In 2024, sports took over our screens with the Super Bowl and the Paris Olympics leading the charge. People everywhere tuned in, making them the year’s biggest events. Alongside live sports, TV favorites like ‘Tracker’ and ‘Young Sheldon’ also captured viewers’ hearts.
Television ratings for 2024 revealed a year dominated by major sports events and some standout series. Sports fans had plenty to cheer about, with football and Olympic games drawing millions. Meanwhile, shows like ‘Tracker’ and ‘Young Sheldon’ kept audiences engaged, proving that drama and comedy still have a vital place amidst the competition.
Sports Reign Supreme
Football and the Olympics stood out as the most dominant programs in 2024’s broadcast landscape. An incredible 45 NFL games found their way into the year’s top 100 shows. The Super Bowl alone attracted millions, reaffirming its status as a television juggernaut. The Paris Summer Olympics added to the tally, with thrilling competitions capturing the world’s attention.
The Football Frenzy
Once again, the NFL was the king of the airwaves, taking up numerous spots in the ratings. From divisional playoffs to nail-biting Sunday night games, football brought viewers together in a shared spectacle. The NFC Championship and AFC Divisional games were especially popular, captivating fans with every touchdown.
The unexpected presence of the World Series highlighted the season, with a five-game clash between the Dodgers and the Yankees drawing significant attention. Last year’s absence made this year’s baseball triumph particularly sweet, as the series tapped into the excitement of a classic sports rivalry.
Olympic Achievements
The Olympics dazzled audiences with a mix of tradition and new events. Spectators tuned in eagerly to watch athletes from around the globe compete. The familiar awe of opening ceremonies combined with outstanding athletic performances to make it a showcase of global talent.
NBC capitalized on the Olympic opportunity, offering prime coverage of the games. Ratings flourished, with viewers following everything from gymnastics to track events. This comprehensive coverage solidified NBC’s status as a leader in sports broadcasting.
Election Year Highlights
2024’s presidential debate was more than just political theatre—it was a must-see event. The September debate hosted by ABC captivated over 67 million viewers, emphasizing the public’s continued interest in political discourse.
Such high numbers made it the second most-watched telecast of the year, only behind the Super Bowl. The debate served as a reminder that election years consistently elevate interest in televised political events.
TV Shows Making Waves
While sports dominated the charts, scripted series found room for success, particularly on CBS. The thrilling ‘Tracker’ took 15 spots in the ratings, resonating with audiences nationwide. The engaging plot kept viewers hooked, eager for each new episode.
Meanwhile, ‘Young Sheldon’ wrapped up with back-to-back finale episodes that enthralled viewers. These final chapters of the beloved series were among the year’s must-watch events, ensuring its place in TV history.
Network Giants
In a battle of networks, NBC emerged victorious with 38 top telecast slots, demonstrating its broadcast power. Sunday Night Football was a major contributor, drawing massive audiences each week.
CBS wasn’t far behind, fueled by its gripping dramas and Sunday night staples. ABC and Fox also made their mark, with intriguing offerings that pulled in loyal viewers. Amid streaming services, traditional networks still held sway.
The Takeaway from 2024
Reflecting on 2024, it’s apparent that sports are an unstoppable television force. They captivate and unite audiences, providing moments of collective excitement and joy.
Television, however, is diverse. While sports are stars, shows like ‘Tracker’ and ‘Young Sheldon’ remind us of TV’s storytelling power. Each piece plays a part in the broader entertainment puzzle.
With the conclusion of 2024, TV has proven once again its power to entertain and inform. From sports spectacles to beloved series, viewers stayed tuned.
As we look back, it’s clear that this year in television offered something for every viewer, leaving us eager for what’s to come.
Source: Variety
