Shaq in Baltimore: Seeking Phelps help in ratings
So Shaquille O'Neal is coming to Baltimore this weekend to take on Michael Phelps in his new sports reality show, "Shaq Vs.," and that's pretty big.
But what are the ratings like for the new series that pits the basketball star against other top athletes on their turf?
So far, those are not so big.
Tuesday's episode that pitted O'Neal against Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback Ben Roethlisberger finished third in its time period -- losing out to "America's Got Talent" (NBC) and "Big Brother" (CBS), while barely beating "More to Love" (Fox)
"America's Got Talent" had 11.6 million viewers, "Big Brother" 8.1 million, while "Shaq Vs." had an audience of 4.3 million. "More to Love" (Fox) had 4 million.
"Shaq Vs." tied for third with "More to Love" in the 18 to 49 year old demographic. That's better than other ABC series have been doing this summer, but that is not saying much.
So, maybe, Phelps can help the big guy out in the ratings where the Olympic swimmer has been known to do pretty well in such high-powered venues as "Saturday Night Live."
The swimming showdown between Shaq and Phelps tapes Sunday.
Comments
Z - I heard that this was no longer being filmed at the Meadowbrook but at some other location in Baltimore. Can you confirm that?
Hi Joe, I cannot. But I might have some information later today or tomorrow. So, please check back. Z
Posted by: Joe | August 21, 2009 3:11 PM
Filming will now take place at Loyola College's pool, not Meadowbrook. ABC decided on the change.
Hi Chris, Thanks. Z
Posted by: Chris | August 21, 2009 7:07 PM
Just saw Shaq filming at Brick Bodies downtown
Hi Bruno, Thanks. I am, hoping folks will post comments here throughout the weekend on their Shaq sightings and their experiences if they are in on any of the tapings. Thanks. Z
Posted by: Bruno Jham | August 21, 2009 11:24 PM