The Who We Are update: Week 11

Wednesday May 9, 2007 04:08 PM

Who We Are

This edition of the blog is now a heritage item - worth studying but no longer current. For the latest discussion of Australiian attitudes, bookmark http://blogs.sunherald.com.au/whoweare.
To learn why there are four sexes in Australia, go to The Tribal Mind.

What Australia watched, Saturday
Description Total Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Adelaide Perth
1 DOC MARTIN ABC 1,232,000 330,000 420,000 220,000 119,000 142,000
2 SEVEN NEWS - SAT Seven 1,166,000 286,000 345,000 259,000 108,000 168,000
3 ABC NEWS-SAT ABC 1,071,000 260,000 357,000 233,000 95,000 126,000
4 M-NATIONAL TREASURE (R) Seven 996,000 255,000 318,000 226,000 102,000 95,000
5 NINE NEWS SAT Nine 989,000 208,000 325,000 217,000 144,000 96,000
6 COLLECTORS (SHORTS) ABC 942,000 258,000 316,000 164,000 87,000 117,000
Continued here.

7 ABC NEWS UP-DATE ABC 896,000 246,000 291,000 146,000 88,000 125,000
8 AUSTRALIA'S FUNNIEST HOME VIDEO SHOW Nine 859,000 195,000 284,000 167,000 113,000 100,000
9 TEN NEWS AT FIVE SAT Ten 820,000 187,000 291,000 129,000 113,000 100,000
10 BILL ABC 806,000 216,000 257,000 140,000 80,000 114,000
11 THE INSPECTOR LYNLEY MYSTERIES Seven 723,000 180,000 239,000 129,000 89,000 86,000
12 GARDENING AUSTRALIA ABC 707,000 173,000 239,000 137,000 79,000 79,000
13 THE LONGEST YARD -RPT Nine 663,000 205,000 223,000 143,000 92,000
14 SPORTS TONIGHT SAT Ten 654,000 142,000 219,000 100,000 86,000 107,000
15 MATILDA RPT Ten 603,000 144,000 170,000 118,000 64,000 107,000
16 THE SIMPSONS SAT Ten 574,000 165,000 171,000 88,000 85,000 65,000
17 TERMINATOR 2: JUDGMENT DAY RPT Ten 567,000 117,000 176,000 94,000 71,000 109,000
18 ABC NEWS UP-DATE-LE ABC 507,000 141,000 150,000 95,000 58,000 62,000
19 SHREK 2 -RPT Nine 506,000 204,000 219,000 84,000
20 KEEPING UP APPEARANCES Seven 502,000 156,000 135,000 81,000 72,000 58,000
21 TOP GEAR (SERIES 1) SBS 454,000 112,000 149,000 107,000 56,000 30,000
22 THE GOOD LIFE Seven 450,000 139,000 117,000 67,000 75,000 52,000
23 AUSTRALIAN FIA FORMULA ONE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 2008 - DAY 2 Ten 387,000 82,000 152,000 54,000 74,000 25,000

The ratings race, updated 10am Sunday March 16
Nine won Thursday comfortably, and Friday narrowly, but the rugby league was not enough to push Nine past Seven, and with Seven winning Saturday, the audience shares for the week averaged at Seven 28.2 per cent, Nine 27.6, Ten 22.5, ABC 16.6 and SBS 5.1.

We are seeking your nominations for the Bogie Awards of 2008. Last year's winners are displayed below. If you'd care to suggest TV's most annoying, embarrassing, unnecessary and underrated personalities, programs and advertisements, go to "Comments".

What Australia watched, Friday
Description Total Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Adelaide Perth
1 SEVEN NEWS Seven 1,261,000 360,000 284,000 228,000 185,000 204,000
2 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS Seven 1,256,000 383,000 324,000 232,000 150,000 167,000
3 TODAY TONIGHT Seven 1,171,000 327,000 304,000 224,000 139,000 177,000
4 NINE NEWS Nine 1,161,000 285,000 421,000 233,000 129,000 93,000
5 HOME AND AWAY Seven 1,057,000 299,000 247,000 232,000 127,000 152,000
6 DALZIEL AND PASCOE ABC 1,052,000 280,000 343,000 153,000 117,000 159,000
7 ABC NEWS ABC 1,027,000 274,000 329,000 217,000 112,000 96,000
8 A CURRENT AFFAIR Nine 943,000 245,000 303,000 210,000 116,000 69,000
11 NINE'S LIVE FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL Nine 807,000 432,000 Not shown 375,000 Not shown Not shown
19 KING KONG Ten 669,000 171,000 246,000 89,000 83,000 81,000
22 MY FAMILY ABC 573,000 130,000 187,000 100,000 76,000 81,000
25 NINE'S FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL Nine 458,000 291,000 Not shown 167,000 Not shown Not shown
31 MISS CONGENIALITY 2: ARMED AND FABULOUS -RPT Nine 359,000 206,000 Not shown 68,000 85,000
(OzTAM preliminary estimates, mainland capitals)

What Australia watched, Thursday
Description Total Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Adelaide Perth
1 RAMSAY'S KITCHEN NIGHTMARES Nine 1,527,000 438,000 523,000 219,000 180,000 168,000
2 SEVEN NEWS Seven 1,355,000 344,000 339,000 284,000 159,000 229,000
3 TODAY TONIGHT Seven 1,256,000 316,000 346,000 243,000 156,000 194,000
4 THE FOOTY SHOW Nine 1,235,000 332,000 462,000 175,000 138,000 128,000
5 HOME AND AWAY Seven 1,163,000 367,000 272,000 242,000 122,000 161,000
6 LAW AND ORDER: SVU Ten 1,142,000 365,000 263,000 231,000 127,000 155,000
7 ABC NEWS ABC 1,068,000 296,000 357,000 187,000 106,000 122,000
8 GETAWAY Nine 1,065,000 325,000 301,000 203,000 123,000 113,000
9 THE AMAZING RACE Seven 1,046,000 246,000 327,000 202,000 120,000 151,000
10 NINE NEWS Nine 1,045,000 282,000 314,000 196,000 147,000 105,000
11 THE BIGGEST LOSER (AUS) Ten 1,027,000 264,000 323,000 203,000 111,000 127,000
12 A CURRENT AFFAIR Nine 986,000 256,000 306,000 222,000 107,000 95,000
13 MEDIUM Ten 897,000 290,000 214,000 149,000 116,000 128,000
17 SAVING KIDS WITH DAMIEN LEITH Ten 797,000 242,000 235,000 142,000 93,000 84,000
20 FAMILY GUY Seven 711,000 185,000 218,000 154,000 82,000 72,000
21 LIFE ON MARS ABC 711,000 204,000 228,000 112,000 79,000 87,000
22 LOST Seven 691,000 200,000 210,000 111,000 84,000 85,000
25 OUT OF THE QUESTION Seven 671,000 211,000 198,000 132,000 56,000 75,000
32 AMERICAN DAD Seven 449,000 133,000 130,000 61,000 60,000 64,000
33 SOUL DEEP: THE STORY OF BLACK POPULAR MUSIC ABC 428,000 118,000 141,000 82,000 50,000 36,000
(OzTAM preliminary estimates, mainland capitals)

Australians don't like TV shows based on humiliation. Time and again they've proved that, and time and again the networks keep bowling it back up to them.

On Tuesday night, Channel Nine, having learned nothing from The Fear Factor, tried out a show called The Moment of Truth, in which contestants must answer embarrassing questions about themselves. Despite massive publicity, it attracted 844,000 viewers in the mainland capitals. It did best with people aged 16-39, so a few more weeks will pass before Nine hears Yasmin calling.

Nine won Sunday and Thursday and Seven won Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.

