
Viewership may be on the decline for science-fiction shows on network television, but Syfy seems to be getting it right.
A month after recording its best October in history, Syfy followed with its best viewership ever recorded in November including new records for overall viewers, and key advertising demographics.
News like this is big for any cable channel as many outlets typically sit back and let networks have all the new programming for the fall. However, Syfy decided to take the networks head-on, scoring some big wins with its new show "Stargate: Universe" and the continuation of "Ghost Hunters."
As network president Dave Howe already teased in a recent interview with Forbes magazine, a lot of the current success comes from the rebranding of what was once the SciFi Channel to a name with roots right here at Airlock Alpha (as it was the site's former name), Syfy.
The current quarter, which began in October, has Syfy ranked as the fourth most-watched basic cable channel in key demographics including adults between the ages of 25 to 54 and No. 5 with adults 18 to 49. That has been helped by "Ghost Hunters," "Universe," "Sanctuary" and the new show "Ghost Hunters Academy," according to a release from Syfy.
"Universe," the third offering from the Stargate franchise, has even had the distinction so far in its young season to beat out network television on Friday night, including the now-cancelled "Dollhouse" on Fox.
And it should only get better from here. Although series offerings will be light heading toward the end of the year, "Universe" ends its fall season Dec. 4 at 9 p.m. ET, just in time for the Syfy event "Alice" to premiere Dec. 6 at 9 p.m. ET starring Kathy Bates, Caterina Scorsone, Matt Frewer and Harry Dean Stanton.
More original television will come Dec. 8 when the comedy "Outer Space Astronauts," a personal favorite of Syfy head of original programming Mark Stern, premieres at 9:30 p.m. ET. Then "Ghost Hunters" and "Ghost Hunters Academy" will close out their current seasons on Dec. 16 beginning at 9 p.m.
About the Author:
Michael Hinman is the founder and site coordinator for Airlock Alpha and the entire BlipNetwork. He owns Quantum Global Media Inc., the parent corporation of the BlipNetwork. He's a print journalist by day, and lives in Tampa, Fla.