Did 90210 Deliver For The CW?

90210 A Hit For The CW!

Three years ago, the CW network launched with a mix of left over series from the WB and UPN. While WB leftovers Smallville, Supernatural, and One Tree Hill held a steady audience, and shows like Gossip Girl (which debuted in 2007) generated buzz, the network had yet to have a breakout hit of it’s own. After 3 years and no big hits, there was talk the CW might not be around next year. Would the CW be able to be able to change it’s fortunes this season?

Did 90210 Deliver For The CW?

BY: JACK PEYTON
NEWS EDITOR

Thursday, September 4, 2008, 3:42 AM

Jennie Garth (Kelly Taylor) courtesy Justin Stephens/The CW Three years ago, the CW network launched with a mix of left over series from the WB and UPN. While WB leftovers Smallville, Supernatural, and One Tree Hill held a steady audience, and shows like Gossip Girl (which debuted in 2007) generated buzz, the network had yet to have a breakout hit of it’s own. After 3 years and no big hits, there was talk the CW might not be around next year. Would the CW be able to be able to change it’s fortunes this season?

On Monday night the season premiere of returning series One Tree Hill and Gossip Girl both performed well in the ratings, showing an increase over last season. Great news for the network, and smart planning on their end. Debuting some of their series a week earlier than the other networks.

On Tuesday night, one of the most anticipated new shows of the season would get its chance to make or break. The CW, desperate for a hit, needed this show to succeed. By Wednesday morning the network could breathe a sigh of relief. Fans were curious to see what the new 90210 would be like, and that curiosity payed off….4.9 million tuned in to the update of the 1990’s FOX drama.

Now 4.9 million viewers may seem like chump change to one of the big four networks (ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX) – but for The CW? Not so much. 90210 was the highest-rated debut episode of a scripted show on the three-year-old network. It also won the key 18-34 year demo for the night.

This is all great new for The CW – but the real question is can it not only maintain their audience, but improve on it? Only time will tell, but for now, congratulations.

jpeyton@tvsourcemagazine.com