ShareThisTelevision Stations--The Big Networks
Over 20 television broadcasters compete for viewers. However, four network broadcasters hold the power seat. CBS, ABC, NBC, and FOX are the most widely viewed television networks. These networks change tv programming regularly in order to compete.
CBS Network Is a Survivor
CBS has long had success in television with tv shows like I Love Lucy, All in the Family, Oprah, and Wheel of Fortune. Scandals like Janet Jackson's 2004 Superbowl wardrobe malfunction and the allegations of forgery against 60 Minutes have created controversy for the network. Nevertheless, CBS is the nation's most watched tv network. Television programs like CSI and Survivor bring in the ratings.
ABC Network Has Roots
With the mini-series Roots, ABC achieved first place ratings. The success wasn't lasting, however. ABC soon languished until the television show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. Television dramas like Desperate Housewives, Grey's Anatomy, and Lost have helped ABC maintain top ratings, though its reality television programming flopped. Despite duds like The Bachelor, ABC is America's 2nd-most-watched network.
NBC Network Needs Friends
At one time, the NBC network ranked number one in the U.S., with the television program Friends supporting the network's success. Once Friends ended, NBC's ratings dropped. To regain ratings, NBC produced wide-screen programming and has launched its first-ever week long television program, Deal or No Deal.
FOX Network Is in the House
For the first ten years, FOX wasn't a competitor with the Big Three. Then several television shows launched the network, including The X-files and The Simpsons. Nevertheless, the network almost lost out with a spate of reality television shows. By broadcasting the Superbowl XXXIV and having success with television programs like House, The OC, and American Idol, FOX ranked #1 in the 18-49 demographic for the first time last year.
Fortunately for viewers, the television networks' competition produces an abundance of solid entertainment.
Sources
Wikipedia--"NBC"
Wikipedia--"CBS"
Wikipedia--"ABC"
Wikipedia--"Fox Broadcasting"
Wikipedia--"Television Network"
