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Monday, November 9, 2009

Magazines
Hachette shutters Metropolitan Home
Monthly is just the latest shelter title to close as the pains of the ad recession deepen. Category is off 40 percent in ad pages.

Overnights
Hefty ratings for 'Sunday Night Football'
NBC's Cowboys-Eagles game pulls a 14.3 in households, its second-best rating this season behind September's Cowboys-Giants game

Overnights
'20/20' soars with Rihanna interview
ABC newsmagazine hits three-year high among 18-34s, averaging a 2.3 rating, and boosts network to a tie for first for the night in 18-49s

Television
Led by baseball, Fox is No. 1 in sweeps
Averages a 5.3 in adults 18-49, double last year's rating and well ahead of ABC with a 2.8, thanks to Yanks' World Series win

TV Reviews
'The Wanda Sykes Show,' not funny
On her new talk show on Fox, the comedian rants on, believing that if you're offensive people will find you funny. They don't.

Survey
So tell us, what's your department like?
Is it highly structured or loosey-goosey and creative? Do people get along well? When disputes arise, how are they resolved?

Here & there
CBS's 'Strikeforce' tops ABC's football
Other shorts: Ratings-wise, a solid debut for 'Sykes' - In Boston, a new Spanish-language weekly - A&E Networks cuts 100 jobs after Lifetime merger - Viewership bump for Univision's Latin Grammys

TV This Week
On 'Gossip Girl,' three's not a crowd
But expect a huge crowd tuning into the steamy teen soap to catch a threesome, thanks in part to thundering by the PTC

Out of home
Your client in front of stores
Catching the attention of this year's holiday shoppers, be it street teams handing out samples or elaborate product demonstrations

Alternative media
For these runners, let the race begin
Big stink: Col. Sanders at the UN
The growing clout of digital signage
A classic white dress shirt, on the cuff

People
Ray Mabus guesting on 'NCIS'
Real-life Secretary of the Navy will appear on the Nov. 24
episode of the CBS naval drama Eric Sherling becomes producer at ABC's 'Good Morning America'
Kiersten Hollars becomes AOL senior director of communications
Ryan J. Reilly becomes reporter at Main Justice
Mark Schone becomes managing editor at Blotter
Joe Brown becomes VP of research at Versus
'Girls Gone Wild' founder Joe Francis agrees to plea deal
Julianne Moore guesting on NBC's '30 Rock'
Elliott Gould appearing on NBC's 'Law & Order'
Michael Trucco and Virginia Williams joins USA's 'Facing Kate'
The Jonas Brothers re-up at Disney Channel

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Overnights
Fox edges out CBS for a Monday win
Averages a 4.0 in 18-49s to CBS's 3.9, led by 'House,' the night's No. 1 show with a 5.1. CBS's 'Big Bang' is No. 2 with a 4.5.

Television
Magic gone, ABC's 'Eastwick' is axed
Network will drop the first-year drama after its remaining episodes air. Also chopped: 'Let's Dance.' ABC says let's not

Television
Huge DVR lift for 'Fringe' and 'Dollhouse'
Low-rated Fox shows are top gainers in playback over seven days, but it's unlikely to save them from cancellation (chart)

TV Reviews
'Lopez Tonight,' George being George
TBS talk show bubbles along on the energy of its host, and while he plays the ethnic card the show is really quite mainstream

Magazines
For magazines, a smarter sort of pay wall
Maggwire is gearing up to offer readers select content from a range of titles, much the way iTunes offers music by the song

Magazines
Hachette shutters Metropolitan Home
Monthly is just the latest shelter title to close as the pains of the ad recession deepen. Category is off 40 percent in ad pages.

Here & there
BBDO Detroit is shutting down
Other shorts: A big shakeup at the Washington Times - Programming notes: NBC's funny business - Rupe: We will sue the sites who steal from us

TV This Week
Celebrating that bit of Elmo in us all
'Sesame Street' airs the premiere of its 40th season, with First Lady Michelle Obama appearing to teach kids about gardening

People
Mitchell Scherzer becomes CFO at Hearst
The former Goldman Sachs banker will join the publisher
on Nov. 16 Leon Wilson becomes creative group head at Fallon
Eric Healy, Matt Lindley and Barry Fiske join Sapient Interactive
Serena Duff becomes EVP and managing partner at Horizon Media
Peter Dunn rises to president at CBS TV Stations
Debbie Reichig becomes SVP of business development at CC Outdoor
Abbe Wright joins O, The Oprah Magazine
Adam Bookbinder rises to design director at Departures
Derek Wallbank becomes Washington correspondent at MinnPost
Reid Wilson becomes Hotline On Call editor at National Journal Group
Jocelyn Voo becomes senior web editor at Family Circle

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Overnights
Spooked: 'V' takes post-debut ratings hit
Averages a 3.7 in 18-49s, off 26 percent from last week but still second in its 8 p.m. timeslot, boosting ABC to No. 2 on the night

Cable
Solid debut for TBS's 'George Lopez'
Latest late-night show averages 3 million total viewers, airing on three Turner networks, but the real test is how many will stick around

Broadcast recap
Rihanna and Andre, talking straight
'20/20' and '60 Minutes' see big ratings lifts airing tell-all chats with the one-name pop star and tennis great Agassi (charts)

Cable recap
For 'Mad Men,' a crowd-pleasing finale
The season-ender is up 33 percent in total viewers, and in a departure its creator ties up some loose strings (charts)

Alternative media
In Series signage, Phillies hit a homer
Yes, they lost to the Yankees in the big playoff, but infield ads for Phillies.com got free TV exposure valued at $30.5 million

Survey
So tell us, what's your department like?
Is it highly structured or loosey-goosey and creative? Do people get along well? When disputes arise, how are they resolved?

Here & there
Nielsen: Americans' TV habit is growing
Other shorts: Letterman defendant: Please toss this case - Poll: Walling off sites will hurt newspapers - Programming notes: Food finds country's worst cook

TV This Week
'The real story behind the real thing'
CNBC promises to reveal secrets about Coca-Cola in a profile of the soft drink giant as it searches for the next hit beverage

People
Fox News critic Anita Dunn leaving White House
The interim communications director accused the network
of carrying out a right-wing agenda. Anton Guitano rises to COO of CBS Local Media
Richard Barry rises to on-air creative director at Nickelodeon International
Roni Patel and Rita Akkari rise at WB International TV Distribution
Katherine Pushkar becomes lifestyle editor at Better Homes and Gardens
Katy Herniman becomes food director at Men's and Women's Health
Joey Levin becomes CEO at Mindspark
Melody Goede becomes business development director at LA Digital Post
Reality dad Jon Gosselin countersuing TLC
Gabrielle Anwar and Craig Sheffer join Hallmark's 'Murder Among Friends'
Donald Trump and Omarosa working on TV One reality series

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Overnights
Spooked: 'V' takes post-debut ratings hit
Averages a 3.7 in 18-49s, off 26 percent from last week but still second in its 8 p.m. timeslot, boosting ABC to No. 2 on the night

Cable
Solid debut for TBS's 'George Lopez'
Latest late-night show averages 3 million total viewers, airing on three Turner networks, but the real test is how many will stick around

Broadcast recap
Rihanna and Andre, talking straight
'20/20' and '60 Minutes' see big ratings lifts airing tell-all chats with the one-name pop star and tennis great Agassi (charts)

Cable recap
For 'Mad Men,' a crowd-pleasing finale
The season-ender is up 33 percent in total viewers, and in a departure its creator ties up some loose strings (charts)

Alternative media
In Series signage, Phillies hit a homer
Yes, they lost to the Yankees in the big playoff, but infield ads for Phillies.com got free TV exposure valued at $30.5 million

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Overnights
Modest uptick for ABC's CMA awards
Country music special averages a 5.2 in 18-49s, up 4 percent over last year, and a 5.7 in women 18-34, its best since 2004

Cable
Lou Dobbs quits CNN: 'America calls'
Longtime news anchor was presented with an ultimatum, can the advocacy or move on. Expect a replacement to be named today.

Television
Axed: ABC's 'Hank' and Fox's 'Dollhouse'
'Hank' yanked after finishing behind CW and Univision in its most recent outing, while 'Dollhouse' was already off the schedule during sweeps

Television
Sweeps race for No. 2: ABC or CBS?
The two are tied behind Fox, averaging 2.7/8 in 18-49s. ABC has more stunts, but it will need its regular shows to perform.

Alternative media
Kiss and tell: Flash mob in red wax lips
They emerge from the crowd, dancing to the beat of 'Kiss Your Assets Goodbye.' Client: Nevada, where there's no income tax.

Research
The new paradigm: Seeing is believing
Allowing the consumer to experience a product, ideally digitally, is the new advertising. Talking with Razorfish's Garrick Schmitt.

Newspapers
Mystery deepens at Washington Times
Other shorts: Current zaps 80 employees in reformatting - Programming notes: Fox orders 'Our Little Genius' - Study: Fewer okay with mobile advertising

TV This Week
Sweeps special: A 'CSI' round robin
In a first, a storyline plays across all three versions of the long-running CBS series, its final segment airing on the original

People
Ben Hurst returns to MTV
He becomes VP of strategy at MTV Networks Entertainment
Group after a stint at Joost Vic Palumbo becomes director of integrated production at Deutsch L.A.
Mark Stojack becomes senior leader at Walton|Isaacson
Carrie Byrne and Corey Pilkington rise at Worktank
Todd Zander rises to VP of digital media distribution at Discovery
Julie Davenport rises to VP and GSM at CBS Interactive Music Group
Aljit Joy rises to SVP of strategy at Comcast
Lance Richard becomes VP of digital sales at Entercom
Toronto Sun editor Lou Clancy retires
Kara Corridan becomes health editor at Parents magazine
Rob Weisbord rises to director of digital interactive marketing at Sinclair

Friday, November 13, 2009

Overnights
'CSI' triple play brings hefty ratings kick
CBS show averages a 4.0 in 18-49s, up 14 percent over last week and best since Oct. 1 with storyline that crosses all three series

Research
Readers: We're pretty happy at work
Planners and buyers are mostly positive about their bosses and co-workers, with many seeing them as their second family

Magazines
Bunny hop? Playboy is up for sale.
Or that's the word from London Fog owner Iconix, the reported bidder. But magazine founder Hef would have to approve the deal.