What Australia watched, Wednesday
Description Total Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Adelaide Perth
1 SEVEN NEWS Seven 1,485,000 377,000 412,000 317,000 173,000 205,000
2 RSPCA ANIMAL RESCUE Seven 1,418,000 353,000 381,000 316,000 135,000 232,000
3 TODAY TONIGHT Seven 1,336,000 328,000 382,000 281,000 147,000 198,000
4 UNDERBELLY Nine 1,233,000 522,000 325,000 174,000 213,000
5 HOME AND AWAY Seven 1,224,000 319,000 298,000 262,000 153,000 193,000
6 THE REAL SEACHANGE Seven 1,173,000 317,000 276,000 255,000 107,000 217,000
7 ABC NEWS ABC 1,152,000 303,000 384,000 213,000 116,000 136,000
8 THE CHOPPING BLOCK Nine 1,062,000 301,000 332,000 192,000 133,000 104,000
9 HOUSE RPT Ten 1,060,000 330,000 307,000 188,000 119,000 115,000
10 A CURRENT AFFAIR Nine 1,058,000 262,000 326,000 249,000 129,000 92,000
11 NATIONAL NINE NEWS Nine 1,034,000 258,000 305,000 227,000 151,000 93,000
12 THE BIGGEST LOSER (AUS) Ten 1,020,000 249,000 331,000 223,000 109,000 108,000
13 LEWIS Seven 1,010,000 281,000 308,000 173,000 116,000 133,000
14 SPICKS AND SPECKS ABC 950,000 238,000 316,000 175,000 107,000 114,000
15 BACK TO YOU Ten 944,000 263,000 312,000 179,000 91,000 99,000
16 NUMB3RS Ten 930,000 237,000 284,000 170,000 135,000 104,000
17 THE NEW INVENTORS ABC 883,000 259,000 259,000 184,000 92,000 90,000
18 CASHMERE MAFIA Nine 851,000 271,000 272,000 126,000 72,000 110,000
26 STUPID STUPID MAN-EV ABC 572,000 120,000 211,000 104,000 73,000 63,000
65 NEWSTOPIA SBS 201,000 63,000 53,000 43,000 20,000 22,000

What Australia watched, Tuesday
Description Total Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Adelaide Perth
1 SEVEN NEWS Seven 1,405,000 383,000 360,000 299,000 167,000 195,000
2 TODAY TONIGHT Seven 1,327,000 352,000 364,000 277,000 160,000 173,000
3 BONDI RESCUE Ten 1,315,000 326,000 431,000 262,000 136,000 161,000
4 IT TAKES TWO Seven 1,284,000 374,000 367,000 246,000 131,000 165,000
5 HOME AND AWAY Seven 1,253,000 357,000 311,000 271,000 148,000 166,000
6 ALL SAINTS Seven 1,174,000 334,000 380,000 175,000 131,000 153,000
7 KITCHEN NIGHTMARES U.S.A. Nine 1,163,000 323,000 411,000 192,000 117,000 120,000
8 NINE NEWS Nine 1,160,000 289,000 376,000 261,000 152,000 81,000
9 A CURRENT AFFAIR Nine 1,143,000 283,000 366,000 279,000 139,000 75,000
10 THE BIGGEST LOSER (AUS) Ten 1,109,000 255,000 365,000 220,000 125,000 144,000
11 ABC NEWS ABC 1,079,000 285,000 342,000 230,000 103,000 119,000
12 WOMEN'S MURDER CLUB Ten 1,032,000 237,000 294,000 241,000 126,000 134,000
16 THE MOMENT OF TRUTH Nine 844,000 233,000 266,000 171,000 81,000 93,000
19 STUFF ABC 741,000 208,000 232,000 131,000 84,000 86,000
23 TERMINATOR: THE SARAH CONNOR CHRONICLES Nine 661,000 167,000 234,000 107,000 83,000 70,000
(OzTAM preliminary estimates, mainland capitals)

What Australia watched, Monday
Description Total Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Adelaide Perth
1 BORDER SECURITY (R) Seven 1,606,000 454,000 454,000 339,000 163,000 196,000
2 CSI Nine 1,540,000 380,000 466,000 318,000 178,000 198,000
3 THE FORCE Seven 1,534,000 415,000 423,000 302,000 172,000 222,000
4 SEVEN NEWS Seven 1,509,000 363,000 420,000 353,000 161,000 211,000
5 TODAY TONIGHT Seven 1,475,000 394,000 385,000 312,000 165,000 220,000
6 HOME AND AWAY Seven 1,415,000 389,000 336,000 340,000 153,000 198,000
7 NINE NEWS Nine 1,345,000 345,000 475,000 281,000 146,000 99,000
8 SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE AUSTRALIA - RESULTS Ten 1,335,000 358,000 428,000 266,000 143,000 141,000
9 A CURRENT AFFAIR Nine 1,264,000 329,000 438,000 272,000 118,000 107,000
10 DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES Seven 1,246,000 357,000 402,000 185,000 121,000 181,000
11 CSI: NY Nine 1,235,000 303,000 372,000 237,000 176,000 146,000
12 ABC NEWS ABC 1,163,000 326,000 369,000 241,000 101,000 126,000
13 THE BIGGEST LOSER (AUS) - ELIMINATION Ten 1,086,000 267,000 407,000 177,000 117,000 118,000
14 A YEAR WITH THE ROYAL FAMILY Nine 1,069,000 299,000 330,000 229,000 96,000 116,000
18 DIRTY SEXY MONEY Seven 874,000 236,000 314,000 131,000 81,000 111,000
22 SUPERNATURAL Ten 770,000 188,000 244,000 155,000 91,000 92,000
23 AUSTRALIAN STORY ABC 761,000 269,000 194,000 145,000 65,000 89,000
31 MYTHBUSTERS SBS 511,000 109,000 159,000 125,000 63,000 55,000

What Australia watched, Sunday
Description Total Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Adelaide Perth
1 SYTYCDA Ten 1,483,000 455,000 396,000 331,000 134,000 167,000
2 SEVEN NEWS - SUN Seven 1,375,000 359,000 324,000 343,000 154,000 195,000
3 60 MINUTES Nine 1,244,000 314,000 364,000 261,000 133,000 171,000
4 GREY'S ANATOMY Seven 1,155,000 386,000 288,000 212,000 105,000 163,000
5 THE BIGGEST LOSER (AUS) - WEIGH-IN Ten 1,139,000 299,000 324,000 264,000 121,000 133,000
6 THE WEDDING CRASHERS Nine 1,109,000 285,000 325,000 196,000 113,000 190,000 7 THE ZOO Seven 1,104,000 345,000 199,000 286,000 116,000 158,000
8 NINE NEWS SUNDAY Nine 1,085,000 270,000 346,000 245,000 147,000 78,000
9 BROTHERS & SISTERS Seven 1,006,000 354,000 298,000 159,000 88,000 106,000
11 BUSH DOCTORS Seven 929,000 267,000 173,000 240,000 99,000 149,000
12 KATH & KIM Seven 926,000 245,000 235,000 212,000 81,000 153,000
13 SAMANTHA WHO? Seven 879,000 263,000 198,000 207,000 78,000 134,000
14 THIS IS YOUR LIFE Nine 877,000 213,000 265,000 193,000 106,000 101,000
16 ROBIN HOOD ABC 724,000 220,000 213,000 131,000 76,000 85,000
18 THE EINSTEIN FACTOR ABC 605,000 156,000 202,000 119,000 80,000 48,000
19 JEKYLL ABC 575,000 165,000 173,000 94,000 63,000 80,000
31 WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE? SBS 368,000 122,000 103,000 73,000 34,000 36,000
(OzTAM preliminary estimates, mainland capitals)

Channel Nine was thanking its god for the Indians last week. Their two cricket finals against the Australians each drew 1.7 million viewers in the mainland capitals, which meant Nine ended the week with 29.1 per cent of the prime time audience, well ahead of Seven's 27.3 per cent and Ten's 22.4. It's unlikely Nine will see another week like that this year, unless it can persuade the Indians to return.

