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Nielsen Adjustment Makes Super Bowl LVII Most-Watched of All Time

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As the sports calendar turns each year, it is a virtual guarantee that the Super Bowl will be at the top of the ratings ladder. The question is whether or not it will outperform the previous year, and the metrics are especially important to broadcast networks, advertisers and media executives.

Three months after the game, Nielsen Media Research is refining its viewership measurement of Super Bowl LVII to an average of 115.1 million viewers across FOX, FOX Deportes and digital platforms. The change makes it the most viewed television program in American history.

The achievement caps off a stellar year for FOX Sports, during which it broadcast the 2022 FIFA World Cup; inked a new deal with the Big 12; and announced plans to add Derek Jeter to its baseball coverage and the aforementioned Brady to its football coverage among other things. FOX Sports previously announced an average audience of 113 million viewers for Super Bowl LVII, which placed it as the third most-viewed Super Bowl of all time behind Super Bowl XLIX (NBC Sports) and Super Bowl LI (FOX Sports). The latter game contained the extraordinary 25-point comeback by Tom Brady and the New England Patriots to defeat the Atlanta Falcons.

The research company’s previous measurement accidentally associated over 1 million viewers to an internal NFL Network feed of the game when, in reality, those views were with FOX Sports. Moreover, the probe of the error revealed an additional 1 million viewers that were left unaccounted for because of an error related to out-of-home viewership. Nielsen Media Research discovered its mistake independently and made FOX Sports and the National Football League aware.

“We strive to meet the highest standards for transparency and accuracy in audience measurement,” Nielsen Media Research said in a statement provided to Bill Shea and Richard Deistch of The Athletic. “The Super Bowl continues to be a unique media event in terms of its size and diversity in how audiences watch the game. We appreciate the support and collaboration from our partners at FOX and the NFL to correct previously unknown errors to ultimately provide a more accurate measure for this year’s total audience for the game.”

The development renders Super Bowl LVII, in which the Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 38-35 to win its second Super Bowl championship in the last four years, the most-watched Super Bowl of all time. Its average viewership finished ahead of Super Bowl XLIX, broadcast in 2015 by NBC, and marks a historic moment for FOX Sports with its new lead commentary booth of Kevin Burkhardt and Greg Olsen. The network expects to add Tom Brady in the fold at the start of the 2024 season on a 10-year contract worth a reported $375 million.

Sarah Palin: Fox News ‘Didn’t Have the Guts’ To Tell Me I Was Fired

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Fox News has caught the ire of some political commentators after its decision to dismiss Tucker Carlson last week. Former Fox News contributor and Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin took aim at the way the network operates and shared an anecdote of her time there.

During an appearance on Eric Bolling The Balance on Newsmax Monday, Palin claimed that when she “got canned” by the network in 2015, no one from the network ever reached out to her.

“I don’t want to interject any of my bias in the way that they operate, but I will tell you one thing about the way they operate,” Palin said. “When I was informed that I was no longer working for them, I wasn’t even informed! They didn’t have the guts to call me. They called my now ex-husband. And I thought that was really weird and weak. And I just said I wouldn’t speak ill of them, but I just spoke ill of them, yes.”

Palin’s comments came after she said Fox News and other “woke, disconnected elites who call the shows in lame-stream media” have underestimated the size and scale of what American news media consumers are looking for.

The former Alaska Governor worked as a contributor to Fox News from 2010 to 2015, before the network severed ties with her. She was hired by former Fox News CEO Roger Ailes, who once claimed “I hired Sarah Palin because she was hot and got ratings”. The two had a tumultuous relationship, that included Palin claiming she felt “uncomfortable” during a meeting with the disgraced former executive.

Bolling –a former Fox News host who departed the network after sexual harassment allegations he has continually denied — argued that the network “always represented a gamut of conservative voices”, but has now “gotten greedy” by trying to court a wider audience by shifting to the left.

NFL Network, NFL RedZone Return to Comcast XFinity

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The deal got worked out quietly, but less than 24 hours after Comcast dropped NFL Media channels from its XFinity lineup, both NFL Network and NFL RedZone are back.

Mike Florio reports that a deal was struck between the heads of both organizations. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and Comcast CEO Brian Roberts spoke on Monday afternoon.

No formal announcement came from the conversation. Florio reports that most viewers with complaints and questions found out by asking Comcast customer service on Twitter. “We have renewed our agreement with the NFL Network. At this time, all content has been restored, and you are able to access NFL Network programming as normal,” was the stock response.