TV Reviews
'Super Dave's Spike-Tacular,' dumb
Proving again that spoofs of bad TV can be bad TV, this Spike four-parter features Bob Einstein playing a bumbling stuntman

Rachel speaks!
Rachel, the whining is driving me nuts
The writer, a media supervisor, complains that she's surrounded by 24-year-olds who won't stop crabbing. What should she do?

Alternative media
A not-so-funny Paris Hilton billboard
Beneath a picture of her head is the word 'Vacant,' and the celeb-model-reality star is threatening suit. She likely has a case.

Here & there
Washington Times editor steps down
Other shorts: Study: Lopez tops other new late-night hosts - NBC's Fallon falls behind Ferguson and Kimmel - Alloy: Students' buying power rises in recession

TV This Week
Best tube bets this weekend
Friday: MLS showdown on ESPN2; Saturday: Syfy's original movie 'Ice Twisters;' Sunday: Patriots-Colts on NBC's 'SNF'

People
Jeffrey Tambor joins NBC pilot
Former 'Arrested Development' actor will play a psychiatrist
in 'Rex Is Not Your Lawyer'
Gary Wenzel becomes president at TBWA\WorldHealth
Pilar Lamadrid rises to VP of specials at Telemundo
Tom Staggs and Jay Rasulo switch jobs at Disney
Laverne McKinnon becomes EVP of programming at Epix
NY Daily News' David Ng and Marilyn Matlick leaving
Steven White becomes West Division president at Comcast
Marketing Research Association CEO Larry Brownell steps down
Stephen A. Smith returns to the Philadelphia Inquirer
Gary Parsons resigns as Sirius XM Radio chairman
'Wipeout' contestant and former radio DJ Tom Sparks dies at age 33

Monday. Nov. 2, 2009

Overnights
Big chill for CBS's Sunday dramas
'Cold Case' falls to a series-low 1.6 in 18-49s, down 11 percent from last week as lead-in 'Three Rivers' averages a 1.7

Television
Media buyers: November belongs to Fox
Pick the network to come in first in the sweeps period, and also say it's the most improved broadcast network, ahead of ABC

Sports TV
Another home run for World Series
Game three draws best Saturday audience since January, 15.4 million total viewers, with Fox on pace for best numbers since 2004

Overnights
CBS scares up a Friday night win
Spooky lineup dominates with a 1.9 adults 18-49 rating, with 'Ghost Whisperer' the night's top show with a 2.0

TV Reviews
'Big Bang Theory,' in the sweet spot
Ratings are way up for the CBS sitcom, now in season three, as the show's writers and actors settle into a groove

Here & there
Now on your iPhone, NBA games
Other shorts: Then there was one: Another London freebie closes - But in Canada, the National Post survives - Fox wins Saturday dominated by sports

TV This Week
A few last words from Kate (or not)
America may have tired of the Gosselin saga on TLC, their curiosity about the nasty breakup sated, but she's not done talking

Overnights
'Vampire' stakes out a new series high
Averages a 2.3 in 18-34s and 3.1 in target women 18-34, second in the hour with Halloween episode. Fox wins with baseball

O ut of home
Your client with holiday shoppers

How to reach Americans as they flock to malls to shop for gifts, using traditional signage as well as the new digital formats

Alternative media
A classic white dress shirt, on the cuff
'Oops, sorry, didn't mean to offend'
Mary Hatchet, not your sorority queen
Now here's a car you just gotta love

People
Rena Sofer joins CBS's 'NCIS'
The former '24' and 'Heroes' actress will have a recurring
role as a mysterious lawyer Allan Singer becomes EVP of distribution at OWN
BusinessWeek president Keith Fox staying at McGraw-Hill
Tom Siebert and Tessa Barrera join Huge
Newsday columnist Saul Friedman leaving the newspaper
Steve Schepke becomes VP of business development at Sometrics
James Warren becomes editor of the Chicago Reader
Chrissy Mahlmeister becomes assistant editor at Life.com
Gregory Itzin returning to Fox's '24'
Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio joins USA's 'Law & Order: CI'
Ryan Seacrest gets restraining order against suspected stalker

Tuesday. Nov. 3, 2009

Overnights
Fox wins third straight night with Series
Averages a 4.8 in 18-49s, well ahead of No. 2 CBS with a 3.9 rating as the Phillies beat the Yankees, forcing a sixth game

Sports TV
On Fox, the best Series since 2004
Game four posts highest numbers for any game in five years, averaging 22.8 million total viewers and pushing Fox to best-ever fourth quarter

Sports TV
Fan fave Favre pumps hefty NFL ratings
Packers-Vikings game averages 29.8 million viewers, second-highest ever on Fox, as former Green Bay star takes on old team

Alternative media
Big stink: Col. Sanders slips into the UN
Well, not the real colonel but an actor dressed like him, and he got the royal treatment. Now the august body is crying fowl.

Research
Millennial mom: Catch her if you can
She's more inclined to set her own agenda in life, and she's a lot more wired in. Talking with Mr. Youth's Brandon Evans.

TV Reviews
'V,' lost in space in a trip back in time
ABC sci fi drama, a remake of a 1983 mini-series about an invasion of earth by aliens, moves quickly, perhaps too quickly

Here & there
TNT saves axed drama 'Southland'
Other shorts: Out West, another newspaper shuts down - Study: A third spent less on Halloween this year - Inquirer: Oops, the Phillies didn't win the Series

TV This Week
'By the People': The rise of Obama
HBO two-hour special traces the candidate's path from promising first-term senator through his election to the White House

People
Vivek Shah leaving Time Inc.
After 15 years, the group president for digital will step
down at the end of 2010 Kevin Hayes becomes VP of sales at Bellatrix Media
Doug Hall becomes senior editor at Organic Gardening
Juan Vallejo and Paul Laureano rise at Fox Sports en Espanol
Kim Harwood becomes director of advertising at Global Traveler
Aaron Norris becomes president of development at AmericanLife TV
Kevin Libkin rises to team sales manager at Continental Television Sales
Mitch Glider and Jeremy Schumacher rise to VPs at Westwood One
Angel Gambino becomes VP of business development at Sonico
Oprah Winfrey narrating Discovery Channel's 'Life'
Brent Barry becomes studio analyst at NBA TV

Wednesday, November 04, 2009

Overnights
ABC's 'V' has year's top scripted debut
Much-hyped show averages a 5.0 in 18-49s, even beating CBS's 'NCIS' in the 8 p.m. slot, and boosts network to No. 2 for the night

Television
CBS orders more 'Accidentally on Purpose'
Network wants five more episodes of Monday sitcom starring Jenna Elfman despite so-so ratings thus far in the heart of its comedy lineup

Sports TV
Fox surges ahead on Yankees baseball
Huge ratings for the World Series deliver the best fall week for a broadcast network since 2004, thanks to the Bronx Bombers

Cable recap
'Project Runway' loses some of its strut
Ratings are off sharply since its debut on Lifetime. It's now drawing a smaller audience than in its last season on Bravo.

Broadcast recap
Faltering, once sure-fire medical dramas
All three new series are failing, even as returning shows flourish. What ails? Writers trying to rewrite the formula (charts).

Alternative media
The growing clout of digital signage
As more boards go up, more Americans notice them, and that's leading to more advertising dollars--and lots more to come

Here & there
Bloomberg joining the pay wall herd
Other shorts: WSJ: We're in a New York state of mind - Programming notes: Alley getting reality show - Toyota's F1 sponsorship goes off track

TV This Week
For Bill Cosby, an honor worth the wait
He's accepting the Mark Twain Prize for humor from the Kennedy Center, after twice turning it down. On PBS at 8 p.m.

People
Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin hosting the Oscars
The duo will share the job at the 82nd annual event
airing March 7 on ABC Mitch Levy becomes ECD at Digitas
Matt Dowshen becomes head of account management at Ogilvy
Abigail Pesta rises to editor at large at Marie Claire
JoAnn Grigioni rises to VP of talent at Comedy Central
J. Mark Wirthlin becomes president and COO at The Modellers
Elizabeth Chmurak becomes associate producer at CNN
Stu Courtney becomes editor at ChicagoBreakingSports.com
Jordan Hoffner joins Ben Silverman's Electus
Brian Kroski becomes president and CEO at Artinfo
Fox HR head Adrienne Gary leaving

Thursday, November 05, 2009

Overnights
Fox's World Series sinks competition
A number of shows hit season lows opposite baseball as Yankees clinch title. Big hits for ABC's 'Cougar' and CBS's 'Minds.'

Magazines
Fortune Small Business shuts down
The closure of the 18-year-old title, owned by American Express and published by Time Inc., comes amid bigger cuts at the Time Warner company

Radio
The real flaw with Arbitron's PPM
It's not that it undercounts minorities, it's that the sample is too small to accurately reflect who's listening to what stations

TV Reviews
'Real Housewives of O.C,' been there
Truth is, the spinoffs are more entertaining to watch than the original, whose characters and storylines are now predictable

Alternative media
For these runners, let the real race begin
They're all over 40, and they're running marathons sponsored by TNT to promote its new drama 'Men of a Certain Age'

Radio
A hearty nod to the vast reach of radio
So who listens to radio? Just about everybody. Turns out its reach is second only to TV. Talking with Nielsen's Lorraine Hadfield.

Here & there
PTC to CW affiliates: Dump 'Girl' threesome
Other shorts: RDA's Purpose Driven Connection closes - Programming shorts: CBS cuts 'Numb3rs' - Study: Watching TV makes 3-year-olds violent

TV This Week
From Vegas, the music of Latinos
Big and loud, enough to drown out the Big Five networks in key demos as Univision hosts the 10th annual Latin Grammy Awards

People
ABC lands Janet Jackson interview
Robin Roberts will talk to the pop star in an hour-long
special airing Nov. 18 Amir Farhang rises to digital CD at 180 Los Angeles
Momita SenGupta rises to SVP of production at MTVN Entertainment
Brad Johnson becomes SVP of comedy development at CMT
Richard Nalley rises to editor at ForbesLife
CNN Productions head Mark Nelson leaving the network
Denise Bennett becomes integrated sales marketing manager at NBCU
Michelle Koruda becomes ad director at BlackBook Media
Susan Plagemann becomes VP and publisher at Vogue
Kurt Soller becomes assistant web editor at Esquire
Reiko Aylesworth and Sarah Wynter join FX's 'Damages'

Friday, November 06, 2009

Overnights
ABC holds its Thursday edge, barely
Averages a 3.7 in 18-49s for another Thursday win, 6 percent ahead of CBS with a 3.5. 'Grey's Anatomy' tops the night.