What Australia watched, week ending March 8
RNK Description STN Network Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Adelaide Perth
1 ONE DAY CRICKET - AUS V INDIA - 2ND FINAL SESSION 2 Network 9 1,643,000 484,000 553,000 308,000 167,000 132,000
2 BORDER SECURITY (R) Network 7 1,636,000 427,000 476,000 338,000 178,000 217,000
3 ONE DAY CRICKET - AUSTRALIA V INDIA - 1ST FINAL SESSION 2 Network 9 1,635,000 425,000 575,000 315,000 179,000 141,000
4 SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE AUSTRALIA Network TEN 1,543,000 474,000 514,000 250,000 151,000 154,000
5 RSPCA ANIMAL RESCUE Network 7 1,528,000 373,000 480,000 318,000 146,000 211,000
6 THE FORCE Network 7 1,524,000 373,000 430,000 328,000 159,000 233,000
7 NINE NEWS SUNDAY Network 9 1,495,000 435,000 529,000 240,000 175,000 117,000
8 SEVEN NEWS - SUN Network 7 1,466,000 401,000 388,000 383,000 139,000 154,000
9 RPA Network 9 1,444,000 439,000 432,000 246,000 151,000 177,000
10 SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE AUSTRALIA - RESULTS Network TEN 1,397,000 395,000 476,000 215,000 155,000 156,000
11 SEVEN NEWS Network 7 1,377,000 372,000 360,000 291,000 149,000 205,000
12 CSI Network 9 1,366,000 343,000 426,000 256,000 161,000 179,000
13 DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES Network 7 1,302,000 375,000 432,000 198,000 125,000 172,000
14 TODAY TONIGHT Network 7 1,292,000 349,000 345,000 258,000 144,000 197,000
15 ONE DAY CRICKET - AUS V INDIA - 1ST FINAL SESSION 1 Network 9 1,271,000 381,000 413,000 239,000 127,000 112,000
16 THE ZOO Network 7 1,257,000 399,000 296,000 279,000 141,000 142,000
17 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS Network 7 1,249,000 410,000 307,000 254,000 133,000 144,000
18 GREY'S ANATOMY Network 7 1,248,000 376,000 371,000 226,000 127,000 149,000
19 BONDI RESCUE Network TEN 1,232,000 349,000 393,000 200,000 135,000 155,000
20 DOC MARTIN: ON THE EDGE Network ABC 1,231,000 372,000 351,000 239,000 117,000 152,000
21 UNDERBELLY Network 9 1,226,000 562,000 Not shown 313,000 146,000 206,000
22 NINE NEWS Network 9 1,220,000 318,000 417,000 243,000 144,000 98,000
23 HOME AND AWAY Network 7 1,207,000 354,000 284,000 255,000 137,000 177,000
24 THE REAL SEACHANGE Network 7 1,189,000 288,000 377,000 228,000 111,000 184,000
25 HOUSE Network TEN 1,127,000 313,000 338,000 206,000 122,000 149,000
26 LAW AND ORDER: SVU Network TEN 1,126,000 326,000 300,000 211,000 123,000 166,000
27 IT TAKES TWO Network 7 1,118,000 331,000 316,000 191,000 116,000 164,000
28 BUSH DOCTORS Network 7 1,108,000 323,000 259,000 268,000 124,000 134,000
29 THE BIGGEST LOSER (AUS) - ELIMINATION Network TEN 1,100,000 287,000 370,000 193,000 132,000 118,000
30 CSI: NY Network 9 1,083,000 248,000 328,000 201,000 138,000 167,000
31 GOOD NEWS WEEK Network TEN 1,076,000 318,000 339,000 177,000 134,000 107,000
32 A CURRENT AFFAIR Network 9 1,076,000 292,000 355,000 230,000 118,000 81,000
33 ABC NEWS-SAT Network ABC 1,067,000 300,000 346,000 194,000 96,000 131,000
34 DALZIEL AND PASCOE Network ABC 1,062,000 291,000 322,000 161,000 126,000 163,000
35 THE BIGGEST LOSER (AUS) Network TEN 1,057,000 292,000 347,000 163,000 117,000 139,000
36 THE BIGGEST LOSER (AUS) - THE WEIGH-IN Network TEN 1,054,000 282,000 355,000 192,000 136,000 89,000
37 THE AMAZING RACE Network 7 1,053,000 274,000 340,000 187,000 127,000 125,000
38 GETAWAY Network 9 1,052,000 289,000 317,000 219,000 92,000 135,000
39 SEVEN NEWS - SAT Network 7 1,030,000 281,000 242,000 218,000 125,000 164,000
40 SAMANTHA WHO? Network 7 1,028,000 268,000 289,000 207,000 124,000 140,000
41 NINE NEWS SATURDAY Network 9 1,027,000 295,000 319,000 191,000 139,000 82,000
42 ABC NEWS Network ABC 1,025,000 288,000 315,000 206,000 99,000 117,000
43 BROTHERS & SISTERS Network 7 1,023,000 323,000 338,000 131,000 116,000 115,000
44 ALL SAINTS Network 7 1,021,000 304,000 296,000 174,000 111,000 136,000
45 SPICKS AND SPECKS Network ABC 1,018,000 284,000 371,000 158,000 106,000 99,000
46 THE VICAR OF DIBLEY Network 7 1,014,000 237,000 287,000 212,000 101,000 177,000
47 THE CHOPPING BLOCK Network 9 999,000 291,000 330,000 166,000 107,000 105,000
48 KATH & KIM (R) Network 7 981,000 248,000 286,000 206,000 116,000 126,000
49 WOMEN'S MURDER CLUB Network TEN 976,000 236,000 300,000 190,000 127,000 123,000
50 A YEAR WITH THE ROYAL FAMILY Network 9 974,000 285,000 293,000 183,000 96,000 116,000
51 BACK TO YOU Network TEN 961,000 268,000 274,000 201,000 103,000 114,000
52 DIRTY SEXY MONEY Network 7 959,000 276,000 363,000 108,000 90,000 121,000
53 COLLECTORS (SHORTS) Network ABC 957,000 268,000 289,000 177,000 94,000 130,000
54 LEWIS Network 7 957,000 241,000 274,000 166,000 124,000 151,000
55 MEDIUM Network TEN 936,000 280,000 250,000 177,000 103,000 127,000
(OzTAM)
David Dale is the author of Who We Are -- A snapshot of Australia today (Allen and Unwin). To discuss Australian attitudes, go to http://blogs.sunherald.com.au/whoweare.

COMMENTS

I just find it beyond amazing (and not in a good way) that so many people watch Border Patrol. From the small sections I've seen of it, it's repetitive and more than a bit dull. I just don't get it! And if you asked me what night it was on, I couldn't tell you!

by Beckala on March 09, 2008 at 05:06 PM

Time I pulled my finger out and did my nominations.

Most unnecessary personality: Danny Weidler!!! Tim Bailey, Amrita Cheema and Richard Wilkins.

Most embarrassing program: Biggest Loser and Australian Idol because they actually set out to humiliate people - in one case in the auditions and in the other the entire show.

Most Underrated Program: Life on Mars, East West 101 and Newstopia.

Best Botox: Juanita Phillips and Bert Newton

Furthest Past Their Use by Date: Bert Newton, Richard Wilkins and KAK.

The Black Bogie: Danny Weidler

by Cat on March 10, 2008 at 08:40 AM

Now I love SYTYCDA. I think the dancing is great and I really enjoy the show. But what the heck is going on the Nat B's stylist? She looked great last week but this week I have 2 words. Mutton, dressed, lamb. Dear me!

Anyways I am also highly enjoying the back to the beginning Top Gear on Saturday nights. I can see why that Jason fellow is no longer on the show. Dull. But it's great to see how the show is growing into the one that we now know and love. The granny's doing doughnuts was a hoot!

by Nic on March 10, 2008 at 09:19 AM

RE:Cat
If you think Biggest loser is about humiliating people, then obviously you dont watch the show or the goal of the show. Granted the australian version up plays the drama, but these people know they are fat, we know it too. So how do we humiliate them? By showing them how much bad food they eat? Telling them they will die due to obesity related issues?
If you don't like reality tv thats fine. Most of it is trash, but to say loser is humiliating its contestants is quite absurd.

by WD on March 10, 2008 at 09:36 AM

Just returned from a week in Perth & WA. Does anyone know why the 9 watermark over there is the old 9 logo without the dots?
Dots pop up in some station promos, but not all. What gives? Curious...

by David @ Replay on March 10, 2008 at 10:22 AM

TM,
Surely I must have been the only person watching "Suburban Secrets" last night - it verged on the ridiculous a few times. How did it go in the ratings?

by Samuel on March 10, 2008 at 10:34 AM

David @ Replay, WA Channel 9 isn't owned by the regular National Nein Network. It's owned by WIN (who do actually have the dots) and was bought in Jun 07. It was divested by Alan Bond due to ownership limit laws. Refer to Wikipedia for more info.

Anyhoo I'm back from Spamalot. Act I was excellent. Act II lost its way but overall worth the trip. Now off to check my credit card bill.....

by Bereft Skerrick on March 10, 2008 at 10:54 AM

Did we all appreciate Dr Eddie Everywhere's attempt at 'reality tv' last night on 60 Minutes? Can't wait for the follow-up story on that lovable larrikin Sammy Newman...Perhaps Nine can get Eddy to host RPA or even an animal rescue type show!!!

by cc on March 10, 2008 at 11:12 AM

Wd: If you don't like reality tv thats fine. Most of it is trash, but to say loser is humiliating its contestants is quite absurd.

