ITV

Tag: TV ratings

  • India vs Pakistan clash smashes TV records with 20.6 crore viewers

    India vs Pakistan clash smashes TV records with 20.6 crore viewers

    MUMBAI: There are rivalries, and then there’s this-India vs Pakistan, a battle that grips the subcontinent tighter than a Virat Kohli cover drive. The latest chapter of this age-old sporting saga was played out in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, and, surprise, surprise-it shattered television records! JioStar, the broadcaster with a flair for the dramatic, powered the showdown to an eye-watering 20.6 crore TV viewers, making it the second most-watched cricket match in BARC history outside of World Cup games.

    For a match hyped as The Greatest Rivalry by Star Sports since 2021, it sure lived up to its billing. The 23 February contest in Dubai even outperformed the high-stakes India-Pakistan face-off during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 in Ahmedabad, registering an 11 per cent higher TV rating (TVR). With a staggering 2609 crore minutes of TV watch-time logged, it was clear that cricket lovers weren’t just watching-they were glued to their screens as if their remotes had vanished into the couch abyss.

    A JioStar – sports spokesperson, basking in the afterglow of this mammoth success, summed it up, “JioStar is scaling new heights as far as India’s experience of marquee sporting events is concerned. Combining the power of deep consumer focus, immersive storytelling, universalised access and incisive marketing, Star Sports has galvanised the interest in this age-old rivalry. We remain committed to serving fans, deepening fandom and recruiting new cohorts.”

    And if the cricket wasn’t drama enough, the internet exploded when cameras panned to an iconic duo in the stands—former Indian captain MS Dhoni and Indian cinema’s very own Sunny Deol, casually enjoying the match. Because, honestly, what’s an Indo-Pak clash without some cinematic flair? Memes were minted, tweets were fired, and even those who had no idea about the match were suddenly very invested.

    But JioStar didn’t just rely on the match to pull in viewers—it went full throttle with a pre-game content blitz. Star Sports rolled out an engaging line-up of shows, including Thank You Pakistan…Jeetega Hindustan, featuring cricketing legends Navjot Singh Sidhu, Yuvraj Singh, Shahid Afridi, and Inzamam-Ul-Haq. Meanwhile, Follow the Blues documented India’s meticulous preparations, ensuring fans were as hyped as an IPL auctioneer on caffeine. The build-up reached fever pitch on match day, kicking off with Dil Se India at 8:00 am, setting the stage for the epic clash.

    Not to be left out, Oaksmith Cricket Live, Star Sports’ live pre, mid, and post-match show, also enjoyed its moment in the spotlight, drawing in 2.2 crore viewers who tuned in for expert analysis, insights, and, presumably, the occasional hyperbolic cricket metaphor.

    And just when you thought the drama was over, the action is far from done. With Team India still undefeated, the Men in Blue are now set to take on New Zealand in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 final on 9 March. With another shot at glory on the line, will India lift another ICC trophy, following their T20 World Cup 2024 triumph? Fans will find out soon enough when coverage kicks off at 8:00 am across the JioStar network.

    Cancel those morning meetings, fake a cough, and restock on beers-cricket fever is about to hit like a Jasprit Bumrah yorker at 150 km/h.

  • Jessica Holscott takes charge at Nielsen as chief financial officer

    Jessica Holscott takes charge at Nielsen as chief financial officer

    MUMBAI: Jessica Holscott is no stranger to high-stakes financial strategy. From helming finance at Warner Media to steering the ship at Spotter, she has danced with industry giants-and now, she’s stepping into the spotlight at Nielsen.

    Effective today, Holscott assumes the role of chief financial officer (CFO) for the global audience measurement leader, bringing a razor-sharp financial acumen and an eye for innovation. She will report directly to Nielsen’s chief executive officer Karthik Rao.

    As CFO, Holscott will oversee Nielsen’s financial landscape worldwide, covering financial planning and analysis, tax, controllership, internal audit, and treasury. It’s a tall order, but for someone with Holscott’s pedigree, it’s just another day at the office.

    “Jessica is a proven, world-class financial leader and we are fortunate to have her join Nielsen at such an important time,” said Rao. “Within the past year, we have introduced several groundbreaking products for our clients as we continue to be the leader in TV measurement and streaming TV data. As we continue to innovate and add even more advanced ad tech offerings to our suite, Jessica’s strategic vision and experience will be key for our evolution.”