Television
The word: Oprah may jump to cable
Her contract with CBS expires in 2011, and after that she's off to her own network, or at least that's the buzz going around today

Sports TV
Series wasn't just a Yankees victory
Smarter scheduling of the games also helped drive up ratings, from earlier start times to beginning the play on a Wednesday

Dayparts update
Scandal hasn't helped or hurt Letterman
Ratings shot up the Monday after his on-air confession but have since settled back, but he's still way up from last season

Here & there
CBS leads biz and financial Emmy nods
Other shorts: Mental health groups boo 'Office' suicide joke - Programming notes: CBS re-ups 'Dr. Phil' - Air heir's snafu: adidas drops UCF sponsorship

Rachel speaks!
Rachel, we're over giving gifts at work
They write asking for other ways to celebrate the holidays, signing themselves the Media Crew. Rachel's advice: Help the needy.

TV This Week
Best tube bets this weekend
Friday: 'SpongeBob' special on Nick; Saturday: 'Wanda Sykes' debut on Fox; Sunday: season finale of AMC's 'Mad Men'

People
Martha and Rachael trading appearances
The syndicated talk show hosts will appear on each
other's programs on Nov. 12 and 13 R. Vann Graves becomes group CD at McCann N.Y.
Carolyn Cramer becomes director of Canadian sales at Tribal Fusion
Mike Lescarbeau rises to CEO at Carmichael Lynch
Mick Mahoney becomes ECD at Euro RSCG London
BusinessWeek online GM Roger Neal leaving
Adam Freifeld rises and Chris McCloskey joins NBCU Sports
Kyle Pope becomes editor of the New York Observer
Dillon McDonald rises to CEO at Jumpstart Automotive Group
Evan Smith becomes editor of the Texas Tribune
Eileen Conlan becomes editor at SheFinds.com

Monday, October 26, 2009

Overnights
Fox wins with game six of the ALCS
Averages a 5.2 in 18-49s as Yankees clinch a spot in the World Series against Phillies, up 49 percent over last year's game six

Newspapers
Newspaper circulation drops 11 percent
Weekdays suffer first ever double-digit decline for six months ended Sept. 30. Sunday editions fall 7.5 percent for the period.

Television
NBC gives three shows pick-ups
Orders back nine for 'Community,' 'Mercy' and 'Parks and Recreation,' bringing the total number of new shows picked up to 11

Overnights
Friday fizzle: Fox yanks 'Dollhouse'
Low-rated sci fi drama pulled for November sweeps for 'House' and 'Bones' reruns. CBS wins the night with a 2.0 in 18-49s.

Sports TV
This NBA season, all digital everywhere
As the season opens, fans will have even greater access across even more platforms. Speaking with NBA Digital's Bryan Perez.

Here & there
Sports rules Saturday night again
Other shorts: ESPN dumps Phillips after affair surfaces - Fox News' Ailes: I'm not running for president - 'Dunham' posts Comedy Central's top premiere

TV This Week
For ABC, its belief in 'Castle' pays off
Light-hearted procedural is gaining in the ratings in its second season after the network took a chance and brought it back

Overnights
ABC wins its fifth straight Thursday
Averages a 4.0 in 18-49s, topping reruns on CBS and ALCS baseball game on Fox, which sees big gain over last year's game

Out of home
Your client visiting media people

Serving coffee or donuts or maybe ice cream to buyers and planners while talking up their TV network or magazine or web site

Alternative media

Mary Hatchet, not your sorority queen
Now here's a car you just gotta love
Your thoughts, streamed to millions
Reaching out to the Jane Fonda in us all

People
Benjamin Bratt returning to 'Law & Order'
He'll return to the NBC drama reprising his role as
Det. Rey Curtis. Mark Modesto becomes president at Draftfcb North America
Chris Albert rises to VP of communication and talent relations at NGC
Three people rise at Conde Nast Digital
Sandra Baylis rises at Publishing Group of America
TheRoot.com editor Danyel Smith leaves
Victoria Pope rises to executive editor at National Geographic
Alison Young becomes health reporter at USA Today
Carrie Dann becomes political editor at MSNBC.com
Steven Mikulan writing L.A. Noir blog at TheWrap.com
Peter Johnson rises to vice chairman at Stack Media

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Overnights
With CBS in reruns, ABC rises to No. 1
Averages a 3.4 in 18-49s, 13 percent ahead of CBS with 'Dancing with the Stars' the night's top show with a 3.7 rating

Media economy
Readers: Yes, we're still toughing it out
Morale is holding up among media planners and buyers, though they see recovery further out on the horizon than they did this summer

Newspapers
Not all papers saw big circ declines
A few actually grew, most of them smaller local papers offering news readers can't find elsewhere. Lessons from their surprising upticks.

Sports TV
With the Yanks in, a better World Series
Matchup with Phillies is sure to top stinker ratings last year, though fall short of New York-LA contest Fox hoped for

Sports TV
Handicapping the new NBA season
It kicks off with the Lakers facing the Clippers, and the bet's that ratings will be up. Talking with TNT analyst Kenny Smith.

Cable
USA's 'White Collar' nabs a Friday win
Pulls a bigger audience than several broadcast series, averaging 5.4 million viewers for its premiere airing after 'Monk'

Here & there
Microsoft pulls out of 'Family Guy' special
Other shorts: NBC Universal begins Olympic countdown - At Forbes, ad decline prompts even more layoffs - Nielsen: Kids getting couch potato-ier

TV This Week
Horror of horrors, Spike's 'Scream 2009'
Awards show honors the best in sci fi and horror, riding on the popularity of movies like 'Twilight' and HBO's 'True Blood'

People
Ricky Gervais hosting the Golden Globes
The comic will be the first emcee since John Larroquette
and Janine Turner in 1995 Ted Haller becomes director of agricultural media at True Media
Lori McFarling rises to CMO at Discovery Education
Stephen Moss becomes president and CEO at National Public Media
Breda O'Reilly becomes digital ad manager at The Atlantic
N. Christian Anderson III becomes publisher of The Oregonian
Michael Smith becomes GM of the Cooking Channel
Lindsay Powers becomes managing editor at ExtraTV.com
'Larry King' senior producer Mercedes Torres leaves
Joe Holley becomes politics reporter at the Houston Chronicle
Rosie O'Donnell launching Sirius XM radio show

Wednesday October 28, 2009

Overnights
NBC wins Tuesday with CBS in reruns
In a rare win, averages a 3.1 in 18-49s, led by 'Biggest Loser,' the night's top show with a 3.7, up 16 percent over last year

Cable
'MNF' scores big victory for ESPN
Sports network vaults to first in primetime in October with four NFL games topping the charts, edging TBS with postseason baseball coverage

Broadcast recap
A first: Fox climbs to No. 1 in October
It's the earliest the network has taken the lead in 18-49s, and it's hosting a World Series that should draw hefty ratings (charts)

Cable recap
For Bio, rising ratings raising the dead
New series 'Celebrity Ghost Stories' sets a network record in viewers, and it joins a list of offbeat reality shows (charts)

TV Reviews
'Cougar Town,' better than you'd think
The theme of older women with younger men is a tired one but this sitcom works because it reaches beyond. It's well done.

Here & there
TV ad prices slump during third quarter
Other shorts: WSJ yanks Yankee edition from London - In France, giving papers away to remain relevant - More layoffs at Conde Nast and Time Inc. - Writer details Letterman's 'hostile work environment'

TV This Week
'Mutant Pumpkins from Outer Space'
Gripping title of this NBC Halloween special, a spinoff of the hit CGI movie 'Monsters vs. Aliens,' about says it all

People
Hulk Hogan joins TNA Wrestling
But the former WWE star's role at the company has
yet to be revealed Clear Channel president Randall Mays stepping down
Ed Han becomes ECD at Walton | Isaacson
Roberta Haber becomes director of marketing at SGPTV
Robert Haskitt becomes CMO at Extreme Reach
Jolina Asuncion becomes director of sales at National TV Sales
Jim Brady running Politico's new Washington, D.C., news site
Fred Schulte becomes senior reporter at HuffPo Investigative Fund
Baird Helgeson becomes government reporter at the Star Tribune
Lisa Kudrow guesting on ABC's 'Cougar Town'
Idris Elba developing NBC drama

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Overnights
Fox homers with first World Series game
Averages 19.5 million total viewers, up 34 percent from last year and the best game one since 2004. Draws a 6.3 in 18-49s.

Sports TV
NBA tipoff sets a ratings record for TNT
Doubleheader averages 3.68 million total viewers, up 43 percent over last year, as Celtics top Cavs and Lakers beat Clippers

Alternative media
'Oops, sorry, didn't mean to offend'
Outrage erupts over a billboard in Thailand of Hitler, put up by a wax museum, in another case of a campaign that went too far

Research
On that dark night, go dark (chocolate)
Four of the top seven candies among kids are from Hershey, and other candy facts. Talking with Experian Simmons' John Fetto.

TV Reviews
'Sex Rehab With Dr. Drew,' addicting
VH1 series is not the snicker-fest you might think. One grows to sympathize with the patients who are undergoing treatment.

Here & there
NBC to 'Trauma:' No more, thanks
Other shorts: ABC won't promote 'V' high in the sky - Cowboy up: Fox scores best NFL game since 1996 - NY Observer editor McGeveran splitting - Programming notes: 'Scrubs' returns Dec. 1

TV This Week
On 'Vampire Diaries,' a night of fright
CW show is in its element leading up to Halloween, and to pump the episode the network is texting alerts to likely viewers

People
CBS Interactive CEO Quincy Smith exits
Smith will step down in January to become a consultant.
His first client? CBS. Colin Kinsella becomes North America president at Digitas
Three become managing directors at Razorfish
Ferdinand Daniele and Alexis Garber rise at McCann Erickson
Kirk Heinlein becomes president at Blue Issue Agency
Sarah Tomassi Lindman becomes EVP of program strategy at MTV
Ryan Davis rises to president at Philly.com
John Garcia rises to Latin America GM at WB International TV Distribution
Steve Craddock becomes CTO at PCT International
Summer Wilkie becomes senior communications manager at NBC News
Sean Salo becomes director of marketing at Music Choice

Friday, October 30, 2009

Overnights
'Vampire' stakes out a new series high
Averages a 2.3 in 18-34s and 3.1 in target women 18-34, second in the hour with Halloween episode. Fox wins with baseball.