We will have to agree to disagree - it is entirely a matter of perspective. I did a straw poll of some mates and they were roughly 7-3 in agreement with me but perhaps if you did a poll of your friends you would get a different result. Regardless I doubt either of us would get unamious agreement to our point of view.

by Cat on March 10, 2008 at 11:16 AM

Love this time of the year:
Most unnecessary personality: Richard Wilkins, David Koch
Most embarrassing program: I can only think of Today Tonight
Most Underrated Program: Newstopia, Scrubs
Best Botox: Sigrid Thornton
Furthest Past Their Use by Date: Eddie McGuire
The Black Bogie: Richard Wilkins

by Kym on March 10, 2008 at 11:22 AM

I have to totally agree with Beckala. I have been trying to figure out for the longest time why shows like Border Patrol etc rate at all! They are boring, boring, boring. I think I would rather watch paint dry! Really!! I have only ever browsed these type of programs so have to admit to not ever having watched a whole show but I just dont see the attraction.

But there it is top of the ratings tree yet again.

Someone please explain to me WHY? To repeat Beckala "I just dont get it".

by em on March 10, 2008 at 11:33 AM

TM could you please tell us who won the sunday night ratings? Now that the cricket is over it will be interesting to see the percentages.

Tribal Mind replies: Nine, by about 2 points over Seven. More details tomorrow.

by Anita on March 10, 2008 at 11:33 AM

Cat - who is Danny Weidler? Obviously has not made an impact on this little black duck!
Comments on some programs - to those who said Eureka was great - absolutley - I loved the whole concept - there is humour and quirkiness and I did pick the bad person... or at least the "alleged bad person" because by my guess this will change.
Re Jekyll - caught up on the first ep yesterday very dark but liking James Nesbitt's interpretation - has my interest.
Also watched Friday Night lights, and although a bit too much footy was good

by Cathy on March 10, 2008 at 11:54 AM

How did Ten get 25.7, when on 10am Saturday its audience share was 22.5. That seems like a massive jump in 24 hours considering 9 or 7 usually win Saturday night.

Tribal Mind replies: Well spotted. That was a piece of mischief Nine released, based on audiences aged 18-49. I have now corrected the figures to cover all viewers.

by Michael on March 10, 2008 at 02:55 PM

Re reality shows: most of them are inherently humilating to those who compete in them but as to whether the contestant actually realise that they are humilating is another thing altogether... For example: the other night, on the biggest loser - the contestants had to win a tug of war challenge. Fair enough, not humilating in itself but the extra extra was mud... Watching obese people wallow in mud brings to mind the expression : Pigs in mud. I am not being cruel but was it just me that would have thought that was deliberately designed to conjure that expression? Sand would have done just as well for a slippery surface... The whole weighin process is also a joke, why does it come down to the last contestant as if it all "hinges" on them... no it doesn't . All the contestants are pre-weighed so the producers know how to call the order of the contestants. Shock, horror - they know who will win. But they manipulated it so that the last contestant feels pressured to produce results, regardless of the combined team effort. Load of b/s
Still, the contestants volunteer for this process and most lose weight which is their main goal.
Idol is different, the majority of contestants are humilated but they will never care, they've got their 15 minutes of fame and in many cases, they are deluded so humilation barely registers on their radar. It is only a few that are completely genuine in seeking this as a break in the music business. I can only name four from the last series.
By the way - TM - how did The Interpreter rate? Did audiences abandoned Nic in droves? Kinda cruel of Ten to program Charlotte Gray straight afterwards, not only is it a better movie but it really shows how much better an actor Cate Blanchett is from Nicole....

Tribal Mind replies: 553,000.

by kate on March 10, 2008 at 03:14 PM

Quick question. Do we know when the easter non-ratings period starts?
cheers

by mel on March 10, 2008 at 03:15 PM

David,
May I ask how Compass rated last night? A great end to a great night's entertainment on the ABC. Thanks.

Tribal Mind replies:392,000

by Steve on March 10, 2008 at 03:22 PM

Cathy - Danny Weidler is a rugby league reporter with Ch 9 - I think (but it is more a guess) he use to play. There was a period last year when he was on so much I was wondering if he was sleeping with a producer - he even did a few non-sports stories. Anyway he is so smug he just grates "something severe".
I must clarify nominating poor Amrita Cheema. She is probably a lovely woman but whenever I see her on SBS news I switch over. She is my TV equivalent of nails on a blackboard.
I have not been interested in Jeckyll but apparently Nesbitt was being suggested as a replacement for David Tennant as Dr Who based on his performance in this production. I will leave it up to people who have watched both (in other words not me) to judge whether that makes sense.

by Cat on March 10, 2008 at 03:47 PM

Yes, Cat, agree with Cathy, who is Danny Weilder ... remember I live in the sticks ... Oh, I Yahooed him - a reporter of sport - nuff said and concur!
Jekyll is still great viewing - can't wait til next Sunday.
Beckala & em - I'm with you re Border Insecurity/Patrol , the constant updates before and after every add break - which seem to be every 5 minutes - drive me to distraction. The same boring people trying to sneak the same boring stuff through every week or the customs boat chasing an illegal fishing boat, threatening to shoot, shooting over the bow, boarding, towing boat back to base - nothing happens. Why don't they arm the fishing boat and have a good old-fashioned shoot-out? Or sink the fishing boat, blow it up....
Hey Bereft, re Spamalot, saw Menopause The Musical last weekend and laughed myself stupid - us girls are in for a treat....menopause, I mean.
Ah cc, loved the way you put Sam Newman and animal in the same sentence....classy

by Shoopie on March 10, 2008 at 05:16 PM

To all those asking about Border, my nine year old boys love the show. And they get a good message about not smuggling things into the country. I must admit to not watching it myself. But at 7.30, a 30 minute show that is pretty safe watching for youngish viewers, maybe that is why it rates so well.

by Louise on March 10, 2008 at 06:22 PM

Hmmm. James Nesbitt as Dr Who. Sorry, have seen him in too many other different roles to consider him.

Then again, the first time I saw David Tennant on screen, I said No. Now it's a culture shock when I see Christopher Eccleston.

by Bereft Skerrick on March 10, 2008 at 06:48 PM

Tribal Mind replies: 553,000.
Yikes, it tanked even more than I thought...
I have an answer for why Border Patrol ranks... at least a guess. It is a form of schaudenfreude... for all those who've queued at airports, at least we'd like to know that there is a valid reason & that some people get caught, having said that I never watch it :) I am at uni when it airs

by Kate on March 10, 2008 at 07:33 PM

Shoopie and em - I find watching Border Patrol as repetitive as viewing an episode of Entertainment Tonight - every ad break they replay a preview of each story that is left in the show, meaning that the show's actual new content is about 4 minutes out of 25. So glad to hear it is not just me! I actually prefer some of the NZ ones played on Nein (Mr B's bad taste means he loves Motorway Patrol - it's so bad it's good at times - yet not nearly as repetitive as Border Patrol).
Also, have to say, not surprised at 10s poor ratings for last night's movie - I switched to Wedding Crashers - a movie much more suited to SYTYCDA audience - then changed to Brothers and Sisters to do the chase view thing with my HD recorder. Loving B&S - just a really good quality program. But must say, there was some cursing when I found out it was once again on holidays due to Easter break!
Finally, am awaiting news Re: Scrubs. Apparently Disney (which, in some complicated way is connected to NBC, the tv station they are currently on) has offered to fund a final 8th season of 18/19 episodes (can't remember the specific number) at the end of the writer's strike affected season - fighting with. While i (and many others) would love that, i'm hoping that Bill Lawrence has a good enough story to fill in that much time of the show. I love it, but I don't want it to end poorly just to fill in the gaps.

by Beckala on March 10, 2008 at 08:43 PM

What is it with the two Richard's on The Today Show ? Has Richard Reid left the US to " take up " with Richard Wilkins ? Two dicks , if you ask me . Richard Wilkins for the Black Bogie .

by jane doe on March 11, 2008 at 12:21 AM

All shows featuring "spak-filla" hosts who perform the unnecessary task of telling what we're about to see or what we've just seen. Most one hour shows appear to have about 30 minutes of actual content. Melissa Doyle, Catriona Rowntree, Lisa McClune, Ditch Davies (I think that was his name - the guy who presented Worlds Wildest Zaniest Craziest Police Chases), etc all perform useless tasks.

Unfortunately it will never stop as the networks think their viewers are retarded. The best defence is a set top box / hard disk recorder...you can skip over these useless people in 30 second jumps....ah satisfying!

by wa wa on March 11, 2008 at 06:54 AM

Must say I think taping SYTYCDA on Monday nights is the way to go. I fastforwared through all the boring bits and got through it in around 15-20mins. Not really liking NatBass's fringe, but as a presenter she's getting much better.

