ABC Stays Strong Amid Rocky Year For Broadcast; Unscripted Hits Like ‘The Golden Bachelor’ Buoy Fall Ratings After Solid Spring Start With Scripted Fare

deadline.com:

EXCLUSIVE: Despite a difficult year for broadcast television, ABC can look back with confidence as it kicked off the year with some strong scripted content and was buoyed through a rocky fall season primarily by unscripted content.

The broadcast network managed to hold strong throughout the entire year with the return of series including The Rookie and American Idol, as well as the introduction of new favorites like Will Trent and The Golden Bachelor. “ABC’s success this season demonstrates the ongoing vitality of the linear network offering and its invaluable role in delivering content to audiences across platforms,” Debra OConnell, president, Networks and TV Business Operations, Disney Entertainment Television said in statement to Deadline. “It’s been a tremendous year for the network and we’re looking forward to building on this success in the months ahead.” Added Craig Erwich, president, Disney Television Group: “I am so proud of the team at ABC for the strategy and creative excellence that propelled the network to #1 in entertainment last season and again in the demo this fall.

This past year, we successfully introduced the latest pop culture sensation with The Golden Bachelor, brought back a fan favorite – Dancing with the Stars, delivered can’t-miss live events, and transported audiences through our scripted series, including our newest, Will Trent and Not Dead Yet.” Here are some of the highlights: Will Trent kicked off the year on a high note, improving the Tuesday 10 p.m.

slot by 170% in total viewers for ABC, according to Nielsen data. The time period was also up 57% among adults 18-49. It’s hard to compete with CBS’ Tuesday FBI lineup, which consistently pulls some of the largest linear audiences for