Newspapers
Latest closing: WSJ shuts Boston bureau
It's just the most recent example of this month's deep job cuts, which extend to Forbes, Time Inc., the New York Times and Conde Nast

Dayparts update
For ABC's 'GMA,' better safe than sorry
George Stephanopoulos is most likely set to take Diane Sawyer's place, and it's a move that makes sense in a lot of ways

Alternative media
A classic white dress shirt, on the cuff
How smart: USA gives away custom-fitted shirts at a pop-up store, tailor and fitters on hand, to tout debut of 'White Collar'

Rachel speaks!
Rachel, swine flu's got me all worried
The writer, a media planner, works around people with sick kids at home. She wants to know how to avoid getting the bug.

Here & there
Family gets $16.6M in radio contest death
Other shorts: Programming notes: Swardson getting new show - Sorry, Miley: Teens voted you worst influence - CNN's Dobbs: Somebody shot at my house

TV This Week
Best tube bets this weekend
Friday: Epix launches with Madonna; Saturday: Syfy's Halloween 'Ghost Hunters;' Sunday: Brett Favre travels back to Green Bay

People
Boston Globe publisher P. Steven Ainsley leaving
He'll step down at the end of the year, being replaced
by Christopher M. Mayer
Duncan Milner rises to CCO at TBWA\Media Arts Lab
Al Benoit becomes account director at TargetCast tcm
Adriana Ibanez rises to EVP of programming at Telemundo
Josh Wolk becomes entertainment editor at NYMag.com
Olga Casabona rises to VP of market insights at ImpreMedia
Bob Meyers becomes president and COO at TRA
Russell Kline rises to SVP of Latin America channel operations at SPT
Jim McGowan becomes digital SVP at Cookie Jar Entertainment
Marc Cherry signs new ABC Studios deal
Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne hosting 'Monday Night Raw'

Monday, October 19, 2009

Overnights
Easy Sunday win for NBC with football
Averages a 4.8 in 18-49s, with CBS No. 2 with a 4.0, driven by football overrun. ABC and Fox tie for third with a 3.2

Sports TV
Pinstripe pump: Yanks-Angels soars
Second game of the American League Championship Series averages a 5.8 household rating, up 53 percent over last year

Overnights
Not so pretty premiere for 'Ugly Betty'
Veteran ABC comedy moves from Thursday to Friday, where it averages a 1.4 in 18-49s, down from what the slot drew last year

Newspapers
'Wanted: Critic to review marijuana'
The ad ran in Denver's alternative weekly Westword, and it's drawn lots of attention. Talking with editor Patricia Calhoun.

Here & there
Fox wins Saturday night with baseball
Other shorts: NYT's postscript on the Marcus Brauchli matter - Friend: Balloon Boy's dad did it to pump reality show - YouTube airing Channel 4's full schedule

Television
Letterman's challenge: Get beyond it
'Late Show' host beats O'Brien in 18-49s for second time but there's risk of a ratings tumble if the scandal remains center stage

TV This Week
Celebrating the men of Monty Python
Six-part IFC series 'Monty Python: Almost the Truth' reveals the struggles and conflicts in the rise of the comedy troupe

Overnights
ABC wins its fourth straight Thursday
Averages a 4.0 in 18-49s, 14 percent ahead of No. 2 CBS, led by 'Grey's Anatomy,' the night's top show with a 4.9 rating

Out of home
Your client on public payphones

Think of it as the ultimate in curbside advertising, with the ability to target folks where they live, work and shop

Alternative media

Steaming hot pizza, up on a billboard
'Yikes! Look at my scary picture!'
Swimming along the baggage carousel
Not your usual nudie billboard flap

People
George Stephanopoulos filling in at ABC News
'This Week' host will be Diane Sawyer's regular sub when
she takes over as 'World News' anchor Rene Yanes becomes LA sales manager at Delta Media
David Hakensen rises to Minneapolis GM at Fleishman-Hillard
Alejandro Lazo becomes metro staff writer at LA Times
Jonathan Axelrod rises to president at Alan Ett Creative Group
Gannett CEO Craig Dubow returns from medical leave
Frank Wall rises to publisher at Money
Shane McMahon leaving as WWE global media EVP
David P. White becomes national executive director at SAG
Samuel L. Jackson producing two CBS projects
'The Hills'' Stephanie Pratt arrested for alleged DUI

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Overnights
'Big Bang' wins the night as top show
Averages a 5.1 in 18-49s, building 9 percent on lead-in 'Two and a Half Men' and pushing CBS to No. 1 for the night ahead of Fox

Newspapers
NYT: We're cutting 100 newsroom jobs
First come voluntary buyouts, then layoffs as the nation's biggest newsroom braces to lose 8 percent of its 1,250-person staff

Research
DVRs' busiest hour: Thursday at 9 p.m.
Three of the week's four most recorded shows air then, led by 'Grey's Anatomy,' when live-plus-seven ratings are tallied (chart)

Media economy
Scoping out the recovery in advertising
Fourth-quarter spending will sink another 9 percent, which in one sense is a good thing. Speaking with Magna's Brian Wieser.

Alternative media
Reaching out to the Jane Fonda in us all
Flash mobs in fitness outfits dance to the beat of a message about living and eating well. Love those leg warmers.

Here & there
NBC orders 'Biggest Loser' spinoff
Other shorts: Yes mess: Pranksters fool Reuters and CNBC - British regulator scolds Channel 4 over kids series - 'Media Buyers Revenge,' shooting down sales reps

TV This Week
For 'Sons of Anarchy,' that FX edge
Up smartly in year two and now the No. 3 non-sports show on cable, with some thanks to 'Leno' and Jeff Zucker (parenthetically)

Overnights
Easy Sunday win for NBC with football
Averages a 4.8 in 18-49s, with CBS No. 2 with a 4.0, driven by football overrun. ABC and Fox tie for third with a 3.2

People
Michelle Obama guesting on 'Jay Leno'
In a short appearance the First Lady will answer 10 quick
questions from Leno Keren Perry-Shamir becomes product manager at Peer39
Rachel Owens becomes director of marketing at Ponturo Management
Brett Wilson becomes publisher at Parade
Laura Schreffler becomes West Coast bureau chief at HollywoodLife
Former FCC chair Reed Hundt joins D.C. law firm
Brenda Turner becomes executive editor at USA Weekend
Josh Dickey becomes deputy editor at TheWrap.com
Jan Crawford Greenburg becomes chief legal correspondent at CBS
Martin Tyler joins ESPN for 2010 World Cup
Brooke Burke joins 'The Doctors'

Wednesday, October 21 2009

Overnights
Hefty gains for NBC's 'Biggest Loser'
Averages a 3.9 in 18-49s over two hours, best rating since May, boosting network to No. 2 on the night. 'NCIS' is night's top show.

Magazines
BusinessWeek editor scoots with sale
Steve Adler resigns after four years as top editor as the title moves from McGraw-Hill to Bloomberg. Can Pearlstine do any better?

Broadcast recap
On broadcast, the year of the spinoff
Season's No. 1 new series, 'Cleveland Show' and 'NCIS: LA,' are both launched from top series. But positioning's also key (charts).

Cable recap
Viewers of 'The Hills' head for them
MTV reality show has a new bad girl to stir things up, but she's not doing it, and ratings in key 18-34s are off by half (charts)

TV Reviews
'Living with Ed,' if you really must
Imagine a sitcom about a couple trying to live green, but it's not a sitcom but a poorly scripted reality show. You've got it.

Alternative media
Mary Hatchet, not your sorority queen
Truth be told, she's ghastly in appearance (maybe it's the blood splatter). She's going about campuses promoting a horror flick.

Here & there
'GMA's' next co-host: Who will it be?
Other shorts: Herald publisher: A pay wall is looming - Programming notes: 'Castle' gets full-season order - The Jordan Rules: Air's son disses adidas

TV This Week
For 'Law & Order: SVU,' case gets nasty
Dramatic slide with its move to Wednesday night, to fourth place against far tougher competition, led by CBS's 'Criminal Minds'

People
'Big Brother' winner accused of selling drugs
Season nine champ Adam Jasinski allegedly used his winnings
to buy oxycodone and resell it Four join Ogilvy & Mather New York
Jason Bellush becomes senior partner at Moroch Partners
John Miller becomes SVP of original productions at WE tv
Peter O. Price becomes media division president at Zumbox
Jenna Carlesso becomes Hartford Courant reporter
Judy Greer starring in ABC's 'I'm With Stupid'
Sarah Palin sitting down with 'Oprah'
Adam Shankman and Bill Mechanic producing the Academy Awards
Joss Whedon directing an episode of Fox's 'Glee'
Producer Marc Guggenheim leaving ABC's 'FlashForward'

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Overnights
CBS and Fox tie for No. 1 on Wednesday
Average a 2.9 in 18-49s, with CBS's 'Criminal Minds' the night's top show, giving the network a 3.6 in the competitive 9 p.m. hour

Magazines
Hef: We're slashing Playboy's rate base
Men's title will drop from 2.6 million to 1.5 million in January, dropping behind Maxim and Men's Health in total circulation

TV Reviews
'The Jeff Dunham Show,' for dummies
He makes them talk but what they say isn't funny. The new Comedy Central show is a throwback to the early years of cable.

Alternative media
Your thoughts, streamed to millions
Promotion creates a social network on digital screens in terminals and on sides of buses in New York, Chicago and London

Media economy
Behind the decline in online advertising
Spending this year is now expected to fall 2.9 percent, led by search and classified. Talking with eMarketer's David Hallerman.

