CBS, whose audience average median age is literally 55 years old, pulled the trigger early and renewed a good two thirds or more of its primetime line-up yesterday, ensuring that the geriatric set will not have its stories taken away from them before they enter hospice care. The list of shows renewed stands at 18, so far, including four comedies, nine dramas, three reality series and two news magazines. The list: “The Good Wife,” “2 Broke Girls,” “NCIS,” “NCIS: Los Angeles,” “Criminal Minds,” “CSI,” “The Mentalist,” “Person of Interest,” “Blue Bloods,” “Hawaii Five-0,” “Mike & Molly,” “How I Met Your Mother,” and “Big Bang Theory” (real nerds watch “Community”). “60 Minutes” and “48 Hours,” as well as “Survivor,” “The Amazing Race,” and “Undercover Boss,” are also returning.
Absent from the list of renewals: “Two and a Half Men.” Don’t read too much into that. It’s a top 10 show. The hang-up right now is ongoing negotiations with Ashton Kutcher. If he returns, so does the show. Meanwhile, two “CSI” installments (New York and Miami) remain on the bubble, as does “Rules of Engagement” and “Rob.” “Unforgettable” is also on the bubble (though it will probably be renewed) as is “A Gifted Man” (it probably will not be renewed).
It’s a great day for your grandparents.