As would be expected with a series from David E. Kelley, “Harry’s Law” represents a very old-skewing addition to the NBC lineup. Though it could not muster a particularly impressive adults 18-49 rating in its Monday premiere, the show nonetheless delivered a very solid viewership total for the network.
The Kathy Bates-led legal series garnered a 2.1 rating with 11.04 million viewers in its premiere at 10PM, delivering a strong audience total for NBC. Analysts are correct that performance in the coveted adults 18-49 demographic often drives advertising spend, but NBC and its sponsors will still be reasonably happy with an audience that large, especially given the tendency for Kelley’s series to attract wealthy viewers.
Given the dependence on total viewers, the magnitude of breathing room “Harry’s Law” has for the typical post-premiere drop-off is unclear.
With its wide audience, “Harry’s Law” was able to narrowly edge CBS’ “Hawaii 5-0” among total viewers *(11.04 million to 10.61 million). Among young adults, however, “5-0” had the clear edge with a 2.9.
Earlier in the night, NBC featured “Chuck” (2.0 rating, 5.92 million) and “The Cape” (1.8 rating, 6.19 million).
We love Kathy Bates in this roll, however if the writers insist on having her spew things against conservatives and Rush Limbaugh, we will stop watching. Your decision……
Conservatives watch TV too. We Love Chuck and also The Cape, but we can take the series(Harry’s Law) off our DVR if we are continually insulted.
The diatribe involved may have fit the scenario but one has to buy into the judge smirking at the whole meltdown of his court. That leads one to believe the diatribe was more political and less theatrical. The show is likely to lose viewers and sponsors may hear the backlash.
Given the call to more civility by the President, the network and producers need to make a statement apologizing for the inflamatory rhetoric.