Suddenly, AEW Dynamite hit an all-time low in ratings this week’s time slot. The event drew in 502,000 viewers, a significant drop of 26% from the previous week. Of more concern to the company is a significant 30% decline in its core demographic of 18-49 year olds. The drop in ratings led to a wave of backlash and direct decisions from AEW and Warner Bros. Discovery Channel (WBD).
Importance Influences: From ‘The Big Bang Theory’ to ‘Black Panther’
A major reason for the drop in ratings is the show’s programming changes. In fact, “AEW Dynamite” follows “The Big Bang Theory,” drawing 200,000 to 250,000 viewers until the final quarter-hour. But the star of the week was Marvel’s “Black Panther,” which drew fewer than 85,000 viewers in its final quarter-hour. Sources within AEW and WBD believe that this huge difference in core viewership played a major role in Dynamite’s declining ratings.
Outdoor competitions: June 10, sports and weather
Warner Bros. Discovery Channel pointed out other reasons for the drop in ratings. This week is the June holiday and falls in the middle of the week. In addition, the competition is intense in the first season, with the Olympic Trials and the College Baseball World Series running at the same time. WBD also reports that much of the country, especially the Northeast, is dealing with extreme weather, making it impossible for people to go outside and turn away from the television.
Demographic changes: Analyzing audiences by age group
Dave Meltzer of The Wrestling Observer stated that the main reason for the drop in ratings was a significant drop in ratings in the 35-49 age group, which was generally sustained. Interestingly, Meltzer previously criticized AEW’s low ratings for the 18-34 age group, but this age group’s ratings are expected to increase compared to the previous week.
Meltzer dismissed the Juneteenth holiday as a major factor, though he did acknowledge that Kendrick Lamar’s live concert, streamed via Amazon Prime, might have siphoned off some viewers.
Internal Reactions and Rationalizations
Inside AEW, the reaction to the low numbers has been a mixture of concern and rationalization. Some sources within the company have pointed to the unusual lead-in scenario as a primary reason for the drop. There is a belief that the regular viewers who tune in after “The Big Bang Theory” simply weren’t there this week. This theory is supported by the significant difference in lead-in audience numbers between the usual and this week’s programming.
Warner Bros. Discovery’s Perspective
Sources within WBD echoed the sentiment that this week was atypical. They described it as a “very odd week in general,” pointing to the unique confluence of factors including the holiday, competing sporting events, and favorable weather. While they acknowledged the low numbers, they seemed to view this as an outlier rather than a trend.
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Social Media Reaction and Speculation
On social media, fans and commentators have been vocal about the possible reasons for the ratings dip. Many have pointed to Kendrick Lamar’s concert as a significant factor, though this was not mentioned by sources within AEW or WBD. The social media buzz highlights a broader range of speculation and theories, showing the diverse opinions and interests of the viewership base.
Looking Ahead: Strategies and Expectations
As AEW and WBD analyze this week’s ratings, the focus will likely be on adjusting strategies to avoid similar drops in the future. Ensuring a consistent and strong lead-in, avoiding major competitive programming where possible, and perhaps even considering the impact of weather and holidays will be key factors in their planning. The company will need to balance these elements while continuing to deliver compelling content to retain and grow its audience.