Thought Supernatural was great last night. Shame that it was the last ep until late April/May (assuming Ten continue to fast track).

Anyone have any idea of what will be showing will all the shows go on hiatus for easter break?

by krissyg on March 11, 2008 at 09:55 AM

Re: jane doe's comment about the two Richard's on the Today show.

It is often pondered in my household as to the extent of the relationship between Richard Wilkins and Richard Reid. Looks suspiciously like they are more than just good friends. Has anyone else noticed this?

by mel on March 11, 2008 at 10:48 AM

Glad to know that some of my fellow bloggers share my consternation about shows like Border Patrol. I mean, there it is large as life winning Monday again. It does astound me but given there really isnt much on at the same time other than Dance I suppose it shouldnt surprise me.

The viewing public, for the most part, will watch anything rather than nothing. Not sure why as I would rather watch a DVD or read a book than just sit robot like in front of the box for the sake of it and watch whatever garbage the networks throw at us. Seems to work though doesnt it as the ratings tell the story.

And shows that do cater for anyone with half a brain and a bit of taste are sent off to late night time slots when only insominacs are awake to watch.

Finally, to Beckala , I hope your right and there is some hope Scrubs will get another season. Scrubs is a prime example of a show that is never given a fair go by the morons that run the networks.

by em on March 11, 2008 at 11:05 AM

It's unfortunate that CSI is affecting Desperate Housewives because these episodes are some of the funniest ever. It's a shame that Dirty Sexy Money has dropped off so much too, it's starting to get good now. Supernatural is doing badly now after looking so promising a few weeks ago.
Looks like Dance has settled into steady audience numbers for Sundays and Mondays. It's funny how it takes a while for the audience to return to Border Security. It starts off weaker but by the end of the series it ends up being the top show of the night.

Tribal M ind replies: DH is tops with viewers aged 18-54. It's those wretched over 55s who lift the audience for CSI.

by J Bar on March 11, 2008 at 11:33 AM

Really enjoyed a Year with The Royal Family and still enjoying Two and a Half Men. Great seeing Desperate Houswives is back to its great form with new couple of residents, Brothers and Sisters say no more wonderful writing great acting.

To answer the 2 Richards comments I think Richard Reid is doing a show with Scott Cam and someone else a lifestyle type of show.

by Shelly on March 11, 2008 at 12:41 PM

Most unnecessary personality: GRANT DENYER!!!!!!! and the crew from Sunrise

Most embarrassing program: Sunrise

Most Underrated Program: The Circuit and East West 101

Best Botox: Kylie Gillies

Furthest Past Their Use by Date: Richard Wilkins

The Black Bogie: eddie maguire

by Jimi on March 11, 2008 at 12:49 PM

Speaking of questionable relationships, can anyone explain to me what that weird little Spanish guy who's perched in Fast Eddy's kitchen on Better Homes & Gardens is up to?

by Rupert on March 11, 2008 at 01:50 PM

Yes, you are right em when you say the viewing public will watch anything rather than nothing - I know people who turn their sets on first thing in the morning and last thing at night. How they manage to get the kids ready for school without the distraction of TV is beyond me as I remember mine would automatically watch whatever was on. It drives me insane when I go to visit and the TV sits in the corner blaring away with no-one watching ... . I cannot stand trying to hold a conversation with someone over the sound of the TV. A whole generation has grown up thinking that TV provides all their entertainment ... probably haven't read a book since high school English text if even then.

As for James Nesbitt as Dr Who - interesting proposition. Each new character takes some time to get used to but his last few characters have been very dark, ie, Murphy's Law, Jekyll ....plus David Tennant is very cute. I think James McAvoy would be a great Doctor but he is probably more interested in movies now esp after Atonement.

wa - if you ever want to listen to a completely superfluous, unnecessary OTT voice-over just listen to Rebecca Harris "do" Amazing Medical Stories" on Nein on Thurday nights late. She can make an ingrown toenail sound fatal.

by Shoopie on March 11, 2008 at 03:16 PM

Did we all read yesterday in the Guide that 7 has taken the option of another series of Out of the Question - I wish they taken the option of throwing it out of the window!
Thanks Cat for telling me who Danny Weilder was - don't think I missed much!
Loved Supernatural last night - sad it is off now for a while - seems Shirl is putting Law Order on in its place - unlike Wednesdays when they will just repeat House and hope we do not notice.
Now I am not going to watch "moment of truth" the tripe Nein is dishing up this evening but will read with interest any Tribal minder's view on it

by Cathy on March 11, 2008 at 03:47 PM

I'm surprised to read people praising Desperate Housewives.
Apart from the fact that it regularly starts up to 10 minutes late and has ad breaks often up to 4 minutes long, and far too many of them, the storylines are just plain silly.
In the past it was always Susan who was a regular prat, but these days they all act like idiots. It's too much for me, after watching regularly since the first episode, I've now given up on it.

by Sal on March 11, 2008 at 04:13 PM

most unnecessary,peter ford ch9 entertainment reporter/ most underated newstopia/most embarrassing program tie between biggest loser&moment of truth/use-by still bert/black bogie,mike munroe

by john battishall on March 11, 2008 at 09:40 PM

Hi Tribal Mind; just wondering if you have any ratings information for the V8 Supercars on Seven last Sunday (09 / 03), 1 - 5PM.
It was reported in the Motorsports press that the ratings for the Clipsal 500 in February dropped 20% on what they were last year - it would be interesting to see how a round with a lesser profile and status goes in the Sunday arvo timeslot.
Cheers!

Tribl Mind replies: 492,000. If you'd care to explain what that means -- good news or bad, audiences fragmenting, whatever -- it will help in future ratings analysis.

by Garth on March 11, 2008 at 11:05 PM

I need to add 30 Rock to my underrated program nominations.
Monday's episode had Jenna calling for George Bush to hunt down Barack Obama and for Americans to vote for Osama bin Laden. Such a nice snapshot of the great American public's grasp of politics.

by Cat on March 12, 2008 at 08:05 AM

TM,
Any Foreign Correspondent figures?
Thank you.

Tribal Mind replies: 580,000.

by Steve on March 12, 2008 at 08:42 AM

Cathy, I imagine since the host of What A Ridiculous Question is involved with Kath & Kim they're keeping him happy, keeping K & K, and keeping up their local content quota. Plus it's giving comedians unemployed due to TGYH not being on our screens something to do.

by Bereft Skerrick on March 12, 2008 at 09:52 AM

Supernatural was great this week. Shame to see it gone for awhile now. It has been one of those shows I have gone back to after having a break from it. I get bored with it , it gets a bit silly , I tune in again, love it and become a fan again.
Noticed ratings really down for Sarah Connor now. I guess Nein will shove it to some late night slot soon. I watched a little last night and just couldnt get into it.
Reading here that James Nesbitt may be next Dr Who? Not a great choice in my opinion. But then I adore David Tennant and to my mind he IS Dr Who. So I suppose anyone else will be a bit hard for me to accept. And I agree with Shoopie, James McAvoy would be great but as Shoopie says he is more a movie actor these days. Or how about Jonathan Rhys Meyers? (currently King Henry in the Tudors) He is a great actor, young, sexy and I could see him tearing around the galaxy in the Tardis. (take me! take me!)

by em on March 12, 2008 at 10:31 AM

Hi Tribal mind, do you have the ratings for the final of Brat Camp on ABC? Really enjoyed the series and wondered how the final rated. Thanks

Tribal Mind replies: 692,000.

by Amym on March 12, 2008 at 10:52 AM

Moment of Truth did a lot worse than I expected. It won't be around for long. Terminator should be terminated now with those figures. Kitchen Nightmares does well, considering it is squeezed in between these two turkeys.

by J Bar on March 12, 2008 at 11:17 AM

I've only seen James Nesbitt in Murphy's Law and Jekyll, but I think he could do a good Dr.Who. Similarly to a previous poster, I took a couple of episodes to feel comfortable with David Tennant, but yes, I'm having to adjust back to Chris Ecclestone.
OK, ABC stopped making their watermark quite so objectionable, but they have still come up with a truly condescending re-badging of a network no-one was ever going to mistake for something else.
So I don't want to go with their Sesame-Street names, and have a couple of more user-friendly labels so we supposed cretins can tell which ABC station we are watching/discussing.
B1 and B2 spring to mind, but I also like Auntie Blue and Aunty Brown. I could go as far as Bluey and Brownie.

by tafkao on March 12, 2008 at 12:50 PM

My bogie nominations
Most unnecessary personality: Mel and Kochie - boring and overexposed!
Most embarrassing program: Sunrise
Most Underrated Program: Insight, Dateline and SBS News
Best Botox: Richard Reid (the camp dude on Today
Furthest Past Their Use by Date: Richard Wilkins, Karl Stefanovic, and good ole Bert
The Black Bogie: Grant Denyer - or virtually anyone from Sunrise - they all get overexposed and suddenly go from being boring morning presenters to over the top night timew presenters!

by Grant James (GJ) on March 12, 2008 at 01:56 PM

I need to clarify for some people who missed the start of the convo about James Nesbitt. Nesbitt was mentioned early in the year as a possible Dr Who when Catherine Tate (who had just finished filming this year's series) ran off at the mouth in an interview saying David Tennant was over it and would not return after the break he is taking for the next 8 months to do a number of plays for the Royal Shakespeare Company. A few days later when the speculation was going nuts over who would replace him (incl Nesbitt) David Tennant said "hang on a minute - I aint made up my mind and it is at least 12 months before I need to" or words to that effect.