Here & there
Fang-tastic: 'Vampire' gets pickup
Other shorts: Life & Style goes 100 percent Jon & Kate free - WSJ.com ramps up its premium business offerings - Yet another on-air swear in New York City - Comcast putting cable shows online

TV This Week
For Bravo, thriving on the do in Dixie
Just how real it all may be is beside the point as 'Real Housewives of Atlanta' wraps up season two up smartly in the ratings

People
Michael Steele named Us Weekly editor
He rises from executive editor to editor in chief, replacing
the departed Janice Min
Martin Ortells becomes GM at McCann MIA
Chris Conderino and Mitchel G. Bader join Mercury Media
Julia Monti and Heather Caufield rise at The Rosen Group
Sharon Otterman becomes VP and CMO at MSNBC
Mark O'Leary becomes regional VP of business services at Comcast
Lauren McCollester and Jeeun Kim rise at NBC Universal
Neil Strow becomes sales director at Good Health Media
Melissa Bear and Michael Tenzer become SVPs at Comedy Central
David Courtney becomes CEO at JiWire
Carnie Wilson starring in GSN reality series

Friday, October 23, 2009

Overnights
ABC wins its fifth straight Thursday
Averages a 4.0 in 18-49s, topping reruns on CBS and ALCS baseball game on Fox, which sees big gain over last year's game

Newspapers
Newsday: We're putting up a pay wall
Cablevision-owned paper will charge $5 per week for nonsubscribers, becoming the latest newspaper to reject the free web model

TV Reviews
'White Collar,' cool if you're 14 or so
USA copper pairs up an FBI agent and an ex-con in a crime-solving caper whose plot is as implausible as it is hackneyed

Alternative media
Now here's a car you just gotta love
Attached to the car are sensors leading to a love meter, and when passersby touch the car, the dial shoots into the red zone

Rachel speaks!
Rachel, I've got these two media queens
The writer says the women had a serious falling out and quit speaking, which has made it hard for everyone in the department

Here & there
Come 2010, Fortune is cutting back
Other shorts: Wasserstein family trust hangs on to New York - News Corp.: We may charge for Hulu shows - Programming notes: A second helping of 'Chef'

TV This Week
Best tube bets this weekend
Friday: Michelle Obama on 'Leno;' Saturday: PSU at Michigan on ABC; Sunday: finale of 'StarMaker' on MTV

People
Soupy Sales dies at age 83
The slapstick comedian took 20,000 pies to the face
during his long career Pete McGinty becomes president at Fahlgren Advertising
Essie Chambers becomes SVP of programming at Centric
Jessica Callan becomes news director at Life & Style
James O'Shea leading The Chicago News Cooperative
'Survivor' winner Yul Kwon takes FCC position
Former 'Apprentice' contestant Rebecca Jarvis leaves CNBC
Sebastian Roche joins the cast of Fox's 'Fringe'
Lauren Sanchez becomes weekend co-host on 'Extra'
Sarah Shahi starring in USA's 'Facing Kate'
Jamie Denbo joins the cast of FX's 'Terriers'

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Overnights
CBS nips Fox for a close Monday win
Averages a 4.0 in 18-49s to a 3.9, lifted by three of night's top shows, 'Bang,' 'Men' and 'CSI: Miami.' 'House' is No. 1 with a 5.0.

Magazines
Magazines take yet another ad bath
PIB: Pages tumble 26.6 percent in the third quarter, but amid the gloom there's a ray or two of hope. One ad category shows gains.

Overnights
Football boosts NBC to Sunday win
Tops CBS with a 4.5 adults 18-49 rating as 'SNF' wins every hour, according to early numbers. 'Guy' bests 'Housewives' for top scripted show.

TV Reviews
'NCIS: Los Angeles,' boys will be boys
CBS spinoff is about two buddies goofing around and cracking wise as they solve crimes with neato stuff like fast cars

Magazines
Ooh-ah, Marge Simpson bares (nearly) all
Cartoon mom appears on the cover of the newsstand issue of Playboy, in a pitch to lure young males as readers. Some curves.

Here & there
'Fringe' and 'Heroes' see big DVR jumps
Other shorts: MLB postseason scores gains on TBS - ABC gives full-season order to 'FlashForward' - CBS wins third straight Friday in 18-49s - And CBS takes Saturday night too, with football

TV This Week
'And our newlyweds, Brad and George'
GSN's 'The Newlywed Game' has its first gay couple, George being George Takei of 'Star Trek,' in another first for the show

Overnights
ABC wins third Thursday of new season
Averages a 4.0 in 18-49s, 21 percent ahead of No. 2 CBS, but both networks are down against competition from TBS baseball

Out of home
Your client on Wi-Fi high in the sky

Here's how to reach airline passengers while they're surfing the internet while flying at 10,000 feet on commercial aircraft

Alternative media

Not your usual nudie billboard flap
'Look at the lady sewing in the window'
Sneaking your ad into the big game
Fake mustaches, and not just for laughs

People
Carrie Underwood returning to Fox
The former 'American Idol' winner will star in a holiday
special to air on Dec. 7 Peter Platt becomes CDO at Catalyst Direct
Nada Stirratt becomes CRO at MySpace
Karl Siebrecht becomes president and COO at AdReady
Harumi Gondo becomes international coordinator of at UPI.com
Alecia Dixon becomes VP of domestic TV sales at Starz
Rush Limbaugh judging the 2010 Miss America Pageant
Lauren Graham joins NBC's 'Parenthood'
Newark mayor Cory Booker on 'Tonight' to settle feud
Matthew Perry working on a new sitcom
Radha Mitchell joins A&E's 'The Quickening'

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Overnights
'Hell's Kitchen' finale lifts Fox to No. 1
Averages a 3.8 in 18-49s, up 19 percent over last year, and becomes the first network to beat CBS on the night this season

Magazines
Done deal: BW goes to Bloomberg
New York mayor's publishing empire pays a few million for title once valued at a billion, with the aim of building it back up

Magazines
Not all magazines are being clobbered
Several categories of titles are holding onto ad pages fairly well: Women's service, entertainment and health/fitness (charts)

Broadcast recap
At last, comedy is back on network TV
Four of the top 10 shows of the week are sitcoms, after years of failed efforts to rouse a laugh or two in primetime (charts)

TV Reviews
'Eastwick,' could use a bit of deviltry
ABC dramedy based on the Updike novel falls flat, suffering from a weak script, cliched characters and one-liners that aren't funny

Alternative media
Swimming along the baggage carousel
There they are, two half-naked women, hair streaming against a background of blue. What's not to like? Client: A nearby resort.

Here & there
Baseball pitches TBS to best week ever
Other shorts: No rush to welcome Limbaugh as NFL owner - MPA: New study touts magazine ads' effectiveness - Programming notes: Fox plans 'Family' special

TV This Week
And cheers to you too, Shelley Long
Former 'Cheers' star guests on 'Modern Family' on a night of ABC sitcoms with a slew of big names from top sitcoms of the past

People
Jon Gosselin ordered to return $180,000
Court tells the 'Jon & Kate Plus 8' dad to put the
funds back by Oct. 26 Cole Hartman becomes SVP of marketing at Inter/Media Group
Five rise to media directors at Harmelin Media
Comedy Central programming president Lauren Corrao leaving
Nancie Clare rises to editor at LA Times magazine LA
William Simon rises to COO at Tennis Channel
Tara Long becomes VP of U.S. alternative programming at E1
Barry Schwabsky becomes art critic at The Nation
Lori O'Connor rises to ad sales director at TV Guide
Amy Sherman-Palladino working on a project at HBO
Thomas Lennon developing NBC comedy

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Overnights
ABC's sitcoms settle into their groove
'Modern Family' averages a 3.6 in 18-49s, up 6 percent, and 'Cougar Town' pulls a 3.2, flat to last week. Fox wins the night.

Television
Media folks rank eight new shows as hits
That's more than a third of the 22 new shows on broadcast this season, and at the top of the list is CBS's 'NCIS: Los Angeles'

Newspapers
NYT: We're keeping the Boston Globe
Times Co. abandons plan to sell the paper after disappointing bids, ending a soap opera that included contentious union negotiations

Cable recap
At long last, big win for women's b'ball
Ratings soar for WNBA Finals as Phoenix beats Indiana: Total viewers up 73 percent, and 18-49s see similar gains (charts)

Alternative media
'Yikes! Look at my scary picture!'
It looks like one of those old photo booths. It's really a stunt for a science exhibit about fear. Let the screaming begin.

Television
Who stands to gain from NBC's 'Leno'
With ratings off in the hour, viewers are migrating, but to where? Talking with Wells Fargo analyst Marci L. Ryvicker.

Here & there
Limbaugh's bid to buy Rams sacked
Other shorts: Tribe has spoken: Fox Reality gets canceled - With Wasserstein's death, New York's cloudy future - Programming notes: Fox picks up 'Cleveland' - Study: 'Idol's' Jackson tops celebrities in likeability

TV This Week
On 'Private Practice,' more familiar faces
A character from 'Grey's Anatomy' drops by, and the crossover ploy ought to deliver a boost as the drama seeks to hold its lead

Overnights
ABC wins its fourth straight Thursday
Averages a 4.0 in 18-49s, 14 percent ahead of No. 2 CBS, led by 'Grey's Anatomy,' the night's top show with a 4.9 rating

Cable
The word: No more 'Jon & Kate'
TLC is dumping the once-smash reality show, according to reports, after Jon files a cease-and-desist order to stop filming the children

Dayparts update
For 'Days of our Lives,' a heartening turn
Ratings are up smartly for the long-running NBC soap when all others are down, and this could save the show. But will it?

Alternative media
Steaming hot pizza, up on a billboard
And it's real steam being pumped out to create the effect of a pie as it appears right from the oven. Client: Donatos Pizza.

Media economy
For local internet, a whole new game
Torrid growth in ad spending has come to a halt as the medium matures, and competition for those dollars has grown intense

Rachel speaks!
Rachel, please, a few uplifting words
The writer says everyone at her agency has sour faces because of the recession. What can she and her friends do to lift spirits?

Here & there
Fox Reality becoming Nat Geo Wild
Other shorts: More layoffs at ailing Conde Nast - Study: Between the sheets people send Tweets - Interpublic: We're merging Deutsch and Lowe - Programming notes: 'SNL' gets a single sponsor

TV This Week
Best tube bets this weekend
Friday: 'Ugly Betty' premiere on ABC; Saturday: USC-Notre Dame on NBC; Sunday: History Channel's 'The Kennedy Assassination'

People
Ted Turner: 'I'd like to see me running Time Warner'
Then, the mogul says, he'd make some changes to
CNN and Cartoon Network Four new hires at Tribal Fusion
Mat Ranauro becomes SVP and director of interactive at Publicis
Steve Piluso becomes East Coast managing director at PHD
Steve Hasker becomes president of advertiser solutions at Nielsen
Ted May rises to SVP of strategy at Synacor
Martin Miller rises to TV editor at the Los Angeles Times
Carol Lombardini rises to AMPTP president
Richard Hatch ending his tax evasion sentence
Taylor Swift hosting 'Saturday Night Live'
Paige Turco and Barry Bostwick starring in NBC's 'The Mountain'

Monday, October 05, 2009

Overnights
CBS's 'Rivers' runs dry in premiere
New drama averages a 2.0 adults 18-49 rating, the second-worst scripted debut of the fall season, behind Fox's 'Brothers'

Magazines
Conde Nast closing four magazines
Axed: Gourmet, Modern Bride, Elegant Bride and Cookie following McKinsey study on streamlining the company as slump drags on

Television
Buyers: Season's off to a heck of a start
Big story is the strong ratings for new shows, in what readers call an encouraging start. ABC nudges CBS for the best start.

