Television ratings often leave fans puzzled. Some shows that receive glowing reviews and impressive IMDb scores fail to perform well in TRP charts. Meanwhile, several average shows consistently pull in massive viewership numbers. This surprising trend has a lot to do with audience behaviour and industry patterns.
Audience Loyalty Lies With Channels, Not Shows or Stars
One major reason for this is the loyalty of traditional TV viewers. Unlike social media audiences who actively follow specific stars or content, the silent majority that drives TRP tends to be channel loyal. Many viewers instinctively believe that if a show airs on Star Plus, it must be worth watching. This mindset gives Star Plus an upper hand, helping its shows dominate TRP charts week after week.
This channel loyalty is deeply rooted in habits formed over the years. Viewers who have enjoyed successful Star Plus shows in the past often trust the channel’s content lineup. As a result, even an average show on Star Plus may get higher initial viewership simply because people expect quality from the channel. Conversely, shows on Zee TV, Colors TV, Sony TV, and SAB TV often struggle to match Star Plus’ consistent dominance, even when they offer excellent content.
The Role of Time Slots and Scheduling
Time slots play a critical role in determining a show’s success. Shows that air during prime-time slots, typically between 8 PM to 10:30 PM, have a much better chance of attracting viewers. These hours are when families are most likely to gather in front of the television, ensuring higher viewership.
Even a brilliant show with great performances and gripping storytelling can struggle if placed in an odd time slot. For example, a high-quality Sony TV drama airing at 11 PM may go unnoticed, while a moderately entertaining Star Plus show airing at 8 PM might easily climb the TRP charts.
Additionally, lead-in and lead-out shows matter too. If a Star Plus show follows a popular serial with a massive audience, viewers are more likely to stay tuned. This strategy helps maintain viewership across multiple programs, giving Star Plus a significant advantage.
Star Power vs. Content Quality
While casting popular actors can boost initial curiosity, it doesn’t always guarantee sustained success. Some shows focus heavily on star power, assuming that familiar faces will automatically attract viewers. However, if the storyline fails to engage the audience, even a strong cast can’t save the show in the long run.
In contrast, shows with lesser-known actors can succeed if they offer strong scripts, relatable characters, and consistent entertainment. However, these shows often struggle to reach their potential if they air on less dominant channels like Zee TV or Sony TV, where the general audience may not expect hit content.
Social Media Hype Doesn’t Always Translate to TRP
Many shows gain massive popularity on social media, with fans creating buzz, sharing clips, and posting rave reviews. Yet this online excitement often doesn’t translate into TRP success. The active social media crowd is often distinct from the silent majority that actually tunes in and drives TRP.
This silent audience — often made up of homemakers, elderly viewers, and those who follow TV as part of their routine — rarely participates in online discussions. They tend to stick to familiar channels and time slots, relying on their instincts rather than social media recommendations.
The Perfect Recipe for Success
A show’s success depends on multiple factors — the channel, time slot, storyline, and star cast all play a role. While quality content is essential, it’s often the strategic placement and channel influence that determine TRP’s success.
Star Plus, with its strong reputation, benefits from audience trust and better time slots. However, even its shows can fail if they are scheduled poorly or if the content fails to connect with viewers. Meanwhile, outstanding shows from other channels may struggle simply because they lack the advantage of audience loyalty.
In the end, the unpredictable nature of TV ratings proves that there’s no guaranteed formula for success. While great content remains important, understanding the habits of traditional TV audiences is crucial for predicting which shows will thrive on the TRP charts.