I mentioned Nesbitt here a few days back simply in response to some comments about his performance in Jekyll as that supposedly had a lot to do with him being suggested for Who and I sort the opinions of those who had watched the show. I hope that has cleared up the Chinese Whispers along the course of this week's blog I inadvertently started. ;)

by Cat on March 12, 2008 at 02:06 PM

I think that was just speculation about James Nesbitt as the new doctor. I think he's too old. What about Rupert Penry-Jones (Spooks) or Richard Coyle (Coupling) or Navin Chowdry (Teachers) or Paul Chequer (Sinchronicity).

by J Bar on March 12, 2008 at 02:31 PM

hiya, can you tell me how burn notice did last night (9.30 tuesday)? i wonder how it went conpared to Terminator as we watched both, but 9 changed the time so they are on together...

Tribal Mind replies: 868,000

by beanz on March 12, 2008 at 03:12 PM

While I was watching the Dr Who 2007 Xmas special last night, I took a moment to appreciate how good it was to have NO WATERMARK on the screen at all!
Downloading is the way of the future, especially when the networks treat their viewers so badly.
So ABC1 or whatever you want to label yourself, stick your horrible watermark where the sun don't shine.
P.S. Kylie was good - she could have made a good permanent companion, but alas.....

by Sal on March 12, 2008 at 03:15 PM

I predicted in this very column a couple of weeks ago that "Moment of Truth" would be this years "Yasmin"
Let's see if it gets an episode two in prime time

Tribal Mind remarks: The next two weeks are a so-called "non-ratings period" so Nine won't care if MOT goes down the drain. The question is whether it will come back in official ratings.

by Sahara on March 12, 2008 at 03:16 PM

Dear Mr Dale
How did the First Tuesday crime special (um, 10pm last night, ABC1) rate? Just curious if these specials rate better than the usual show. (Especially with such a popular genre as crime!)
I had to tape the crime special (it clashed with Burn Notice which I'm still enjoying), but will catch up sometime later in the week.
I've missed Jekyll due to an annoying hiccup with recording (it didn't), and couldn't be bothered jumping in with the third episode. And I've deleted all the recordings of Lost I've made this year - I'm never going to catch up with them, unfortunately.

Tribal Mind replies: If that was called "Jennifer Byrne presents", then it got 359,000

by tqd on March 12, 2008 at 03:27 PM

by em on March 12, 2008 at 10:31 AM
Ah, yes well Tom Baker will also be THE Doctor for me, although I really enjoy David Tennant's version. The trouble with David's tenure as the Doctor is that he wants to do other projects so this year the series is reduced to four specials? With all the other Doctors (& early David) you got a whole series... Oh what it is to have bargaining power with a TV network... get paid GBP 1 million & do 4 specials....

by Kate on March 12, 2008 at 03:31 PM

Most unnecessary personality: Kyle
Sandilands
Most embarrassing program: The chopping block (shudder)
Most Underrated Program: Good News Week (getting better every week)
Best Botox: Sigrid Thornton
Furthest Past Their Use by Date: Andrew O'Keefe
The Black Bogie: David Koche

by suze on March 12, 2008 at 04:09 PM

re the Dr Who debate I think with David Tennant they should have built into his contract a proviso that he stay on for at least 3 full seasons and only commit to outside projects when filming had finished - this flip flopping with different actors playing the DR does become irritating - you get use to one actor playing the role and then his contract finishes and you have to find another.
The beauty of having Jon Pertwee and Tom Baker in the roles is that they hung around for longer than one season. What about an older dude like Ian McKellar from
Lord of the Rings - he would be a little eccentric and would probably be willing to hang around a little longer - maybe they could choose a female actor - dame judi dench perhaps!!

by GJ on March 12, 2008 at 04:15 PM

Scrubs update: John C McGinley from Scrubs has done an interview this week confirming that they have signed for 18 more episodes, with ABC instead of NBC. NBC apparently wouldn't commit past the six episodes that they have in the can - leaving the series in the lurch. Bill Lawrence had considered releasing the final eps on dvd, but now it seems that ABC has saved the day and signed them on, to begin shooting in March, to be shown in the next 'fall' season in America (September/October I'm guessing). The final episodes on NBC don't really lead anywhere - they just stop, no cliffhanger or anything like that, so thank god for ABC.
HOORAY!!! Can't wait for the new eps to air.

by Beckala on March 12, 2008 at 05:07 PM

by em on March 12, 2008 at 10:31 AM
Agree with you re Supernatural, I stopped watching it for a while and had every intention not to watch this season, but I find that I'm really loving it again. And it doesn't hurt that the boys are so easy on the eyes!

by krissyg on March 12, 2008 at 05:14 PM

Firstly, regarding James Nesbitt as the Doctor, I don't reckon he can pull it off - sorry to the fans out there, although he is good as Jackman/Hyde/Jekyll. Ah, James McAvoy would be perfect as the Doctor, but yeh, agreeing with Shoopie, he's probably more into films now. Alas, David Tennant is a hard act to follow...
Most Unnecessary Personality: David Koch
Most Embarrassing Program: A Current Affair (how can it call its program that when it's not?)
Most Underrated Program: Newstopia & 30 Rock (it's improved since the first few episodes)
Best Botox: Nelson Aspen (the Hollywood reporter on Sunrise), Richard Wilkins and Richard Reid too
Furthest Past Their Use by Date: Kyle Sandilands
The Black Bogie: David Koch (he should stick to what he knows best - finance)

by yarp on March 12, 2008 at 11:50 PM

With the cooking shows going great guns on FTA tv will nine be screening gordons hell kitchen?
Probally not.

by sous chef on March 13, 2008 at 07:44 AM

I want to apologise for being loose with my words and getting lost trying to type sought and ending up with sort. I' ll try not to lose my way again.
Kate there will be 13 episodes in 2008 - it is during 2009 that there will only be 4 specials. Mind you I am waiting to see if I can handle 13 episodes of Catherine Tate. There will only be 5-6 with Martha and 2 with Capt Jack and the prodigal Rose.
Beckala given the swap of networks in the States for Scrubs will that affect who has the rights here in Oz?

by Cat on March 13, 2008 at 08:03 AM

Hey Cat, you could one of those "reliable sources" quoted in the women's mags? :0
Missed all TV last night due to "socialising" with visitors - may they rot in hell, didn't they realise it was S & S night and due to a certain liquid consumption I forgot to record it.....consequently, am as tired as a newt today.

by Shoopie with TIC on March 13, 2008 at 10:37 AM

TM,
Do you have any ratings figures for Stupid Stupid Man last night? Great to see the ABC bringing it to FTA.
Thanks.

Tribal M ind replies: In the chart now.

by Ryan on March 13, 2008 at 12:11 PM

Mr Dale,
Do you know how Life Begins went in the ratings on Tuesday night?
Thank you.

Tribal Mind replies: 696,000.

by Elizabeth on March 13, 2008 at 12:13 PM

Re the Dr Who debate. I know I said that David Tennant was for me Dr Who, but I also loved Tom Baker from the old eps so much at the time that I named my daughter Sarah Jane after the good Doctor's assistant at the time. But
since David came on the scene I changed my mind. Still I suppose we could do a whole blog debating the merits of various Drs and everyone would have their own favs and reasons for and against.

