren't the ratings get measured by points? (18, 22,34 etc)
Wonder what the equivalent be for an Oztam rating of 2.2 million viewers today. Maybe 41?

Tribal Mind replies: Sounds about right. The points referred to the percentage of sets tuned to that show. Back in 1977, the first TV showing of The Sound of Music scored 57 in Melbourne and 52 in Sydney, which seems to be a record.

  • by Frankie on September 13, 2006 at 11:57 PM

I just heard on the 7.30 a.m. radio news that Naomi Robson and crew are in trouble in Indonesia. Apparently they only have tourist visas and they are in the country for "special assignment". I say lock her up with the Bali 9

  • by Daz on September 14, 2006 at 07:44 AM

What was TGYH thinking putting on a comedian (of sorts) from The Wedge? Obviously a bit of cross promotion which they are entitled to do, but why not get the fat chick on. At least she is somewhat visually humorous. This guy from The Wedge was nearly as bad as Kate Langbroek.

  • by Dr DK on September 14, 2006 at 08:59 AM

Curious George, yup sat through every episode of real stories and i think that its only funny because of the skits. The "host" is good too, but it wouldnt really be a show without the hamish and andy skits!

  • by Tasha on September 14, 2006 at 09:12 AM

Quite interesting story on the future of media ownership on Lateline last night. Why is the government changing the laws to allow the current media owners to control more of the existing media? Why are the free-to-air networks being protected in Australia and why are we being denied more choice? We need more media owners in this country so that we have diversity and different points of view. Why does it always seem that former prime ministers have more vision for the future of Australia than the current government? People need to keep letting the Communications minister know that we're not happy with their plans that will further restrict choice and diversity in Australia.

  • by J Bar on September 14, 2006 at 09:13 AM

Lol, no free to air or pay TV for this household last night.

We kicked back and watched 2 of 4dvd's that cover the first season of "The Golden Girls". It has been sometime since I laughed so hard that it hurt.

  • by Darryn on September 14, 2006 at 09:21 AM

HOORAY, Naomi Robson is being deported !! Break out the bubbly !!

Oh wait .... she is being deported from Papua ... and will be returning to Australia ... back to work everyone, 6.30pm is still not safe.

  • by sean on September 14, 2006 at 09:31 AM

Re: My information about Great Outdoors.

Robert Fidgeon mentioned it on local radio Tuesday morning, and there is an article about it over at Mediaspy. I am more than happy to share my sources, but this being a SMH blog I don't want to tread on any toes.

  • by pete on September 14, 2006 at 09:41 AM

Nine did so badly in the ratings last night! Yahooooooo. What did the Great Weight Debate rate please? Also what do the repeats of campy Sons and Daughters rate? Cheers

Tribal Mind replies: Can't find Sons and Daughters in the top 50, so less than the 276,000 who watched 'Jakers! The Adventures of Piggley Winks' on ABC.

  • by Mike on September 14, 2006 at 10:04 AM

Hey TM: just wondering How the Great Weight Debate rated last night along with Mothers in War ?
Cheers.

Tribal Mind replies: They seem to have driven older viewers over to Channel Seven. Both are in Yasmin territory: MIW 651,000; GWD 624,000.

  • by Toddski on September 14, 2006 at 10:07 AM

I watched the first skit with Shaun Micallef last night on TGYH, then gave the rest a miss. Who "won"?

  • by Bereft Skerrick on September 14, 2006 at 10:37 AM

Tribal Mind replies: They seem to have driven older viewers over to Channel Seven. Both are in Yasmin territory: MIW 651,000; GWD 624,000.

Congratulations Eddie - another success - when are you going to learn ? ....

Geoff

  • by Geoff on September 14, 2006 at 10:37 AM

i know why boarder security gets so many viewers, it because there isn't anything else on. its one of the worst shows of the week, they show the same scene 5 times, and its of some high school drop out ripping open a cardboard box, woopy do, read a book, do some exercise, turn of the TV and talk people

  • by chris on September 14, 2006 at 10:53 AM

How do each of the morning and afternoon news editions compare?

