Prime time

Prime time refers to the block of broadcast programming taking place during the middle of the evening for television programming. The term is often defined in terms of a fixed time period—for example, from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM (Eastern and Pacific Time) in the United States. Prime time is traditionally the most popular time for television viewership and is typically when networks schedule their most popular and high-budget programs.

History

The concept of prime time originated in the early days of television broadcasting. In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) played a significant role in shaping the prime time schedule. The Prime Time Access Rule (PTAR), introduced in 1970, was designed to encourage local programming and limit the amount of network programming during the early evening hours.

Prime Time in Different Countries

Prime time varies by country and is influenced by local customs and viewing habits.

United States

In the United States, prime time runs from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM Eastern and Pacific Time, and from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM Central and Mountain Time. Major networks such as ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox schedule their most popular shows during these hours.

United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, prime time typically runs from 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM. Major broadcasters like the BBC, ITV, and Channel 4 schedule their flagship programs during this period.

Japan

In Japan, prime time is known as "Golden Time" and runs from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Popular networks such as NHK, Nippon TV, and Fuji TV air their most-watched shows during these hours.

Programming

Prime time programming often includes a mix of drama, comedy, reality shows, and news. Networks invest heavily in prime time shows to attract the largest possible audience and maximize advertising revenue.

Drama

Prime time dramas are often serialized and include popular genres such as crime drama, medical drama, and legal drama. Examples include Grey's Anatomy, Law & Order, and NCIS.

Comedy

Prime time comedies, or sitcoms, are designed to appeal to a broad audience. Notable examples include Friends, The Big Bang Theory, and Modern Family.

Reality Shows

Reality shows have become a staple of prime time programming. Popular reality shows include Survivor, The Bachelor, and The Voice.

News

Prime time news programs provide in-depth coverage of current events. Examples include 60 Minutes and Dateline NBC.

Advertising

Prime time is the most lucrative time for television advertising. Advertisers pay premium rates to air commercials during prime time due to the high viewership. The cost of a 30-second commercial can vary significantly depending on the popularity of the program.

See Also

• Television broadcasting
• Dayparting
• Television network
• Television show
• Television ratings