Friday’s SmackDown episode didn’t quite pack the punch WWE was hoping for, as it drew a total viewership of 1.893 million, down 5.25% from the previous week’s 1.998 million for the WrestleMania Backlash go-home show. Ouch!
To add salt to the wound, the show’s rating in the key 18-49 demographic also took a hit, dropping 13.04% from the previous week’s 0.46 rating to 0.40. That’s like getting a low blow from your favorite wrestler!
But wait, there’s more! SmackDown lost its crown in the key 18-49 demo, slipping to #2 on network TV. Talk about a tough night in the ring! At least they managed to hold on to the #1 spot in the 18-34 demo, but that’s not much consolation.
The NBA Playoffs game between the Grizzlies and the Warriors on ESPN stole the spotlight, dominating the night with a 2.09 key demo rating and 6.282 million viewers. Looks like WWE got pinned to the mat by some basketball action!
So, what’s the verdict? Friday’s SmackDown might have been a bit of a downer for WWE, but hey, there’s always next time to bounce back and deliver a slam dunk! Keep your chin up, WWE fans, the show must go on!
