In Defense of HBO’s Low Rating

I was reading an article that claimed HBO was receiving poor ratings. Additionally, numerous pro-Network  blogs and forums are using this as a slam against HBO.

First and foremost, apparently “The Wire” gets less than 1 million viewers per premiere showing. I don’t have any research on this, so I will take their word for it. However, I do know that these ratings do not include “on demand” views. I can’t remember the last time I watched an HBO or Showtime series when it wasn’t “on demand.” I would venture to say, it gets more “on demand” views than live premiere views. So, these numbers are skewed. In addition, HBO makes killings on DVD Box-sets!

Now, let’s just assume that the ratings, box set sales AND on-demand views were still low and not profitable! HBO produces amazing shows that I would classify as art (even including John from Cincinnati). These are amazing shows with amazing stories, characters, production qualities, etc., etc! And, isn’t that worth it enough. The fact they are making amazing art. Rome wasn’t profitable, but it was amazing art in storytelling and television history.

So, bloggers, shut up! HBO is in the business of making television art. If you don’t like it – then don’t watch it. Go watch the Flavor Flav sitcom or a re-run of M*A*S*H or whatever shit you watch! If you don’t like art – so suck a **** in a gutter you whore.