    Holscott brings over 20 years of financial expertise spanning multiple industries. Most recently, she served as CFO at Spotter, a creator-focused company. Before that, she led financial strategy as CFO and EVP for Warner Media, where she played a pivotal role in steering the finances of Warner Bros., HBO, and the Turner Networks. She also held CFO and EVP roles at HBO, demonstrating her ability to navigate complex financial landscapes. Her past experience includes leading Investor Relations at Time Warner and Aptiv (Delphi), and she cut her teeth at General Electric, where she climbed the ranks from corporate audit to Chief of Staff for the Vice Chairman and CFO.

    “I am honoured to join Nielsen as CFO at such a transformational time for the company and industry. Nielsen continues to raise the bar when it comes to innovation and I’m thrilled to work alongside Karthik and my fellow leaders to keep the momentum going as the leader in audience measurement,” said Holscott.

    Nielsen kicks off the year with its signature drive for innovation and modernisation. The company recently secured accreditation for its big data + panel measurement and out-of-home (OOH) expansion, following the accreditation of its first-party live streaming solution in November 2024. As the trusted industry leader in audience measurement, Nielsen’s ratings and rankings-spanning linear TV, the Nielsen Streaming Top 10, and The Gauge-remain the gold standard in the television and advertising space.

    With Holscott at the financial helm, Nielsen is poised to accelerate its evolution in data analytics and audience measurement.

  • JioStar breaks viewership records with Tata WPL’s historic opening

    JioStar breaks viewership records with Tata WPL’s historic opening

    MUMBAI: The Tata Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025 has made a thunderous start, smashing viewership records on JioStar. With cricket fans tuning in across platforms, the opening match between Gujarat Giants and Royal Challengers Bangalore became the most-watched league stage match ever on television.

    As the second leg of #WPL2025 kicks off in Bengaluru, BCCI secretary Jay Shah took to social media to celebrate the tournament’s historic viewership figures. In a tweet, he revealed, “the Opening match was watched by over 3 crore viewers on TV, making it the most-watched league stage match ever. TV ratings on @StarSportsIndia surged 150 per cent, while digital viewership on @JioHotstar climbed 70 per cent compared to last season. Witnessing records being shattered is truly inspiring,” he remarked.

    The numbers speak for themselves—TV ratings for the opening game skyrocketed by 73 per cent compared to last year, proving that women’s cricket is no longer a side event but a main attraction. Meanwhile, connected TV (CTV) saw an astonishing 102 per cent surge in reach, with average concurrency doubling till match five. Digital streaming reach also grew by 10 per cent, cementing JioStar’s dominance as the go-to platform for live sports.

    With digital consumption at an all-time high, the Tata WPL’s explosive growth on JioStar signals a shift in how audiences engage with cricket. The numbers highlight a clear trend—sports streaming is the future, and JioStar is at the forefront of this revolution.

    As Tata WPL 2025 continues its action-packed season, fans and brands alike have a golden opportunity to be part of this cricketing evolution. The landscape of women’s cricket is changing, and JioStar is leading the charge.

  • Network18 makes headlines again: The unrivalled king of Indian news

    Network18 makes headlines again: The unrivalled king of Indian news

    MUMBAI: Network18 just dropped a truth bomb on the front page of The Economic Times, and it’s impossible to ignore. The media giant flexed its leadership in the Indian news ecosystem with a striking ad, leaving no doubt about who rules the ratings.

    With an unbeatable track record, Network18 continues to be the go-to source for news, clocking the highest overall TV reach (1,78,957 Average Reach000s)—yes, even surpassing the leading general entertainment channel! (Source: BARC | Metric: Average Reach000s | TG: 15+ | Period: Wk 53’24 – 03’25 | Market: All India). If that’s not enough, it also secured the top spot in average minute audience (AMA) with 2,04,029 AMA 000s. (Source: BARC | Metric: AMA 000s, TG:15+ | Period: Wk 03’25, Market: All India, News channel networks). Oh, and let’s not forget the 20 channels broadcasting in a record 12 languages—talk about news for everyone, everywhere!

    Network18 has been setting records and taking names. The network boasts an incredible lineup of leading channels that dominate every news segment:

    . CNN-News18: The reigning number one English news channel since BARC ratings resumed more than two years ago.

    .  News18 India: The undisputed king of Hindi news for two consecutive years.

    .  CNBC-TV18: The heavyweight champion of English business news, maintaining an iron grip on viewership.

    Not content with just television dominance, Network18 has been making waves in the digital space too:

    . Moneycontrol: More than 100 million unique visitors and a staggering 1 million paid subscribers on Moneycontrol Pro—a financial powerhouse like no other.

    . Firstpost: With 6.8 million YouTube subscribers, it’s the fastest-growing Indian news platform on the video giant.