I must admit I didnt realise that Catherine Tate is around for most of this season. I dont know if I can stand it as I really dont like her. And it is will be disappointing if David goes but it is obviously inevitable as he is an actor that had a career before the Dr and no doubt wont do it forever.

Perhaps it would be better for them to go with an older actor next time , one that may stick around for a few series. They can always bring in Capt Jack for guest spots to ad that sex appeal angle.

And does anyone know if Ten is going to show Torchwood this year or should I download?

by em on March 13, 2008 at 12:32 PM

For Shoopie re S&S - last nights episode is repeated on ABC2 tonight (Thursday) at 8pm if you can get it

by emurray on March 13, 2008 at 12:43 PM

Am I imagining it or are most of our morning presenters (Kochie and Mel, karl stefaboring and those two richards) a bit on the nose at the moment - they are attracting a lot of bogie nominations and rightly so - the morning programs have become nothing more than 3 hours of fluff and nonsense - its all about which screaming hollywood queen can scream the loudest and which baby formula works best for mums on the run - it's really insulting to watch and a far cry from the days when morning TV would screen half decent stories with a bit of depth.

AND nighttime current affairs is no better -A CURRENT AFFAIR has become an absolute joke - last night they had several supposedly 'current affairs' stories that were just complete fluff stories - one story was about Dawn Fraser having a barny with a lebanese cleaner - it might have been a half decent story if they'd had dawn or the cleaner to interview but niether were prepared to talk on camera so we had blown up pictures of the story taken from THE DAILY TELEGRAPH and a reporter outside Dawn's place whispering some garb about why she had been in dispute with the cleaner - it was a nothing yarn. TODAY TONIGHT usually offer the same dribble.

Am I the only one to think so called current affairs journalism on commerical TV has been watered down to absolute tabloid junk - not even worth watching late at night, never mind in prime time!

by GJ on March 13, 2008 at 12:47 PM

Cat posted: Beckala given the swap of networks in the States for Scrubs will that affect who has the rights here in Oz?

From what I can tell, most of the shows on ABC are screened on Seven anyway - Lost, DH, GA, Samantha Who. The idea for ABC is that they would pair it with Samantha Who to try to get an hour of strong comedy - which would be a lovely Thursday 7:30pm option, Channel 7!! Doesn't affect me though, I tend to stream it, as the wait was just too long, and they stuffed season 6 around so much.

by Beckala on March 13, 2008 at 01:24 PM

I often get a laugh at this blog but never more so than when Shoopie used my name in the same sentence as the word reliable. Last time that will happen.
Em you might appreciate the Sarah Jane Adventures which I believe the ABC has bought. It is a kids show with an earth bound Sarah Jane with a bunch of kids. I downloaded it largely for my 12 year old niece (who loved it) but I very much enjoyed it too in a low key way. (It is definitely not meant as adult fare). K9 makes a couple of appearances. Interestingly when I told my niece at the weekend that they were making a second series of it she commented that Sarah Jane was much prettier now than in the original series. All women over 50 (I am not there just yet) should appreciate the sentiment.
Catherine Tate will be offset by the reappearance of one of my favourite villians, the Sontarans. And rumour (strictly rumour at this point) has it that it was not Lucy who picked up the Master's ring at the end of the last series but the Rani.
Oh and I just watched the latest Torchwood em and whilst like all shows it has its better episodes overall I think the second series is a big improvement on the first.
Better go do some work and forget Dr Who and spinoffs for a while.

by Cat on March 13, 2008 at 01:29 PM

Ch 10 signed up to two series of Torchwood but considering that the first series didn't rate well, it might go straight to TEN HD. Ch 9 bought two series of Hotel Babylon but they still haven't screened the second series. Maybe it'll end up on 9 HD.

by J Bar on March 13, 2008 at 01:41 PM

Not that I care, but I believe Nine were looking to do an Aus version of Moment of Truth and that may have been a wiser option, rather than screen the US version.
For any readers who can recall the short lived 'Sit Down, Shut Up' comedy show Ten screened (and axed, due to poor ratings) 8 years ago, the Arrested Development show's creator Mitch Hurwitz is looking to re-adapt it as an animated series for the Fox network. The show revolved around the lives of 7 dysfunctional high school staff members in a small northeastern fishing town and centred on faculty members, as their own egos and personal agendas trumped the students' needs. Unless older, cancelled Aus TV shows get shown on US cable TV, it'd be interesting knowing how he came to see it.

by Tony on March 13, 2008 at 03:00 PM

by J Bar on March 12, 2008 at 02:31 PM
I too thought of Rupert Penry Jones as a replacement Doctor Who but think he is too pretty and might be like Peter Davidson who didn't really gel with being the Doctor.... My suggestion would be Andrew Lincoln... A good looking guy who can act equally serious & cheeky like David Tennant does....

by Kate on March 13, 2008 at 03:49 PM

by Cat on March 13, 2008 at 08:03 AM
Oh, I will very much enjoy 13 eps with Catherine Tate... Not placing money on it but I could bet that with Donna (Catherine's) character, we won't be subjected to the sappy soppy syrupy lovey-dovey storylines that have crept in with the last two Doctor's assistants... I suppose I should be more update and visit the BBC Doctor Who site... but then I am not really a card carrying Whovian, just enjoy watching the series... Ps To those who dismissed some actors as potential Doctor Who on the basis that they are too old.... Doctor Who is supposedly some 913 years old so any actor under that age can play him :o) ...

by Kate on March 13, 2008 at 03:59 PM

Love this time of the year too:
Most unnecessary personality: Richard Reid - He is going to be on a new nine program as well as today!
Most embarrassing program: The Footy Show NRL!
Most Underrated Program: 30 Rock - It Rocks x 30
Best Botox: Mel Doyle (Though I think there are more enhacments there than botox, David, can you do a before and after shot?)
Furthest Past Their Use by Date: Jackie O - Give up Channel 10, she doesnt work hosting any program, She expired before her career started!
The Black Bogie: Shelly Craft - She actually claimed she helped Seven claim No. 1 in the ratings, c'mon I hate to break it to here, Perfect Match was not a success!

by CheckonIt on March 13, 2008 at 04:31 PM

Thanks emurray - have posted a note on the TV!!!
I was watching a recording of U/belly that ran on and recorded Dame Edna interviewing the guys from Little Britain omigod it was cringeworthy, I reckon Bazza should hang up his corset and wig now.

by Shoopie on March 13, 2008 at 04:41 PM

My 2008 noms:
Most Unnecessary Person: Grant Denyer - self-explanatory
Most Underrated Show: Life on Mars - one of the many gems on ABC.
Best Botox: Juanita Phillips ... used to be gorgeous but now creepy
Most Embarrassing Show: Moment of Truth - have not seen it, will never see it, the idiot who thought the whole premise would rate as entertainment needs to re-enrol at kindie.
Furthest Past Use By Date: Dame Edna - one of her treatments is as entertaining as a dose of Epsom salts.
Black Bogie: Dickie Wilkins - get a haircut and get a real job.

by Shoopie on March 13, 2008 at 05:06 PM

TM,
How did the new ep of CSI: Miami do in Melbourne last night?
Thanks.

Tribal Mind replies: 310,000. Is there anything interesting about this information?

by Samuel on March 13, 2008 at 05:34 PM

New news on some shows.
Prison Break : likely to be renewed for a final 4th season,
then it's getting a women in prison spin-off series.
Sarah Connor series : getting renewed to take advantage of next year's Terminator 4 movie.
Moonlight : likely to be renewed.
Bones : renewed.
Las Vegas : cancelled, without getting advance notice to finish the series off.
Cashmere Mafia : cancelled. It obviously didn't rate high enough and being a show that's genuinely filmed in New York city, would've made it a hugely expensive show to make.

by Anne on March 13, 2008 at 09:56 PM

Good to see Liam Bartlett - reporter on 60 MINUTES criticising his own show and the Nine network for pathetic currrent affairs reporting - he may lose his job but at least he recognises how lame current affairs reporting has become - especially o Nine!.

Interesting to note that A CURRENT AFFAIR dropped below the 1 million mark last night - glad to see some viewers at least recognise shoddy cheap reporting of nothing stories - its a shame TODAY TONIGHT still rates well - its the same sort of rubbish but obviously Anna Coren and her Mike Moore voice is a crowd puller!

by GJ on March 14, 2008 at 09:16 AM

Hey, Cat. Thanks for the info. I had herad of the Sarah Jane Adventures. So I will keep an eye out for it when it screens here. My own , now grown up, Sarah Jane, may like it for a giggle too.

