The quarantine issued in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has led to a sizeable increase in live TV ratings.
According to Deadline, television networks have seen a massive spike in ratings since last week, when the spread of the disease led to a massive response from government bodies. Schools, places of business and other workspaces began shutting down in order to help curb the spread of the disease and people in general began practicing "social distancing" in order to avoid further infection.
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There is a clear correlation between the rise in ratings and the fact that the general populace has been spending more time indoors. NBC's The Voice saw a massive 38% jump among viewers in the 18-49 age demographic on Monday night, while another NBC competition show Ellen's Game of Games jumped 44% on Tuesday night. The CBS sitcom Bob Hearts Abishola and legal drama Bull also posted season highs for both shows on Monday. The children's channel Nickelodeon has seen a 16% rise among the 2-11 age demographic since last Friday.
Broadcast networks are in serious need of the high ratings. With multiple sports leagues cancelling their seasons and with production being shut down on shows across the country, television networks are facing serious loses in the face of the pandemic. Current competition continues to be streaming services, which have also seen a rise in viewings.
Ratings experts speculate that the increase will continue to grow as long as the quarantine and restrictions over the disease remain active.