Overnights
Pigskin scores for ABC Saturday
College matchup lifts network to No. 1 with a 2.1 adults 18-49 rating, even to last week and 40 percent ahead of No. 2 Fox.

Television
Early signs of big gains for DVR viewing
CW sees a 52 percent increase in women 18-34 in week one of new season when delayed viewing over seven days is factored in

Television
As for Fridays, early signs are not good
Ratings slide for the night in new season's second week, with CBS down 15 percent in 18-49s, though it still won the night

Here & there
Puck pluck: NHL gets a record start
Other shorts: Alleged Letterman blackmailer pleads not guilty - Arbitron: We're upping our PPM samples - Rocky Mountain redux: Now it's the web site closing

TV This Week
For the record books: Packers-Vikings
Game will likely set a record for most cable viewers this year, as well as most-watched 'Monday Night Football' ever on ESPN

Out of home
Your client in view at NFL games

Stadium advertising reaches devoted fans in the stands, as well as viewers at home, especially with newer digital signal

Alternative media

Sneaking your ad into the big game
Controversial BusRadio pulls the plug
Fake mustaches, and not just for laughs
Your client at the lunch truck

People
Rachel Bilson could be the 'Mother'
She'll film a guest stint on the CBS sitcom. Could she
be the one for Ted? Paul Miller becomes interim CEO at Alpha Media Group
Eugene Fuller becomes copywriter at Mother New York
Richard Mettler becomes editor at Peepshow Post Productions
Lisa Mao rises to VP of development at Hoff Productions
Sander Schwartz leading FremantleMedia's kids division
Scott Hocker becomes San Francisco editor at Tasting Table
Four rise at the Federal Communications Commission
Sharon Tal Yguado and Jason Simms rise at Fox International Channels
Julianne Pepitone becomes associate web producer at CNNMoney.com
Toledo Blade editor Ron Royhab retiring

Tuesday, October 06, 2009

Overnights
Fox wins its third straight Monday night
Averages a 4.1 in 18-49s, 8 percent ahead of No. 2 CBS, led by 'House,' night's top show with a 5.1, as football saps viewing

Television
Letterman to wife: I'm really sorry
CBS 'Late Show' host apologizes on-air to Regina Lasko and his staff, who have been hounded by reporters since scandal broke last week

Magazines
Conde Nast closing four magazines
Axed: Gourmet, Modern Bride, Elegant Bride and Cookie following McKinsey study on streamlining the company as slump drags on

Magazines
What the closings say about magazines
Typically it's the weak titles that get the axe, but Gourmet has been a strong title. Talking with TargetCast's Roberta Garfinkle.

Here & there
Economist: We're erecting a pay wall
Other shorts: Study: Perceptions of Letterman haven't changed - Programming notes: CBS renews 'Flashpoint' - FTC orders bloggers to disclose advertising ties - Globe union leader accused of disobeying orders

TV Reviews
'The Forgotten,' and puzzling, too
ABC drama about a citizens group that helps police identify murder victims and find their killers is downright implausible

Alternative media
Not your usual nudie billboard flap
It's the tagline that's got folks in a big snit, not the woman's luscious curves or seductive smile. And it's not even dirty.

TV This Week
At long last, 'NCIS' rises to No. 1
CBS Naval drama passes 'CSI' in total viewers, its popularity driven as much as anything by the ubiquity of reruns on USA

People
Real-life drama: David Boreanaz gets the flu
Production on Fox's 'Bones' shuts down for fear of
swine flu outbreak
Rich Ross becomes chairman at Walt Disney Studios
Mark Rosenbaum becomes CFO at MySpace
Neilan Tyree becomes CMO at David&Goliath
Carey Witmer rises to VP and publisher at Family Circle
Tiffany Thorpe rises to director of production ops at GMC
Howard Handler becomes EVP of marketing at MSG Entertainment
Mark Pasetksy officially becomes OK! managing editor
Andy Gregor becomes COO at Hitviews
Pei Hsieh suing Martha Stewart over firing
Danny Comden working on 'The Intruders' at Fox

Wednesday, October 07, 2009

Overnights
CBS wins Tuesday but its lead narrows
Averages a 3.6 in 18-49s, off 10 percent from last week as all three of its shows decline. NBC places second with a 3.1.

Cable
'Monday Night Football' in cable record
Vikings-Packers game is the most-watched show in cable history, averaging 21.8 million viewers on ESPN, well over earlier record

Television
Letterman's ratings soar on Monday
CBS's 'Late Show' jumps 36 percent over the previous week, to 5.7 million total viewers, and beats O'Brien in adults 18-49

Broadcast recap
For Fox, the rarest of wins: A fall week
Takes the second week of the new season with a 3.1 in 18-49s, lifted by football and higher ratings for many shows (charts)

Cable recap
With fall, cable sees ratings tumble
But, alas, it's not viewers returning to broadcast for the hot new shows. It rather has to do with news, or its absence (charts).

Here & there
Hike! Plan in motion for Rush to buy Rams.
Other shorts: 'Seinfeld' reunion gooses 'Curb' to five-year high - Programming notes: HBO renews 'Bored' - Chronicle: We're adding gloss to daily run - The big row over Towson U's Bed Post column

TV This Week
The playoffs begin: Phillies vs. Rockies
Ratings should be up this year for the divisional playoffs on TBS with fan favorites the New York Yankees again in contention

People
Lauren Graham may join 'Parenthood'
The 'Gilmore Girls' actress is in talks with NBC to take the
role vacated by Maura Tierney Will Hammond becomes creative director at TBWA\Chiat\Day
Four join the staff at Fanscape
Alex L. Vaickus rises to president at Playboy Enterprises
Charlie McNiff becomes VP of agency sales at Bauer Entertainment
Bill Bergmann and Jim Urick rise to VPs of finance at Starz
Linda Dupree becomes EVP of sales at Innerscope Research
Natalie Farsi leading mobile business at Warner Bros.
Douglas J. Rowe becomes senior editor at TVGuide.com
John Davison becomes EVP of content at GamePro Media
Migdalia Figueroa rises to VP of content at Telemundo

Thursday, October 08, 2009

Overnights
ABC's all-new Wednesday lineup dips
Averages a third-place 2.3 in 18-49s, down 18 percent from last week. 'Modern Family' averages a 3.2, tying for No. 2 with 'Glee.'

Television
'NCIS: LA' and 'Wife' receive pick-ups
CBS gives full-season orders to the Tuesday dramas, which rank first and second among new shows this season in total viewers

Television
For 'Leno,' so far so good, ratings-wise
NBC primetime chat show is running above the baseline average the network set, its ratings rising and falling on its lead-in

TV Reviews
'Cleveland Show,' acquired lack of taste
Fox 'Family Guy' spinoff and ripoff doesn't improve on the original in its rapid-fire string of racial and sexual guffaws

Radio
Nuts to the attacks on Arbitron's PPM
It's become a hot political issue in Washington but media people are still big fans. Talking with Harmelin's Bernie Shimkus.

Here & there
Tiebreaker a home run for TBS
Other shorts: The word: BW bidders shrink to two - Programming shorts: Yep, Vick gets a reality show - Former Martha employee sues over firing - German magazine strikes pro models from its pages

TV This Week
For Pam and Jim, the words 'I thee wed'
Two lovebirds wed on a one-hour episode of 'The Office,' and in some ways their story is the story of the quirky NBC sitcom

People
Levi Johnston posing for Playgirl
The father of Sarah Palin's grandson will bare all for
the online magazine Rob DeFlorio leaves Mother New York
Ari Weiss becomes creative director at 180 L.A.
Steven DeLuca out as publisher of Details
Lauren A. Meller becomes VP of communications at iVillage
John Rosso rises to president at Citadel Media
Tom Phillips becomes CEO at Media6Degrees
MP Dunleavey becomes contributing editor at DailyWorth.com
Jessica Taff joins YES's New Jersey Nets coverage
Breanne George becomes editor in chief at Women's Running
GM VP of U.S. sales Mark LaNeve leaving

Monday, September 28, 2009

Overnights
Huge debut for Fox's 'Cleveland Show'
Averages a 4.9 in 18-49s, building 17 percent on 'Simpsons' to become the season's top scripted premiere. NBC wins night with 'SNF.'

Television
Poor start for Fox's Friday lineup
New sitcom 'Brothers' averages a 1.0 in 18-49s, as does returning drama 'Dollhouse,' dropping the network to fifth for the night

Television
The year's first cancellation: 'TBL'
The CW axes the fashion model series after just two episodes, in which it lost more than half of lead-in 'Top Model's' audience

TV Reviews
'Trauma,' beaten to death by cliches
NBC's paramedic drama recycles them all, large and small, in telling the stories of people who save lives. Grit your teeth.

TV Reviews
'The National Parks,' acres upon acres
Ken Burns has produced a beautiful PBS documentary but one that's too long and also weighted down by rhapsodizing

Here & there
ABC scores on Saturday with football
Other shorts: NYT columnist William Safire dies at age 79 - PTC: We're chasing off 'Men's' sponsors - Oops. Yet another F bomb, on 'SNL.'

TV This Week
For 'Lie to Me,' now comes the real test
Can the second-year Fox drama make it without the cushion of 'American Idol?' On this new night, the competition is tougher.

