As millions across the country popped champagne and counted down to 2024, ABC and CBS provided the perfect backdrop with their New Year’s Eve specials, which have now shattered previous viewership records.
On ABC, “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2024″ was the talk of the town. The first segment of the show, airing from 8 to 10 p.m., drew in a whopping 7 million viewers, a significant increase from the 5.2 million last year. It wasn’t just about the numbers; the energy and excitement were palpable, resonating with the 18-49 age group, where the show saw a 33% rise in ratings. This celebration, a blend of nostalgia and fresh entertainment, marked the highest-rated broadcast of the event since 2020.
As midnight approached, the second half of ABC’s show truly sparkled. With a 2.93 rating among adults 18-49, it wasn’t just another show; it was the most-watched primetime entertainment since the Oscars. The late-night portion was even more impressive, drawing in 22.2 million viewers at its peak. The moment the ball dropped, ratings soared to 6.41, signaling a 30% jump from last year’s figures. It was a moment of unity, as viewers nationwide shared in the joy and hope that comes with the start of a new year.
Over at CBS, “Nashville’s Big Bash” brought its flavor of celebration. Boosted by the thrilling NFL game that preceded it, the show captivated an audience of 7.85 million throughout the night, marking a staggering 75% increase from last year. The prime time hours were particularly strong, with an average of 8.21 million viewers, peaking at 11.93 million in the early segment. The blend of country music charm and the electric atmosphere of Nashville proved irresistible to viewers, making it a night to remember.
Moreover, CBS made significant strides in the digital realm. Their New Year’s Eve special emerged as the most-watched live-streamed program on Paramount+ and CBS’ streaming sites for the day. This digital success underscores the growing trend of multi-platform viewing, as audiences seek to connect with live events in new and diverse ways.
The triumph of these New Year’s Eve specials is a testament to the power of traditional TV in bringing people together for shared experiences. In an age where streaming platforms are often seen as the future, ABC and CBS have shown that broadcast TV still holds a magic touch for special events. As 2024 begins, these networks have set a high bar for televised entertainment, reminding us of the joy and community that live TV can bring into our homes.