An earlier deal between the league and Comcast expired on May 1. Terms of a new deal were not disclosed.

Jimmy Pitaro: ESPN Going Direct to Consumer ‘a When, Not an If’

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Jimmy Pitaro and Bob Iger have spoken nearly every day since Iger returned as head of the Walt Disney Company according to Bloomberg. The bulk of their conversations center on the future of ESPN and when the network leaves linear television and becomes a streaming service.

“We’re going to get to a point where we take our entire network, our flagship programming, and make it available direct to consumer,” Pitaro said. “That’s a ‘when,’ not an ‘if’….We’re only going to do it when it makes sense for our business and for our bottom line.”

There is no rush to leave the traditional cable bundle. Although the number of US households that use cable or satellite TV continues to shrink, ESPN generated $28 billion in revenue for Disney last year.

But there is an eye toward the future. ESPN has already been emphasizing streaming rights in deals with college conferences, Major League Baseball, the NFL and the NHL. They are expected to be a major part of this summer’s negotiations with the NBA as well.

“I’m confident we’re going to see eye-to-eye on how to prioritize streaming,” Pitaro told Bloomberg of what he anticipates in trying to extend that broadcast contract.

Any decision Disney makes about the future of ESPN will be informed by the numbers. The network has lost 25 million subscribers in the last decade and ESPN+ about $400 million during the last fiscal year according to Wells Fargo analyst Steven Cahall. While the company still has plenty of money, ESPN will be forced to stand on its own for the first time later this year when it becomes its own division of the Walt Disney Company, a move many speculate signals a coming spin-off.

1010 WINS Anchor Lee Harris Joining NewsNation

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After announcing he would exit 1010 WINS after serving as the station’s morning news anchor since 1995, the next destination for Lee Harris has been announced.

Harris is joining NewsNation as its new Director of Integrated Operations and will oversee the development and distribution of the network’s audio content.

“It took an incredible opportunity to convince me to leave 1010 WINS after nearly 30 years,” said Harris. “But Sean Compton and Michael Corn showed me that at NewsNation I will be helping to fundamentally change the way news is covered and presented in this country and this is an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.”

Harris has been with 1010 WINS for the past 31 years and has won an Edward R. Murrow Award for his work.

In addition to being responsible for the network’s audio division, the company says he will also contribute to its news writing efforts as well as its special programming.

“As we recently celebrated the milestone of becoming a 24-hour news network weekdays, we are continually looking for ways to grow the NewsNation brand across our linear and digital platforms,” said Nexstar’s President of Networks Sean Compton. “I am thrilled that Lee Harris is going to be leading these efforts as we further expand the network’s reach with viewers and listeners across the country.”

710 WOR News Director Joe Bartlett Retiring

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Joe Bartlett, the News Director of 710 WOR, has announced his retirement after serving as a full-time station air staff member for 37 years. His final day on-air will be on Wednesday, May 31st. Although Bartlett had considered retiring during the pandemic, he ultimately decided against it until now.

Throughout his time at the station, Bartlett was involved in 11 talk shows and provided coverage on some of New York’s most noteworthy events, such as the September 11 attacks. He was also the host of the famous WOR Saturday Morning Show and, until his retirement, served as the anchor for Len Berman and Michael Riedel in the Morning.

“I loved my job and have been fortunate to have been part of this great station for all these years,” said Bartlett. “I could have gone on much longer, but the time had come when I just needed more free time. Sadly, this is not a job you can do only six months a year.”

Upon retiring, Joe eagerly anticipates having additional spare time to engage in his favorite pastime of golfing, visit his grandchildren, and cheer on his beloved football team, the NY Giants. In the interim, Bartlett has relocated to South Carolina with his wife.

“It’s rare in this business to encounter as versatile a radio personality as Joe: anchor, news director, and talk show host…not to mention an all-around nice guy,” said Tom Cuddy, 710 WOR Program Director. “He will be missed not just by our listeners but by our staff.”

Rupert Murdoch ‘Unsettled’ By Tucker Carlson’s Opinions on Ukrainian President

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According to a report released on Monday, Rupert Murdoch had a conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky a few weeks before Tucker Carlson was dismissed. During the call, they talked about the Ukraine War and the one-year anniversary of the deaths of Fox News journalists in Ukraine last March.

Semafor reported the call resembled the one Zelensky had with Lachlan Murdoch, the Executive Chair and CEO of Fox Corp., on March 15th, which Zelensky disclosed during a national broadcast.

