Throwback Thursday: Jump Into Our TV Time Machine!
Carissa Pavlica
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Tom Brokaw said TV is a fickle business.
I beg to differ. In our inaugural Throwback Thursday post, we're taking a look back at TV in April 1995 – 20 years ago – and there are many surprises, the first of which is how relevant those in the business back then remain today.
Some of the biggest stars of yesterday are not only still working, but are still at the top. Who would have guessed they could ride the wave so long?
The second is those ratings. The numbers aren't in millions of viewers but the actual ratings share of that coveted 18-49 demographic. You might faint. Grab a fan, take a seat and plunge in!
The date we're examining is April 15th. It's important to note almost all of the shows you're looking at are repeats. Yes, repeat viewing did some bang up business back in the day.
Not appearing on the list are the news programs and movies of the week; good stuff like Primetime Live, 60 Minutes, 20/20, and showings of Thunder Alley (picked up a 12.6 share -- GET. OUT.) and Doc Hollywood (Go Michael J Fox!).
The world of ratings and TV viewing has certainly changed in some respects, but our eye for talent hasn't really changed all that much at all.
Carissa Pavlica is the managing editor and a staff writer and critic for TV Fanatic. She's a member of the Critic's Choice Association, enjoys mentoring writers, conversing with cats, and passionately discussing the nuances of television and film with anyone who will listen. Follow her on X and email her here at TV Fanatic.
