Fox News was the most-watched cable network, both in total day and in prime time, for the month of August. The network fell 13 percent in total prime time viewers, and fell 29 percent in the news demo compared to August 2015, a month during which the network delivered the most-watched non-sports program in cable history (the first GOP presidential debate). Looking at the full day (6 a.m. – 6 a.m.), Fox News improved 5.5 percent in total viewers, but fell less than 1 percent in the news demo versus August 2015.
In August, FNC claimed the eight out of the top 10 programs in total viewers and seven out of the top 10 in the 25-54 demo among cable news, led by The O’Reilly Factor. Hannity delivered its 2nd-most-watched month in total viewers and 3rd-highest-rated in the A25-54 demo since its launch in October 2013. One can pretty safely say that Donald Trump had a significant impact on this boost in ratings.
The Kelly File finished No. 2 in total viewers, but fell to No. 3 in the news demo behind Hannity, a drop perhaps due to her 2-week vacation from the program, as well as a multitude of Trump appearances on Hannity. On the Record with Greta Van Susteren was up 2 percent in total viewers, marking the 35th consecutive month as the most-watched cable news show in the 7 p.m. timeslot.
Fox News’ daytime programs all delivered year-over-year improvements, led by an 18 percent bump in the key A25-54 demo for Outnumbered.
Lastly, Fox Business’ Varney & Co notched its first monthly win over CNBC in total viewers, and Lou Dobbs Tonight hit 8 consecutive months as the most-watched business show in his 7 p.m. timeslot.
The ratings for August 2016:
- Prime time (Mon-Sun): 2,083,000 Total Viewers / 374,000 A25-54
- Total Day (Mon-Sun): 1,253,000 Total Viewers / 237,000 A25-54
(via: Adweek)