The website said these discussions occurred shortly before Tucker Carlson was dismissed from his position at Fox. He had been vocal about the billions of U.S. taxpayer dollars that went toward supporting Ukraine. Fox executives had been made aware of objections from senior Ukrainian officials regarding Carlson’s coverage. Still, during the calls with the Murdochs, President Zelenskyy did not bring up the matter, as per a source familiar with the call details.

Carlson had previously referred to Zelensky as a “dictator.” The Washington Post stated that Rupert Murdoch was unsettled by Carlson’s position on Ukraine, particularly after a segment on Carlson’s show referred to Zelensky as a “Ukrainian pimp.”

In addition, Semafor reported that the editorial pages of The New York Post and The Wall Street Journal, seen as Murdoch family spokespersons, have regularly criticized Republicans who oppose the war. The Wall Street Journal’s editorial board labeled DeSantis’s characterization of the war as his “first mistake.”

As per the report, “more moderate pro-Ukraine members of the Republican caucus,” such as Sen. Mitt Romney (R-UT) and House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul (R-TX), have expressed their relief over Carlson’s departure. The report stated they are pleased that the loudest voice against U.S. support for Ukraine will be reduced now.

A senior congressional aide from the Republican Party told Semafor that Carlson had made several members apprehensive, leading them to withhold their full support towards Ukraine. They added that Carlson’s exit could diminish the most vigorous opposition to U.S. support for Ukraine.

Fox News Correspondent Benjamin Hall Returns to Work After Ukraine War Injury

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Benjamin Hall, a Fox News correspondent, received a warm welcome on Monday when he returned to work at the State Department briefing room after a remarkable recovery from a catastrophic injury sustained covering the Russian attacks on Ukraine. The events followed an emotional return to the White House Correspondents’ Dinner this weekend. 

Hall spoke to Martha MacCallum about the emotional journey of his recovery, revealing that he had to find something to fight for in the wake of his injuries. He was determined to return to his previous work and life, and returning to the briefing room was a testament to his tenacity.

“For me, it was about getting back to work; it was about getting back to things I was doing before. So today, back at the State Department, it felt like that; it was about returning,” he said. “The State Department was so helpful to get me out of Ukraine and back to the U.S. It was a warm welcome today. Of course, I also got to interview Secretary Blinken today, which certainly was very interesting.”

Vedant Patel, the principal deputy spokesperson of the State Department, initiated the round of applause upon Hall’s arrival, which the journalists quickly joined in attendance. According to Fox News, Hall was severely injured when a missile hit the vehicle he was traveling in during the initial phase of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in March 2022. 

Although Hall survived the attack, Fox News photojournalist Pierre Zakrzewski and Ukrainian journalist Oleksandra “Sasha” Kuvshynova lost their lives. Hall underwent approximately 30 surgeries and suffered permanent disabilities, including the loss of a leg and foot on opposite sides and the loss of function in one hand and an eye.

“It was quite emotional today. One of the things you go through when you have some of the injuries like I had you had to hold something up ahead of you. What were you fighting for? Where do you want to get back to?” Hall added. 

Hall interviewed Secretary of State Antony Blinken on his role in the Hunter Biden disinformation letter. 

Ben Shapiro: White House Correspondents Dinner Highlights Disconnect Between Citizens and Media

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Ben Shapiro, the co-founder of The Daily Wire, criticized the White House Correspondents’ Dinner via a series of tweets on Monday. He pointed out the dangers of the media becoming too comfortable with Washington politicians.

The dinner, which took place on Saturday, was attended by various media executives and personalities from major outlets such as MSNBC, CNN, Fox News, Newsmax, and The Washington Post, among others.

Shapiro believes that the WHCD is a clear example of why Americans feel disconnected from the Washington DC elite class, who are supposed to serve as checks and balances on one another but are part of the same group.

“The WHCD is perhaps the best example of why Americans feel alienated by the Washington DC elite class – all of whom are supposed to be checks and balances on one another, but are actually all part of the same blob,” Shapiro wrote in a Twitter thread.

The event was graced by political figures from the Republican and Democratic parties, including President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, alongside notable personalities from different fields, such as Hollywood actress Chrissy Teigen and Brittany Griner, a WNBA star who had previously been imprisoned in Russia.

“‘Hey look, it’s Joe Biden openly joking about the fact that he takes no questions – and the press are laughing uproariously as they give an award to a ‘journalist’ who writes sop pieces about him!'” Shapiro added.

