For Food Network,
adding to the stew
Network has pumped up primetime ratings with reality
By Kevin Downey Apr 24, 2008
With cable upfront presentations kicking off this month, Media Life will carry a series of network profiles with information important to media buyers and planners heading into negotiations. This is the 11th in the series. Previous articles can be found in the Cable Department.
In the early part of this decade, the Food Network happened on what might have seemed the least-likely show to connect with American viewers, "Iron Chef," imported from Japan, in Japanese.
But it turned out to be such a hit with foodies that the network began revamping its lineup, moving away from its staple of how-to shows like “Emeril Live” in favor of reality shows like “Iron Chef America” and “Food Network Challenge.”
Ratings soared, and that process continues, with yet more reality slotted for primetime and even fewer how-to shows. Even “Emeril" is being phased out.
Where Food Network needs help is in daytime, where its ratings are up far less than in primetime, and it's now moving to freshen up its daytime lineup with more cooking personalities like Giada De Laurentiis of “Everyday Italian” and Paula Deen of “Paula’s Home Cooking” to boost ratings.
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