Shit ratings can become a downward spiral once the advertisers start to bail.
The companies that can afford to advertise on the highest rated shows also have the most money to produce entertaining ads. Most people hate ads, but still find some of them entertaining. As viewers drop, the richest advertisers run to other more popular shows. The producers have to drop the ad rates charged to get new advertisers. The new crop of advertisers aren't as well moneyed, so they are less likely to have entertaining ads (which means they are more annoying).
When people are more annoyed by ads, they are more likely to change the channel at commercial breaks.
Shit ratings can become a downward spiral once the advertisers start to bail.
The companies that can afford to advertise on the highest rated shows also have the most money to produce entertaining ads. Most people hate ads, but still find some of them entertaining. As viewers drop, the richest advertisers run to other more popular shows. The producers have to drop the ad rates charged to get new advertisers. The new crop of advertisers aren't as well moneyed, so they are less likely to have entertaining ads (which means they are more annoying).
When people are more annoyed by ads, they are more likely to change the channel at commercial breaks.
We'll know we hit the sweet spot when FOX is running ads for Ginsu Knives.
Exactly. Sunsetter Awnings ads would be another sign of victory.