Overnights
'FlashForward' debut beats 'Survivor'
ABC drama averages a 4.1 in 18-49s to a 3.7 for the CBS reality series and wins in total viewers as well: 12.4 million to 11.9 million

Out of home
Your client at the lunch truck

Reaching blue-collar workers, many of them Hispanic, at job sites as they break during their workday for a snack or a hot meal

Alternative media

Pop-up: Letting wee cats tell the story
Your client at a tailgating party
Be warned: 'Vampire lair discovered'
Harsh spring for out-of-home

People
Conan O'Brien suffers injury
NBC aired a rerun on Friday after the 'Tonight Show'
host was hurt during a taping Ed Ling becomes managing director of global solutions at MEC
Tom Gilmartin becomes creative director at DNA Seattle
Andrew Ault becomes senior writer at Crispin Porter + Bogusky
Ken Howard becomes SAG president
Jerry Longarzo becomes head of business affairs at BermanBraun
Mark Forscher becomes creative director at ABC News
Patricia Zengerle rises to White House correspondent at Reuters
Leah Wyar becomes beauty director at Cosmopolitan
Annie Potts and Kim Zimmer starring in Hallmark's 'Freshman Father'
Timothy Joseph Russert dies at age 85

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Overnights
Fox wins Monday with CBS on its tail
Averages a 4.3 in 18-49s to a 4.1, boosted by 'House,' the No. 1 show of the night with a 5.7. 'Big Bang' hits a series-high 5.1.

Cable
End may be near for 'Jon & Kate'
Kate predicts that TLC will cancel the show after viewership falls from 10.6 million to 1.7M now that the couple have separated

TV Reviews
'Hank,' Grammer vehicle without wheels
Comic actor has little to work with in this ABC sitcom, though it was clearly crafted around the sort of character he plays best

Research
One downside to being a hot TV show
TiVo users fast-forward through ads more often watching shows like 'Mad Men' and '30 Rock.' Talking with TiVo's Todd Juenger.

Alternative media
Fake mustaches, and not just for laughs
Handed out on campuses as part of a campaign for Fox's new 'Cleveland Show,' they end up on dorm mirrors and backpacks

Here & there
Another paper is putting up a pay wall
Other shorts: The latest buzz over Time Inc.'s potential sell off - Programming notes: BET J becomes Centric - One more reality contestant accused of killing wife

TV This Week
Patch for a troubled hour: 'Shark Tank'
But not likely to solve ABC's problems at 8 p.m., where a string of shows have bombed. Will this one last until November?

People
Barry Sonnenfeld sticks with ABC
The producer-director signs a first-look deal with the
network and ABC Studios Dave Penski rises to U.S. president at Zenith Media
Michael Hoar becomes group account director at Story Worldwide
Dennis Adamovich rises to SVP of brand and digital activation at Turner
Sean Gallagher rises to online managing editor at the LA Times
Jeff Price joins the board of directors at ClipSync
Karrie Wolfe rises at RDF Media Group
Kevin Whitmer rises to editor of the Newark Star-Ledger
Jonathan Allen becomes a congressional reporter at Politico
Alexia Tsotsis becomes web editor at SF Weekly
Mary C. Hickey becomes deputy editor at Ladies' Home Journal

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Overnights
CBS dominates Tuesday night again
Averages a 4.0 in 18-49s, 29 percent ahead of NBC. 'NCIS: LA' holds 93 percent of last week's debut audience. 'NCIS' is top show.

Television
Court dismisses Rather's $70M suit
Grants CBS's motion in two-year legal dispute with the former 'Evening News' anchor, who claimed his contract had been breached

Broadcast recap
ABC nabs first week of the new season
Averages a 3.3/9 in 18-49s, just ahead of CBS's 3.2/9, with three top new shows. Fox pulls a 3.1/9, NBC a 2.7/9. (Charts)

Cable recap
For rebranded Syfy, still a ways to go
Total audience is up just 1 percent in third quarter, and not among younger adults. Those demos are actually down. (Charts)

TV Reviews
'The Middle,' fresh take on family life
Funny, too, and made more so by Patricia Heaton playing it straight as an Indiana mom who's trying to hold it all together

Alternative media
Controversial BusRadio pulls the plug
Follows an FCC report on school bus advertising critical of the program, which opponents charged over-exposed kids to ads

Here & there
Web advertising rises to No. 1 in UK
Other shorts: TLC: Starting soon, it's just 'Kate Plus Eight' - Study: Humor makes for most effective ads - Programming notes: CBS eyes 'Minds' spinoff

TV This Week
With 'Cougar Town,' curse may be lifted
ABC show goes into week two with Courteney Cox looking to be the first 'Friends' alum to land a winning show. Can it keep it up?

People
Bobby Valentine returns to ESPN
The former Mets and Rangers manager will join
'Baseball Tonight' during the LCS Tom Blackett becomes UK chairman at Siegel+Gale
Michael Smith becomes president of Forbes.com
Lara Webb Barrett becomes partner at BeSeen Communications
Mary Jo Romeo becomes VP of ad sales at Mochila
Alexander Marin rises to SVP of distribution at Sony Pictures TV
Shashi Seth becomes SVP of global ad products at AOL
Mark Trammell becomes user research designer at Twitter
Matthew Rose rising to WSJ Washington deputy bureau chief
Robert Blackman becomes CEO at AmazingMail.com
Seth Green developing Fox animated project

Thursday, October 01, 2009

Overnights
ABC's new sitcoms hold up in week two
'Modern Family' averages a 3.7 in 18-49s, off 12 percent from its debut, while 'Cougar Town' averages a 3.6, down 18 percent

Magazines
Zuckerman joins the bidding for BW
NY Daily News owner: We'd run it more efficiently. Joins four other potential buyers of ailing BusinessWeek, led by Bloomberg.

Cable
USA sweeps third quarter in the ratings
Ranks once again as the top cable network, up 21 percent in total primetime viewers, and leads in 18-34s, 18-49s and 25-54s

Dayparts update
Sockeroo premiere week for 'Dr. Oz'
Averages a 2.3 household rating, tying 'Rachael Ray' debut and behind only 'Dr. Phil' as best daytime talk debut in seven years

Sports TV
For hockey, new season with big hopes
NHL returns to the ice rested after one of its best years ever. Can it do it again? Speaking with U. of Oregon's Paul Swangard.

Here & there
Comcast: No deal for NBC Universal
Other shorts: NYT expanding to Chicago after San Fran - GLAAD: Gay characters rise on broadcast - Post seeking 'America's Next Great Pundit'

TV This Week
Puzzling over the fate of CBS's 'CSI'
Too much is being made of last week's weaker debut compared to last season, but there's no doubt the aging drama is on a slide

People
Flavor Flav returning to high school
The dropout will try to earn his diploma, on a reality
TV show of course Curt Detweiler becomes EVP and ECD at McCann Erickson NA
Kash Sree becomes ECD at Pereira & O'Dell
Jason Culbertson becomes CD at MRM Worldwide
Luis Acevedo becomes CD at Cheil USA
Edward Georger rises to EVP of ad sales at Crown Media Holdings
Laurie Edwalds becomes ED of national accounts at Adspace
Alex Maghen moves to CTO at MySpace
Nicole Romanik becomes VP of business development at BBE
Barry Vigoda becomes managing editor at ESPNDallas.com
Former FCC chair Kevin Martin joins law firm Patton Boggs

Friday, October 02, 2009

Overnights
ABC walks away with another Thursday
Averages a 4.7 in 18-49s, 24 percent ahead of No. 2 CBS, as 'Private Practice' returns with a 4.5. 'FlashForward' and 'Survivor' tie.

Dayparts update
Letterman tops O'Brien in adults 18-49
In a major win, CBS's 'Late Show' averages a 1.3 to a 1.0 for NBC's 'Tonight' for the week, boosted by an Obama visit (charts)

Television
Letterman: I was a victim of a shakedown
Cops arrest man for attempting to extort $2 million from host of CBS's 'Late Show' over affairs he's had with women on the show

TV Preview
'Three Rivers,' wear chest-high waders
CBS drama about transplant doctors is a hard slog, poorly done in so many ways and largely scorned by media buyers and critics

Alternative media
Sneaking your ad into the big game
Here's some alternative media stunts of recent years that got advertisers exposure in stadiums without having to pay big bucks

Rachel speaks!
Rachel, help me, I've just lost my job
The writer has spent the last decade at his agency, and it's the only job he's ever had. He knows zip about how to find work.

Here & there
Jon to TLC: Stop filming my kids
Other shorts: The word: Comcast really is eyeing NBC Universal - London Evening Standard becomes a freebie - Programming notes: NBC trims back 'Day One' - Wanted: Marijuana critic for alternative paper

TV This Week
Best tube bets this weekend
Friday: 'Stargate Universe' debut on Syfy; Saturday: LSU vs. Georgia football on CBS; Sunday: 'Next Iron Chef' on Food

People
James Franco guesting on 'General Hospital'
The actor will play a troublemaker in Port Charles during
November sweeps TV Guide publisher Pete Haeffner booted
Nick Jones becomes EVP at Arc Worldwide
Chris Llewellyn becomes president and CEO at FIPP
Lisa Fung rises at the Los Angeles Times
Jason Holzman rises to SVP of brand creative at USA
Ben Rubin becomes creative director of marketing at Planet Green
Zach Toback becomes VP of news operations at NBC News
Tim Arango going to Iraq for The New York Times
Mike Keenan becomes hockey analyst for MSG
Bethenny Frankel, Christian Siriano and Fabio Viviani get reality series

Monday, September 21, 2009

Overnights
Emmys special sees a boost in viewers
Averages 13.3 million, up from 12.2 million last year and best since 2006, lifted by football and hosting by Neil Patrick Harris

Television
Big Emmy winner: The show itself
Neil Patrick Harris pulls off one of the best nights in years, and that was this year's big surprise. Complete list of winners.

TV Reviews
'Accidentally on Purpose,' knocked off
CBS sitcom closely follows the hit movie 'Knocked Up,' too closely, while relying on too many tired sitcom gimmicks

Television
This season, Monday belongs to CBS
That's according to media planners and buyers, who rank its primetime lineup the strongest, with 'Big Bang' the show to watch

Television
And it looks like fourth quarter as well
Media planners and buyers rate CBS's fall lineup tops. Most anticipated show: ABC's 'FlashForward.' Biggest dud: Fox's 'Brothers.'

Here & there
'Leno' scores best Friday since May
Other shorts: After two controversial years, Facebook dims Beacon - CNN's Sanchez to Fox News: 'Yes, I'm talking to you' - Ex-Globe publisher joins cousin's bid for newspaper

TV This Week
For fading 'Heroes,' perhaps its last shot
Once-hot NBC show returns in a tougher hour, and very much in need of a creative infusion. Without it, this season could be it.

