Fans in Glasgow, Scotland, were treated to a spectacular weekend with the Clash at the Castle Premium Live Event on June 15. But the excitement began a day earlier with the June 14 edition of “WWE SmackDown,” the final stop before the big event. European fans had the rare opportunity to watch the show live in a prime-time TV slot, while viewers in the United States had to wait a few hours for the episode to air on tape delay. The big question: how many fans in the US tuned in to catch the action?
Viewership Numbers
According to “Wrestlenomics,” the June 14 edition of “SmackDown” averaged 1,959,000 viewers, marking an 11% decrease from the previous week’s 2,207,000. This dip in viewership is significant as it represents the first time in 2024 that the show has fallen below the two million viewer mark. The average viewership is the lowest since the “Absolute Best of 2023” special aired on December 29, and it’s the first time a regular episode of the blue brand, airing at its usual time on FOX, has dipped below two million viewers since August 2022.
Key Demographic Ratings
In the key 18-49 demographic, the show earned a 0.52 rating, a 15% decrease from the previous week’s 0.61. This number is also the lowest in that demographic since the December 29 compilation show. The drop in ratings reflects a challenging night for WWE, as the show faced stiff competition.
Competitive Landscape
WWE SmackDown went head-to-head with the NBA Finals on Friday night, a formidable opponent in terms of viewership. The countdown to game four of the NBA Finals earned a 0.75 rating in the 18-49 demographic, while the game itself, featuring the Boston Celtics and the Dallas Mavericks, garnered a 2.86 rating. The intense competition undoubtedly impacted WWE’s numbers.
Analysis and Future Outlook
The decline in viewership and ratings is a notable event, especially considering WWE’s recent streak of strong performances. The dip below the two million viewer mark for the first time in 2024 could be attributed to several factors, including the tape delay for US audiences and the formidable competition from the NBA Finals.
WWE’s decision to tape the show for US audiences, rather than airing it live, may have influenced the drop in viewership. Fans often prefer live broadcasts to avoid spoilers and enjoy the immediacy of live television. This factor, combined with the high-profile NBA Finals, created a perfect storm for a drop in ratings.
Despite the dip, WWE remains a dominant force in sports entertainment. The company continues to deliver engaging storylines and high-energy performances that captivate audiences worldwide. The competition with major sporting events is a recurring challenge, but WWE’s ability to bounce back has been proven time and again.
Looking forward, WWE will need to strategize on maintaining and growing their viewership amidst such competition. Innovative storytelling, surprise returns, and high-stakes matches could be key in drawing viewers back. Additionally, leveraging social media and digital platforms to build anticipation and engagement could help bridge the gap during such competitive nights.
Stephen’s Insight
While the drop in ratings is notable, it’s essential to recognize the context. The NBA Finals are a significant draw, and competition with such events is an expected challenge for WWE. The fact that WWE SmackDown still maintained a strong viewer base amidst this competition speaks to the brand’s resilience and loyal fan base.