During the dinner, President Biden joked about Fox News resolving its defamation lawsuit with Dominion Voting Systems and the departure of Tucker Carlson. The Aldo Beckman Award for Overall Excellence in White House Coverage was presented to Washington Post journalist Matt Viser for reporting Biden’s religious beliefs.

Could Tucker Carlson Be The Next Ronald Reagan?

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In the present tumultuous political climate of America, there is a dire need for leaders of the caliber of Tucker Carlson. Given the widespread prevalence of media censorship and disingenuousness, it may be prudent for Carlson to pivot from his career in media and pursue a presidential campaign.

His potential to significantly impact American politics simply cannot be overlooked if he decides to run for office. Moreover, it is worth recalling that President Ronald Reagan, a former entertainment personality, successfully transitioned to politics and thrived in his presidency.

Carlson’s deep commitment to traditional conservative values such as limited government, individual freedom, and free markets, along with his unique ability to challenge the status quo, make him a strong contender for the presidency. In these trying times, America needs a leader willing to stand up for what’s right, and Carlson has demonstrated that he is that leader.

Notably, both Reagan and Carlson have built a populist following and have successfully connected with working-class Americans. They have both been outspoken in their criticism of the political establishment and have been champions for the concerns of ordinary Americans against the interests of the elites. With such similarities, it’s no surprise that Carlson’s potential presidential bid has generated significant excitement among conservative voters.

There are several compelling reasons why Tucker Carlson should consider a serious presidential run. His background in media, unique political viewpoints, and deep commitment to traditional conservative values could position him as a formidable presidential candidate. Carlson’s clear stances on immigration and trade align closely with the working-class population. His willingness to challenge conventional foreign policies could provide a significant advantage in a presidential race.

If Carlson chose to enter the political arena, he would bring fresh perspectives to the stagnant Washington establishment. Carlson has a history of questioning the status quo and highlighting issues mainstream politicians ignore on both sides of the aisle. His capacity to scrutinize those in power and challenge the establishment could help restore trust in the U.S. Constitution.

Moreover, his outsider status could be an asset in a political system often dominated by career politicians. The decision of Tucker Carlson to step away from the media industry and enter politics could be the change that many Americans are demanding from their leaders.

Carlson’s extensive experience as a media personality has honed his exceptional communication skills, making him an ideal messenger for his message. In contrast, President Joe Biden has faced criticism for his poor communication skills and reluctance to engage in impromptu press interactions.

Carlson’s background in delivering monologues on his show, covering a broad range of topics, has undoubtedly prepared him well for the rigors of the campaign trail. His ability to express his views with clarity and precision would set him apart on the national stage.

Many blue-collar Americans believe the present political system fails to address their concerns adequately. Carlson has a tremendous opportunity to gain a substantial following by tapping into this sentiment and potentially launching a robust presidential campaign. His unwavering commitment to challenging the political establishment and advocating for the interests of everyday citizens renders him an exceptional candidate to represent this burgeoning segment of the electorate.

Tucker Carlson’s Twitter video has garnered remarkable attention, surpassing the viewership of his previous primetime show. Carlson has garnered a significant following among Americans who feel marginalized or ignored in today’s political landscape, thanks to his ability to tackle controversial issues and question established norms.

Carlson’s audacity in confronting powerful interests and established power structures could make him a formidable contender in a presidential race that seeks to shake things up and chart a new course for the country. He possesses the potential to attract a wide-ranging base of voters dissatisfied with the status quo, transcending partisan divides, and cultivating a fervent support base.

Undeniably, Carlson commands immense respect from conservative Americans, vigorously advocating for traditional conservative values such as limited government, individual freedom, and free markets. With Carlson at the helm, traditional values and priorities will be unequivocally represented in government, and the voices of conservatives will be resoundingly heard.

Should Tucker Carlson run for president and disengage from the media, he could substantially influence politics. Such a move would compel the press to accord him significant attention, potentially challenging established mainstream networks. With his esteemed standing and substantial impact, Carlson could affect fundamental changes in the political sphere by taking this crucial step. 

A Tucker Carlson presidency in the United States is an unpredictable but intriguing prospect. Carlson’s unique perspective could disrupt the status quo in unimaginable ways if elected. Despite the risks associated with selecting an unconventional figure, the potential benefits of having a president who defies the establishment and thinks outside the box are exhilarating.