    And in the regional markets? You guessed it—News18 channels are leading the pack, cementing Network18’s dominance across India’s linguistic and cultural landscape.

    With record-breaking viewership, it’s no surprise that Network18 is the preferred news network for advertisers (Source: TAM Adex | Period: FY 24-25 till 17 Jan | All genre). Whether it’s business, politics, or entertainment, Network18 delivers credibility, reach, and engagement like no other.

     

  • Vijay TV’s Pongal lineup breaks records with stellar viewership

    Vijay TV’s Pongal lineup breaks records with stellar viewership

    MUMBAI: Festive entertainment doesn’t get better than this. Vijay TV delivered a Pongal lineup for the ages, smashing viewership records and proving once again why it reigns supreme as Tamil Nadu’s leading satellite channel. From blockbuster premieres to its iconic reality shows, the channel left no stone unturned in ensuring that audiences had a Pongal to remember.

    Vijay TV’s Pongal offerings were anchored by the sensational world television premiere of Amaran, starring Sivakarthikeyan and Sai Pallavi. This biographical action-drama captivated audiences with an impressive 8.5 TVR, reaching a jaw-dropping two crore viewers and generating 1.2 billion minutes of watch time.

    Joining the fray, the nostalgic family drama Meiazhagan, featuring Karthi and Arvind Swamy, became another viewer favourite. With a heartfelt storyline, the movie garnered a stellar 7.4 TVR, cementing its place in Tamil Nadu’s festive tradition.

    The Pongal movie lineup didn’t stop there. Vijay TV also premiered Vaazhai and the supernatural thriller Aranmanai 4, further bolstering its reputation for curating cinematic spectacles.

    Vijay TV’s ability to merge cinematic brilliance with its signature reality shows, mega-serials, and game shows continues to set it apart from competitors. This Pongal, the channel didn’t just entertain—it dominated.

    From securing high-profile premieres to delivering diverse content, Vijay TV consistently raises the bar for festive entertainment. As it continues to push boundaries and set new industry benchmarks, audiences know where to tune in for premium entertainment during Tamil Nadu’s most cherished occasions.

    This year’s Pongal programming wasn’t just about numbers; it was about creating shared moments of joy across households. With record-breaking ratings, overwhelming audience appreciation, and unforgettable stories, Vijay TV ensured that Pongal 2025 was a cinematic celebration like no other.

  • KBC viewership soars to 24 per cent in week four

    KBC viewership soars to 24 per cent in week four

    Mumbai: Kaun Banega Crorepati, in its 16th season, continues to solidify its position. As per BARC data, the viewership of its original airings soared by 24 per cent (16 GRPs to 20 GRPs) in its fourth week and the non-fiction show registered a growth of 18 per cent, averaging 1.1 TVR in week 36.

    Its recent Olympics-special episode featuring Manu Bhaker, who took the hot seat with bronze-medallist Aman Sehrawat rated 1.3 TVR. The heartwarming episode featuring Banti Vadiva, from an Adivasi community of Asadi, in Madhya Pradesh, drew an overwhelming response, reflected in its rating of 1.3 TVR, capturing the hearts of millions of viewers.

    Throughout the season, the program pays tribute to an array of exceptional individuals, from global champions who bring glory to India like Manu Bhaker and Aman Sehrawat to selfless healthcare pioneers like doctors Ajay and Rani Bang, who have transformed lives through their tireless dedication in remote areas.

    Data source: BARC HSM Urban 15+ (week 33 to week 36, 2024).

  • News18 Rajasthan claims pole position in news category with 39 mn YouTube views

    News18 Rajasthan claims pole position in news category with 39 mn YouTube views

    Mumbai: According to Crowdtangle, Tubebuddy, and SocialBlade, News18 Rajasthan has surpassed all other news brands in the digital media landscape with 39 million YouTube views.

    Network18, has been leading on the digital front with 200 million digital unique viewers per month. In India, two out of every five internet users access Network18’s digital platforms for original programming. The reason for this achievement has been the viewers’ consumption habits.

    News18 Rajasthan stated that they have experienced exceptional growth online as a consequence of its smart programming and real-time delivery of current events.

    The fact that market share is consistently growing across segments is evidence of how well News18 Rajasthan’s offering of news, insights, and analysis has connected with viewers.

    The channel has helped establish new benchmarks in the news broadcasting industry, and the channel’s most recent achievement demonstrates how the audience prefers News18 Rajasthan for information on key subjects, without any bias and ensuring coverage of all points of views.

