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Nielsen IAG: Politics as Usual

For seven cable networks, there was a partisan bent

Oct 20, 2008

-By Will Levith


Which cable series are the most engaging among self-identified Democrats and Republicans?

Nielsen IAG generated its latest engagement study over 12 months. The research firm looked into the series attaining the highest scores, by cable network, that often received “bipartisan support.” For nine of the 16 networks, the most engaging series was the leader among panelists from both parties, including dramas such as Lifetime’s Army Wives, and reality series like HGTV’s Design Star. (These same nine programs were the most engaging among Independents.)

On the other hand, for seven cable networks, there was a more partisan bent. Among the more amusing findings from the survey: Comedy Central’s The Colbert Report ranked tops with Democrats, while South Park was more engaging among GOPers. And FX’s darkly comedic It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia scored higher for Democrats, while darkly dramatic Damages led among Republicans.

Regardless of your political persuasion, though, we can all agree that TV is a great diversion—and a fantastic escape from politics!




Nielsen IAG: Politics as Usual

For seven cable networks, there was a partisan bent

Oct 20, 2008

-By Will Levith


Which cable series are the most engaging among self-identified Democrats and Republicans?

Nielsen IAG generated its latest engagement study over 12 months. The research firm looked into the series attaining the highest scores, by cable network, that often received “bipartisan support.” For nine of the 16 networks, the most engaging series was the leader among panelists from both parties, including dramas such as Lifetime’s Army Wives, and reality series like HGTV’s Design Star. (These same nine programs were the most engaging among Independents.)

On the other hand, for seven cable networks, there was a more partisan bent. Among the more amusing findings from the survey: Comedy Central’s The Colbert Report ranked tops with Democrats, while South Park was more engaging among GOPers. And FX’s darkly comedic It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia scored higher for Democrats, while darkly dramatic Damages led among Republicans.

Regardless of your political persuasion, though, we can all agree that TV is a great diversion—and a fantastic escape from politics!

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