The Nightly Network Newscasts of CBS and ABC hit record low ratings last week.  The slump coincided with the regular anchors from both broadcasts, Katie Couric of CBS and Charles Gibson of ABC, taking the week off and being replaced by substitute anchors.  However CBS News’ previous record ratings low came a mere two weeks ago and was anchored by Couric.

With all the fuss being made over the decline of the newspaper, it looks as though the nightly newscast, at least in the format the networks are holding onto, is in hot water as well.  Why wait till 6:30 or 7:00 to get your news when it is available all day, every day on the Internet and 24 hour news channels?  I haven’t watched the network news since the early 90’s, mainly due to concerns over quality.  Although the act of sitting down and turning on the news after a long day is relaxing, I feel much better off watching the NewsHour on PBS where informed analysis of current events by real experts is the draw, rather than the simple recitation of the news by a “trusted voice” which is what the networks are still banking on.

LINKS:

HuffPo: “CBS Evening News,” “ABC World News” Hit All Time Ratings Lows

Bayou Buzz: CBS, ABC Broadcast News Ratings Show Turn Off Of Liberal Bias

AP: Viewers tune out networks’ nightly news