The Walking Dead season six premiere was watched by “only” 14.63 million people, a steep drop from season five’s 17.29 million. At the time, it was considered a statistical anomaly, nothing for AMC to worry about. But episode two, “JSS,” dropped to 12.18 million, which makes sense — premieres almost always have better numbers than the episodes following it — except 12.18 is The Walking Dead‘s lowest rating since the middle of season four. Wall Street analysts, who might as well be zombies, have taken notice.
AMC Networks’ stock price staggered today following the release of dreary ratings numbers for the second episode of the new season of The Walking Dead, and words of warning from a Wall Street analyst initiating coverage of the company. (Via)
There are a lot of buts here (zombies and buts? Tina Belcher is listening). Yes, next-day ratings are down, BUT The Walking Dead has been facing stiff competition from Sunday Night Football (Patriots vs. Colts was the highest-rated game in SNF history) and the MLB playoffs. And as noted by Deadline, “Last week, the total audience grew 33 percent, and viewers in the target rose 36 percent when viewers who time-shifted the show were folded in.” Meaning, people are still watching The Walking Dead. BUT not always live.
The Walking Dead will be fine. And if it’s not, blame Travis.
(Via Deadline)