Tribal Mind replies: The are not in top 50 so I don't have those figures. At some point in the next few weeks I will do a special research project on the subject and cover it in a column.

  • by Nikotin on September 14, 2006 at 10:54 AM

'Great Weight Debate' and 'Mothers in War' must rank among the biggest flops this year. Let's just hope that the dismal ratings for these types of reality shows means they won't be attempted again. They should now be banished into exile along with celebrity reality shows and trash series trying to pass for current affairs.
I bet Ch 9 regret moving 'McLeod's Daughters' out for a few weeks which gave a boost to the new series of 'Thank God You're Here' and the brand new Police factual series. Do you like the term factual series? I don't think they should be classed as reality shows and factual series seems more approriate for 'Border Security', 'Medical Emergency' and 'The Force'.

  • by J Bar on September 14, 2006 at 11:08 AM

Thanks TM

  • by Nikotin on September 14, 2006 at 11:26 AM

Yes, love to know the numbers for Mothers in War last night please TM. Baffling decision to leave Macca's off another week to fit that on. When it comes to drama Nine doesn't want to see anyone over 35 in its shows (and viewing figures tend to reinforce the prejudice). But here they are, sticking a couple of fifty-something mums in and hoping for big things. No wonder TGYH hit new heights, even with that poor bloody comedy roadkill from the Wedge.

Tribal Mind replies: See answer to Toddski earlier.

  • by crispy on September 14, 2006 at 11:27 AM

I would like to see A Current Affair do a story on the dangers of travelling to a foreign country on an incorrect visa. They could show Naomi and her Today Tonight crew behind bars. A re-enactment of the interrogation by the Indonesian authorities would be a bonus. Today Tonight is seen by millions of Aussies every night. What a wonderful example they are in what NOT to do.

  • by Den on September 14, 2006 at 11:30 AM

re chris, i like border security. they do repeat a lot of scenes, after an ad break, and they do try to build up suspense a bit much more than needed, BUT its still a quality show with something a little bit different every week.

I just love how its unexpected humour

  • by Tasha on September 14, 2006 at 11:35 AM

I don't think Rome will be a ratings hit. Also,as for Sopranos - us fans are sick of Channel 9's treatment of the show and heaps of us have watched the previous seasons on DVD and have downloaded the current season screening next week as it started months ago in the US. Still, I do hope that it rates well as it is the BEST show on television.

  • by Helena on September 14, 2006 at 11:37 AM

House was brilliant, as usual. It's rather ridiculous that Network Ten has taken so long to show season 2 -- season 3 starts in a week or two in the US.

Either you missed my question, or you didn't know, but could I ask about World News Australia (SBS) ratings again? ;-)

Tribal Mind replies: Must have missed it. How long ago did you ask? Answer: less than 276,000.

  • by James on September 14, 2006 at 11:38 AM

The strong figures for both TGYH and channel 7's double offering of The Force and Police Files would sugguest that the people who watch comedy(TGYH), are not hte same people who enjoy cop drama (The Force).

Therefore, perhaps there is still hope to compete against 'Border Security' on Tuesday night. You just have to find the same people who watch TGYH on Wednesday night.

  • by Chung on September 14, 2006 at 11:48 AM

shaun micalef won the night on tgyh...

  • by ang on September 14, 2006 at 11:57 AM

Wow, who would of thought after the absolute kicking Channel 7 got on Sunday and Monday with path to 9/11 that they would now be looking at winning the week.
TM: am I right in the assumption that 7 is now well ahead for the week?

Tribal Mind replies: Not well ahead -- about 29 per cent to Nine's 28 per cent. And footy still to come.

  • by Darryn on September 14, 2006 at 12:06 PM

Quoth J Bar at September 14, 2006 11:08 AM: "Do you like the term factual series? I don't think they should be classed as reality shows and factual series seems more approriate..."

Whatever happened to the good old word "documentary"?