Overnights
Fox wins Thursday on returning shows
'Bones' and 'Fringe' combine for a 3.0 in 18-49s, just edging NBC's all-new lineup. Solid debut for 'Community.' 'Leno' slips.

This week in out of home
Your client at a tailgating party

There's a lot to be said for reaching out to tailgaters as they party before NFL games. Cost is just one reason.

Alternative media

Harsh spring for out-of-home
Pouring one giant cup of morning joe
Be warned: 'Vampire lair discovered'
On news racks, a message that glows

People
Steve Lanzano becomes TVB president
The MPG COO will replace Christopher Rohrs at the Television
Bureau of Advertising beginning next year
Gordon H. Smith becomes CEO of the NAB
Twelve rise at Hearst Magazines Digital Media
Larry Aidem becomes president and CEO of RayV
John Wells becomes president of Writers Guild of America, West
Will Lee becomes executive editor at HollywoodLife.com
Sydelle Moore becomes deputy web editor at The Hill
Jill Chappell rises to editorial producer at CNN
Penn and Teller starring in ABC project
Shana Goldberg-Meehan writing ABC sitcom
Editor Irving Kristol dies at age 89

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Overnights
Fox takes first night of the new season
Averages 6.5 in 18-49s for two-hour 'House' debut, up 14 percent over last year. 'Leno' sinks to series-low 1.8. Bang-up 'Bang.'

Television
Fox orders up a full season of 'Glee'
First pickup of the new season, just one day in, after a solid debut that earned the high school comedy a 3.5 in 18-49s

Television
Coming fall free-for-all, night by night
A look at the weeknight broadcast lineups and who's strong and in what demographics. Talking with Starcom's Sam R. Armando.

Television
This fall, Tuesday goes to CBS as well
Media buyers and planners pick it as the likely winner based on its lineup of solid dramas airing against a slew of reality shows

TV Reviews
'The Good Wife,' with a story to be told
In this CBS drama, Julianna Margulies plays a Chicago defense attorney who in her work reveals the private pain in her life

TV Preview
'NCIS: Los Angeles,' a shoo-in as a hit
Spinoff of CBS's 'NCIS' takes the formula west. With its pedigree it's a good bet to be the top new show among total viewers.

Here & there
A fake New York Post, from the Yes Men
Other shorts: ABC study: Newspapers really dig this mobile thing - Facebook teams with Nielsen for new ad project - Dow Jones closing Far Eastern Economic Review - FCC's Genachowski: Let's get behind net neutrality

TV This Week
For ABC's 'The Forgotten,' likely soon
It has a name star, Christian Slater, but little else, and it's in a killer timeslot where the network has struggled for years

People
Dan Rather gets his day in court
New York State Supreme Court judge rejects CBS's
attempt to have the case dismissed Heather Locklear returning to 'Melrose Place'
Erica Hoholick rises to MD at TBWA\Chiat\Day L.A.
Cyril Lemaire becomes CMO at Genuine Interactive
Rey Peralta becomes creative technologist at Mother NY
Lauren McHale rises to director of sales at Katz Advantage Sports
Danny Tepper becomes director of programming at DIY Network
Alpha Media CEO Stephen Duggan resigns
John French becomes CEO at Cygnus Business Media
Olga Boyko becomes events editor at New York Daily News
NATAS president Frank Radice resigns

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Overnights
Super premiere for CBS's 'NCIS: LA'
Averages a 4.3 in 18-49s, holding 93 percent of 'NCIS' lead-in, and 18.3 million total viewers, winning the night for the network

Broadcast recap
Broadcast season starts off with a bang
New and returning shows are turning in hefty ratings after a string of weak season starts. Even the Emmys show was up. (charts)

Television
Obama bumps 'Late' to four-year high
President's chat with Letterman draws 7.22 million, best since Oprah's 2005 appearance on the show, topping O'Brien and old rival Leno

Television
This fall, CBS also gets Wednesdays
Media planners and buyers credit its proven lineup on a night when the other broadcast networks are entirely revamping theirs

TV Reviews
'Modern Family,' fresh angle, and funny
New ABC sitcom mines the most familiar of all TV comedy genres without sinking into the mire of cliches we've come to expect

Cable recap
A cynical lot, those younger adults
The tastes of viewers 18-34 run to the dark and nasty, which becomes clear looking at the top 50 shows in that demo (charts)

Here & there
Twitter jitter: 'Is BusinessWeek closing?'
Other shorts: 'Idol' announcement fuels 'Ellen' ratings surge - Nielsen releases results of first radio survey - PBS leads News Emmy winners with six trophies - Omaha officials ban radio station's bra promotion

TV This Week
NBC's 'Mercy': Nurses to the rescue
Are nurses the new doctors? Perhaps on cable, where two series pulled strong numbers this summer. Will it work on broadcast?

People
J.J. Abrams going for laughs
The 'Fringe' and 'Lost' creator is working on a new
medical comedy at Fox Nick Waters becomes CEO of Aegis Media Asia-Pacific
Donna Ebbs becomes programming SVP at Hasbro-Discovery network
Frank Kavilanz and Elizabeth Barrett move to ABC News Digital
Stuart Baxter rises to SEVP of European distribution at Sony Pictures TV
Hillary Duff and Estee Cross join Prevention magazine
Ryan Brown rises to House Beautiful's national home furnishings director
Diane Debrovner rises to deputy editor at Parents
Dave Sims and Doug Flutie join Versus' UFL team
Campbell Scott and Martin Short join FX's 'Damages'
Scott Hamilton and Dorothy Hamill starring in Fox skating special

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Overnights
Strong debuts for two ABC sitcoms
'Modern Family' and 'Cougar Town' both average a 4.3 in 18-49s and build on 'Dancing with the Stars' lead-in, giving ABC a tie for first

Magazines
Another bidder for BusinessWeek
ZelnickMedia and former WSJ publisher Crovitz reportedly team up to pursue the 80-year-old publication, way late to the table

Television
This fall, Thursday night goes to ABC
Media buyers and planners think it's got the edge to take what's traditionally been the most competitive night on broadcast

TV Reviews
'FlashForward,' at risk of becoming lost
ABC's paranormal drama is compelling and well done. The risk is that it will make the same mistakes that knocked 'Lost' off course.

Magazines
The case for East West's return to print
Title for Asian-Americans went online-only last year but now it's coming back in print. Talking with editor Anita Malik.

Alternative media
Pop-up: Letting wee cats tell the story
Call it cat-vertising. Store full of cats opens as a lure to pet-loving passersby. Client: Eco-friendly litter box maker.

Here & there
Newsday publisher Knight exiting
Other shorts: Arbitron on Congressional report: Ah, phooey - Rivals unite for one big Times Square billboard buy - Study: In Charles Gibson TV viewers trust - Programming notes: MTV sticks with DJ AM series

TV This Week
CBS takes its best shot: 'The Mentalist'
Moving last season's top new show in viewers to the 10 p.m. timeslot, it's aiming to dominate the hour as NBC's 'ER' once did

People
Stephen Root joins Fox's '24'
The actor will play a Department of Corrections officer
searching for a parolee Anne Fulenwider becomes executive editor at Marie Claire
Joe Lagani becomes SVP of ad sales at iVillage
Shari Weisenberg becomes SVP of marketing at Sundance Channel
Barry Chamberlain rises to EVP of sales at CBS Studios International
Ed Frazier becomes managing director at AmericanLife Network
Jody Salamirad becomes director of West Coast sales at Lotame
Steven B. Smith becomes SVP of publisher relations at PGA
David Kohl becomes EVP of sales at Vevo
Maggie Murphy becomes SVP of development at Cookie Jar
Natalie Zea joins FX's 'Lawman'

Friday, September 25, 2009

Overnights
'FlashForward' debut beats 'Survivor'
ABC drama averages a 4.1 in 18-49s to a 3.7 for the CBS reality series and wins in total viewers as well: 12.4 million to 11.9 million

Television
Viewers and critics split over 'Leno'
Study finds 75 percent of viewers give his show an A or B grade, while critics largely dismiss it as just a 'Tonight Show' rehash

Television
This fall, NBC will take Sunday night
Media planners and buyers think football will give it an edge over ABC, with many believing Sunday games will see ratings soar

Television
As for Friday, that goes to CBS again
It will be a much more competitive night this fall, yet planners and buyers believe the network will prevail with its scripted shows

TV Preview
'Brothers,' catch it while you can
Fox black family sitcom has little going for it and lots against it, including a berth on a night on which sitcoms do poorly

Rachel speaks!
Rachel, on considering a new career
An experienced recruiter offers tips on making the jump from your present job to a new line of work and where to find help

Here & there
NBC's 'Press' wins 12th straight season
Other shorts: Programming notes: CW bites off more 'Diaries' - Ad sales woman: I was axed for blowing the whistle - Magna: DVR subscribers will balloon to 50.7 million

TV This Week
Best tube bets this weekend
Friday: 'L&O' premiere on NBC; Saturday: 'Children of the Corn' on Syfy; Sunday: 'Mario's Green House' on TV One

People
At 'L&O: CI,' a changing of the guard
Original cast members Vincent D'Onofrio and
Kathryn Erbe are leaving the USA show
The word: Mark Pasetsky becomes OK! editor
Susie Fitzgerald becomes SVP of scripted development at AMC
Laura Giacalone becomes VP of marketing at Planet Green
Stephanie Bratcher and Carlen Dixon join the SEC Digital Network
Weather Channel's Lisa Gersh moves to NBC News
Caroline Campbell becomes VP of communications at AOL
Al Sharpton hosting USA's 'WWE Monday Night Raw'
Corynne Steindler joins HollywoodLife.com
Jerry Bruckheimer developing another pilot for ABC
Mark Burnett producing 'People's Choice Awards'

Monday, Sept. 14 2009

Overnights
Stronger kick for 'Sunday Night Football'
Bears-Packers game averages 13.4 household rating, up 3 percent over last year's opener, for broadcast's best Sunday night since February

Research
Pew: Fewer and fewer trust the media
Study finds all-time low in those who think news organizations 'get the facts straight,' at just 29 percent. Most perceive some bias, too.

Television
Sure Emmys: '30 Rock' and 'Mad Men'
Media planners and buyers pick those two shows to dominate the awards, winning as best shows and best actors and actresses

TV Reviews
'The Tyra Banks Show,' back to you, Tyra
Everythin