  • Barc Wk 36: News18 India acquires 14.1% market share

    Barc Wk 36: News18 India acquires 14.1% market share

    Mumbai: News18 India continues to be the industry leader in the Hindi television news space. As per Barc data of week 33 of 2022, News18 India has garnered a 14.1 per cent market share, which is more than the combined market share of ABP and Zee News.

    As per Barc data, Aaj Tak has acquired 11.8 per cent of the market. Whereas, TV9 Bharatvarsh is at number three and India TV at number four, with 11.5 per cent and 11.0 per cent market share, respectively.

    Both Zee News and ABP have garnered a market share of 6.5 per cent.

    Ever since the Barc ratings resumed in March this year, News18 India has been steadily climbing the viewership charts.

    The channel has been in the number one position for two months now.

    As per the Barc data for week 36, News18 India reached 9.27 crore viewers, as compared to AajTak’s 7.82 crore viewers.

    Even on digital, the brand is garnering solid traction, with its views across YouTube and other social media platforms increasing steadily.

    News18 India has been heavily investing in technology and editorial resources to ensure that its content and presentation remain differentiated and far ahead of the competition.

    In Prime Time on weekdays (Wk 36’22, 1800–2400 hrs, TG: 15+, HSM), News18 India is ranked number one in all individual hourly time-bands.

    Additionally, News18 India has retained its number one position during 9–10 p.m., the most prestigious time band in the Hindi news genre, where News18 India’s Kishore Ajwani is ahead of India TV’s Rajat Sharma and Aajtak’s Sudhir Chaudhary.

    In week 36’22, 2100-2200 hrs, TG: 15+, HSM, News18 India is leading with a 15.8 per cent share, which is 27 per cent higher than AajTak.

  • CNN-News18 leads English general news genre with 26.3% market share: Barc

    CNN-News18 leads English general news genre with 26.3% market share: Barc

    Mumbai: CNN-News18 has garnered 26.3 per cent market share in the English general news genre becoming the leading English news channel, as per Broadcast Audience Research Council (Barc) data.

    The channel garnered 40.2 per cent viewership share in the prime-time segment (2+ | Monday to Friday | 1800—2300 hrs) compared to competitors that trailed behind at 25 per cent and 20.2 per cent viewership share.

    “The channel’s viewership has gained viewership steadily because of the added focus on programming, along with broad-basing content to all geographies across the country,” said the statement.

    “I want to thank our viewers who have reposed immense faith in CNN News18’s programming and in our journalism,” said CNN-News18 managing editor Zakka Jacob. “We have always believed in keeping it classy, that you don’t have to shout from the rooftops. That is reflected in our choice of stories and programming formats. CNN-News18 has to be the youngest newsroom in the country. We are reflective of a new, young India which is not shy of asserting itself. We are a young and dynamic team, and we are just getting started.”

    “The channel has managed to clinch the top position with its philosophy of bringing news which is rational and thought-provoking without any jingoism,” said Network18 Group CEO – business news Smriti Mehra. “A slew of new shows launched such as ‘Bits To Billion – The Unicorn Story’ focusing on the inspirational stories of the Unicorns, ‘Plain Speak’ which brings out the hard facts of the most talked-about news story and ‘A Billion New Ideas’ highlighting the power of the Ideas, Innovations and Intentions have put the channel firmly at the top.”

    (Source: Barc India – All India | Urban+Rural | AB 15+ segment | Week 14-17’22).

  • Sun TV becomes most-watched channel in week 14: Barc

    Sun TV becomes most-watched channel in week 14: Barc

    Mumbai: Sun TV displaced Star Utsav to become the most-watched channel with 2462.15 AMA in week 14 (2 April to 8 April) according to data released by Broadcast Audience Research Council (Barc).

    Star Maa and Star Sports 1 Hindi were at second and third spots, with 2436.38 and 2354.46 respectively.

    Star Plus, Dangal, Sony SAB, Star Vijay, Star Pravah, Zee Kannada, and Colors followed.

    The mega cities and South markets were ruled by Sun TV at 434.64 and 2455.56 AMA, respectively.

    It was followed by Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Plus, Sony SAB and Sony Vijay in the mega cities. The South market had Star Maa, Star Vijay, Zee Kannda and Zee Telugu in the remaining four positions.

    Among the regional markets, Maharashtra/Goa was led by Star Pravah at 1465.01 (‘000s), West Bengal by Star Jalsha at 1123.02, Odisha by Tarang (465.05), Karnataka by Zee Kannada (1349.6), Rajasthan and UP/Uttarakhand by Dangal at 159.45 and 456.67 respectively.