In the midst of a long-term disruption in the industry, the 4 big tv networks have to be happy that they have a slight increase in viewership for the year so far, increasing by 2% collectively, which equals about a million viewers over last year at the same time.
ABC (DIS) is still on top as they are performing strongly, scoring 3 of the top 5 shows with "Grey's Anatomy," "Desperate Housewives" and "Lost", along with having a great first-year show in "Ugly Betty." They also have reality show "Dancing with the Stars," that is doing so well that they're going to add another one to this year's schedule.
CBS (CBS) continues with its consistency offering a number of criminal related shows: "Without a Trace," "Criminal Minds," "Cold Case."
NBC, while improving a lot, has nowhere to go but up from their dismal, recent past. They do seem to be trying some new things that have some potential to differentiate themselves and seem to be adding a higher quality product to their schedule.
Fox, with the exception of "House," is way back in the pack, but everyone knew this while they are waiting to launch their heavyweight shows after the beginning of the year with "American Idol" and "24" getting ready to start.
Overall, the networks have to be excited that they are holding their own during this time of change.
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