I shall have to download Torchwood now as it seems Ten probably wont show it. I suppose I can hope Foxtel screen it as UKTV are showing season 1 at the moment. But I cant wait so I will get the son to do it for me. I havent learnt the fine art yet as that's what kids are for arent they?

Lost is really "lost" in the ratings now. Wonder if 7 will screen anymore eps once these few are over with. I wont be surprised to see it moved to a late night slot. Pity as I have liked this season best so far.

And I am loving "Life on Mars". Defintely the most underrated show on TV. It is just brilliant.

by em on March 14, 2008 at 09:59 AM

The comment earlier about Melissa Doyle before and after. After some google searching compare 2008 with http://wiki.mediaspy.org/index.php/Image:Vlcsnap-10651711.jpg

by Darryl on March 14, 2008 at 10:46 AM

I cannot believe 1.2 million people actually watch The Footy Show ... I was channel surfing last night after LOM & watched 5 seconds of Fatty's flatulence and that was 5 seconds too much. You would think with all the money that footy players earn that they would splash out and spend some money on a voice coach or elocution lessons or something so they don't sound like boofheads.
I was watching Shirley's late news and watched Matt Doran's report on the fires in Adelaide's hills - not quoting as I cannot remember his exact words just the glaring mistake as follows .... "one of the firefighters had their face burnt". Their face??? Good grief ...
Note to TM: Should we be addressing you as WWA now since TM is defunct? Or would you prefer Mr Dale?

by Shoopie on March 14, 2008 at 11:13 AM

Wow, Lost is doing really badly, isn't it? Crap! Still, I don't think Seven will dump it. It's an iconic show and I think they'll respect that.
About Doctor Who, I will be very happy when David Tennant leaves. I just don't see him as the Doctor - for me he's just a superficial little poseur desperately trying to act manic and eccentric. Not a patch on the incredible Tom Baker.

by Fielding on March 14, 2008 at 11:23 AM

Disappointed to see Lost doing so poorly especially when the show is firing on all cylinders in its 4th season.
I'm enjoying Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares but not enough to make it appointment television. I'm shocked by the language in it, though. Not shocked that blue language abounds in the restaurant biz but shocked that so many f-words are being dropped in an 8:30pm timeslot. I'm not a prude at all, it's just not what I'm used to. I remember when they used to butcher The Sopranos to soften the language and that was in a 9:30pm slot.

by Craig on March 14, 2008 at 12:13 PM

Bum, bum, BUM. Worked late last night and didn't tape TAR!! BUGGER!

I hate it when you watch every episode and miss the last one. Seems like this series started so long ago.

I know who won (thanks google), can any one tell me whether I missed a good ending or not?

by Nic on March 14, 2008 at 12:25 PM

Sorry to disappoint you, Fielding, but Seven doesnt usually show respect to viewers as a rule eg, Scrubs, Arrested Development, Stargate all stuffed around. So dont hold your breath that they wont do the same with Lost now the ratings are going down rapidly.
The almighty ratings rule, unfortunately.

by em on March 14, 2008 at 01:07 PM

by Darryl on March 14, 2008 at 10:46 AM
Is that the same person? Now a fate worse than death awaits me .... will have to watch Sunrise just to make sure...the things I do in the name or research.

by Shoopie on March 14, 2008 at 01:21 PM

Re: CSI Miami ratings - The only interesting this is even without Underbelly, Nine have been having either narrow or solid wins in Melbourne lately. It appears they're finally clawing some ground back. Another big night for them last night - I bet they wish they hadn't wasted two seasons of UK Ramsay's Kitchen Nightmares over summer.

by Samuel on March 14, 2008 at 01:45 PM

hey david. i asked before but i didnt get an answer? how can ramseys kitchen nightmares be on at 8.30 with all that swearing? im sure the word cunt isnt allowed on tv b4 10.30 is it?

Tribal Mind replies: You did get an answer. It's allowed after 8.30, on a limited basis.

by ryan on March 14, 2008 at 02:02 PM

Further to my question (10/3) regarding everyone appreciating Dr Eddie's effort on 60 minutes it seems like that it's own reporter Liam Bartlett did not! I wonder how long he'll keep his job for...

by cc on March 14, 2008 at 02:24 PM

Lost is spoilt by ad breaks. It is much better without ads.Try a recorded or B/T episode .Watching 2 episodes together without ads is the best.

by danny on March 14, 2008 at 02:27 PM

I just don't get it 7.
Watching Lost drop viewers like the biggest Loser drops kilos is simply embarrassing and unacceptable. Why oh why don't they get it back to 8.30? There are still 2 more seasons locked in from the US and Seven could save themselves from obliteration every Thurs night. Does anyone know the real truth? Surely the same programmers who resurrected the network 2 years ago are not the same ones doing this now....

by Daniel in Dubai on March 14, 2008 at 06:23 PM

In regards to Lost (that's getting 5 new eps made), I'd expect Seven to eventually move it to a 10.30 pm timeslot.

by Toni on March 14, 2008 at 09:52 PM

Nic you asked about the TAR ending - seemed to be an easier ending than in the past - no real brain teasers at the end unlike the flag thing with the hippies.. although they tried to build the suspense between the model boys & Rob & Kim think the boys had a pretty good lead .. the bama girls were way behind. Really want to see the latest TAR as I believe it had some interesting pairs - goths, lesbian reverends... nobody said the US was bland now did they?
Shoopie can't believe you even lasted 5 seconds on a footy show.... really?! Gave you more credit than that...

by Cathy on March 15, 2008 at 01:01 AM

Cathy, it was late ... I was tired, suffering Tim Tam withdrawals and suffered the deadly finger fumble in my haste to change channels....

by Shoopie on March 15, 2008 at 09:45 AM

I used to watch the Footy Show when I lived in Sydney I assume it aint improved.
Watched a show called The Barefoot Rugby League show on NITV,they should make that bunch of fools on the NRL show sit down and take lessons.
I see by the remarks here that FTA is still the same load of junk,I wonder what 9 is worth now, that bunch that brought it paid over the odds methinks,NRL has started so i can watch that on Pay here in never never land(Perth).

by john Ryan on March 15, 2008 at 10:28 AM

For Burn Notice show fans, Ten are apparently dumping the show, 2 episodes short of it's first season, to make way for NCiS season 5 (which most Aus NCIS fans would've downloaded, due to Ten taking so long to screen it) at
8.30 pm Tuesday March 25.
For Big Love show fans, SBS have slotted season 2 for Saturday May 10, but as they've taken too long to screen it (it aired in June 07), most Aus fans would've downloaded it.
The Friday Night Lights series started on 10HD on Friday of last week. This is sensible, as it'd rate abysmally for them on their normal channel. I caught this week's 2nd ep (that started past 12 am because of Peter Jackson's self indulgent, overlong King Kong film) and found it to be on the dull side, but it may take a few episodes to get into.

by Rod on March 15, 2008 at 11:06 AM

by Samuel on March 14, 2008 at 01:45 PM
Hmmm, no I don't think that Ch9 was concerned about airing Ramsay over summer period... They will just repeat those episodes which aired in summer again when they've run out of new eps... Networks at the moment seem to care little about repeating things adnauseum....

Tribal Mind remarks: That's because the viewers don't seem to care either.

by Kate on March 15, 2008 at 12:11 PM

Em, Stargate, Arrested Development and Scrubs were not on the same level as Lost (I adore Arrested Development but I think it had a late timeslot from the beginning). I am certain we'll never see it at 10.30 or later.
Still, it's frustrating seeing it rate so low. In the US ,while not recording the great numbers it got initially, it's still getting about 12 million a week. It should be doing much better here.

by Fielding on March 15, 2008 at 06:00 PM

Tribal Mind remarks: That's because the viewers don't seem to care either.
Kate concurs: Too true, too true...

by Kate on March 15, 2008 at 08:40 PM

Cathy, it was late and I was suffering from Tim Tam withdrawals and gross stupidity.

Tribal Mind asks: I've lost track of this thread. What was it you did again?

by Shoopie on March 16, 2008 at 01:57 PM

TM,
May I ask how two 10:30pm shows, Amazing Medical Stories on Tuesday and Sensing Murder on Wednesday, went in the ratings? I've been watching a bit of late night TV lately...
Thanks in advance.

Tribal Mind replies: AMS 366,000; SM 445,000

by Ryan on March 17, 2008 at 12:56 PM

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