  • by tqd on September 14, 2006 at 12:08 PM

Quoth Tribal Mind: "Can't find Sons and Daughters in the top 50, so less than the 276,000 who watched 'Jakers! The Adventures of Piggley Winks' on ABC."
I hope you're not dissing Mr Winks. He is very popular in our house. Especially with the almost-four year old, and I must admit, I'm chuffed to see he made the list. Especially when it's a repeat. :)
I seem to watch more ABC Kids nowadays than anything else... (If I could think of a reason, apart from "sheer curiosity", I'd ask for the ratings of the various ABC Kids shows...)

Tribal Mind replies:
41 YAKKITY YAK-PM ABC 306,000 98,000 56,000 73,000 45,000 34,000
42 CYBERCHASE-PM ABC 303,000 104,000 55,000 75,000 38,000 32,000
44 BLUE WATER HIGH-PM ABC 299,000 52,000 86,000 72,000 40,000 48,000
45 TOTALLY WILD Ten 298,000 94,000 65,000 62,000 35,000 43,000
46 TODAY Nine 298,000 104,000 96,000 48,000 26,000 23,000
48 A TOWN CALLED PANIC-PM ABC 284,000 68,000 68,000 61,000 51,000 37,000
50 JAKERS!: THE ADVENTURES OF PIGGLEY WINKS-PM ABC 276,000 95,000 54,000 73,000 26,000 28,000

  • by tqd on September 14, 2006 at 12:12 PM

Great news about the Sopranos but when is Channel Nine going to bring back Nip/Tuck .... surely that would have rate better than some of the drivel that's been on 'the one' in the last couple of weeks.

  • by sally on September 14, 2006 at 12:18 PM

James wrote: "House was brilliant, as usual. It's rather ridiculous that Network Ten has taken so long to show season 2 - season 3 starts in a week or two in the US."
House season 3 has already started - second episode of the new season came out yesterday.
With ratings at almost 2 mil, it just goes to show that people are crying out for intelligently scripted drama (remember those?).

  • by damien on September 14, 2006 at 12:28 PM

Is the total viewing audiance actually larger on Wednesday nights? The percentage 10 attracted is not much bigger than that which 9 got on Sunday...

  • by Mike Bourke on September 14, 2006 at 12:42 PM

Check out my youtube posting. There's a great piece of editing at the begining.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9TJZHRxFlnk

Tribal Mind replies: Not sure what you mean by "my youtube posting". What I am seeing is a trailer for Larry David's last season of Curb Your Enthusiasm. Better to buy it on DVD, I would have thought.

  • by canoli on September 14, 2006 at 12:44 PM

Please tell me that Extras- the funniest show on TV for one more week- got more than the GWD over on Nine?

Tribal Mind replies: Extras got more than the GWD over on Nine. (732,000).

  • by A.A on September 14, 2006 at 12:45 PM

44 BLUE WATER HIGH-PM ABC 299,000 52,000 86,000 72,000 40,000 48,000
45 TOTALLY WILD Ten 298,000 94,000 65,000 62,000 35,000 43,000
46 TODAY Nine 298,000 104,000 96,000 48,000 26,000 23,000

OMG.. you mean more people watch Blue Water High than the Today Show??? HAHAH - that's shocking!!

Tribal Mind replies: Why? Bluewater High is a good show.

  • by Clem on September 14, 2006 at 12:48 PM

hahaha, TM. Can't help but noticing that four kids TV shows beat Today! Maybe they should replace Jess Rowe with Lamb Chops.
I was quite surprised that House got almost 2m viewers. That's getting up there for the year, isn't it? Wasn't 2.6m the highest rating for a show this year?

