Roush on Pirate Master, 48 Hours Mystery and Mark Burnett
Question: I realize that
Pirate Master was not the greatest show in the world, but I liked it, and, according to the message boards, so did other people. Personalities were coming out, twists were being added, and there were only five episodes left when CBS decided to pull it. Are they really generating more money by airing repeats of
48 Hours? They already invested the time and money in filming, editing, etc, so why pull it? The announcement included a line about the final shows being streamed on the website at 3 in the morning. Oh gee, thanks, CBS, I'm so freakin' grateful. The networks wonder why people are turning to cable channels: Well, one answer is the cablers' loyalty to their viewers. CBS doesn't have that much to offer as it is, so maybe it should quit ticking off its viewers.
— Cynthia
Matt Roush: In another summer, I'd probably agree. But this summer, things are so competitive and so crowded on network and cable that I'm not really surprised when a network pulls a flop off the air, even during a time of year when you'd think they'd just let it ride out. I can't explain the logic of this move, since CBS already let the show play on so long after it was already a clear loser. But when it bottomed out after moving to a new time period, I guess CBS just decided it was time to cut its losses. Not really such a tragedy, all things considered, although I understand the frustration. But to me, I think reality shows deserve to operate on the same playing field as sitcoms and dramas. Not working? Cancel it. And while those presently ill-equipped to watch streaming video are mad at the injustice (I've heard from quite a few), at least this show will play to its end
somewhere, and those who care can eventually learn who wins. But really, don't you bet
Mark Burnett now wishes he'd scouted around for another twist on the
Rock Star franchise this summer, rather than going this route. (Not to mention the even worse
On the Lot, which I guess by virtue of being done live, and involving
Steven Spielberg, has too much at stake to be pulled before it's over.)