Tribal Mind replies: Yes. Records of previous top rating shows are in the archive at www.smh.com.au/tribalmind

  • by pete on September 14, 2006 at 12:56 PM

Tribal Mind responded to my question on World News Australia (SBS): "Must have missed it. How long ago did you ask? Answer: less than 276,000."
I asked two days ago. Does it always rate so poorly? (Am I the only one who watches it? ;-))
Damien wrote: "House season 3 has already started - second episode of the new season came out yesterday."
My mistake, though the sentiment stays the same. While I understand the reasons why an Australian network may not buy/debut a show until it's proven successful elsewhere, I fail to see the benefit of their tendency to fall further and further behind the available episodes.
It's not winning them any points, despite (in this case) the already excellent figures.
However, I'm not hoping that Ten does the same as they've done with SVU recently; doubling up on new episodes on some nights, which is a bit of (for myself, at least) overload.

  • by James on September 14, 2006 at 01:01 PM

What has happened to "Thank God You're Here"??? This season it is as flat as a tack. Those responsible for the "background" work on each scene seem to be just as good with converting their roles to the emerging situations as they were last season; but the "competitor/guests" in this season's two weeeks seem as vague and as "on another planet" as Shaun Micallef in front of a stuck autocue waiting for the bllock to clear. What is wrong? Is it that those they are inviting are not good at improvising? It had better get better or I will stop watching!!!!

  • by Boris Kleist on September 14, 2006 at 01:21 PM

Any news from 9 or 7 about the new seasons of Survivor and Amazing Race?

Both kick off in the US this week.. but no mention on either network as to when/if they might screen..????

  • by Ben Wilson on September 14, 2006 at 01:22 PM

Channel 10 on Wednesday's have a great line-up. House was brilliant as usual and NCIS was great!
And they were both new episodes last night...yippee!
Though, looking at next weeks guide - it appears that NCIS will be a repeat. D'oh!
Am also ticked off with Channel 10 who seem to not want to air Criminal Intent for some unknown reason.
Channel 9...keep putting crud programs on...do they expect to get the Australian public to keep watching.

  • by Love My McDreamy on September 14, 2006 at 01:43 PM

hey tm,
if you know can you please tell me how many people watch The First 48. its on channel 7 wed nights at 11 oclockish. thanks in advance

  • by jazz on September 14, 2006 at 02:09 PM

Thanks for the kids' shows' ratings! (Where in hell do I put those damned apostrophes again???)
And to the people laughing that they beat the Today show (and I must admit, it did give me a chuckle as well), it's really comparing apples and oranges, unfortunately. Different timeslots!
None of the ABC Kids shows in the morning beat Today. But the afternoon shows all rated better - presumably kids can then wrest the remote away from their parents, there being little in the way of adult viewing in the afternoons. (And how does The Bold And The Beautiful sneak into what has always been a kids' hour of TV?) Or their parents are still at work.
It's like saying that House beat Midnight Zoo. Rather meaningless, really.
(Shame though. I'd love to see Thomas the Tank Engine giving Today/Sunrise a run for their money. Imagine, they could re-invent their show in the resulting panic with the Fat Controller in charge, and have lots of petulant eye-rolling from the talent... Heh heh.)

  • by tqd on September 14, 2006 at 02:39 PM

Mike Bourke asked: "Is the total viewing audiance actually larger on Wednesday nights? The percentage 10 attracted is not much bigger than that which 9 got on Sunday..."

Based on a quick addition of the numbers of the top 12 shows for each night this week, yes. (Not a terribly accurate measurement, but a good outline.)
Sunday: 15.9, Wednesday: 19.6 (Mon: 16.5, Tue: 17.1)

  • by James C on September 14, 2006 at 03:01 PM

Oh you gotta laugh. Ch 7 Today Tonight are going to tell the real story behind Naomi Robson�s detention tonite. It�s a story of secrecy and intrigue capped off by the treachery of a rival network in tipping off Indonesian authorities. Meanwhile Channel 9 A Current Affair are going to tell the real story behind Naomi Robson�s detention tonight. It�s a story of stupidity and breaking the sovereign laws of another country.
And all she was trying to do was save a young boy from a tribe of cannibals. Here was I thinking she was doing a edgy take on the worsening political situation in Papua.

  • by I am the Walrus on September 14, 2006 at 03:28 PM