Why doesn't GL simply move to The CW?

[Marc]

I know this topic probably already has a handful of other threads, but...

I don't see why CBS didn't simply shift GL over to The CW. CBS owns 50% of the network, so it wouldn't be a huge transition. And at the CW, no show has to bring in staggering ratings in order to be a hit. 1.6 would probably be decent over there. Plus they have no real daytime lineup anyway. Mostly syndicated sitcom reruns and court shows, probably largely chosen by affiliates. I'm sure one hour, between 12 and 4 in the afternoon could be reserved to make run for this one show. Might even be good for the network to pick up a historical show like this.

I read the P&G are looking to explore other options to circumvent CBS's cancellation, just seems like this would be the first avenue to consider.

[JackPeyton]

I could be wrong but i dont think the CW owns affiliate time other than 2 hours of primetime sunday-friday. if so, that would be the biggest reason as to why not.

furthermore the cw isnt exactly doing all that great, and they prob cant afford a daily soap like this.

also, the cw goes for a much younger audience.

[Amity]

GL doesn't target the CW's main audience, which is generally much younger than the soap world's viewers. GL would not have a chance on the CW.

[Eric83]

The CW owns 2 hours of programming from 3-5 in the afternoon. I think that GL could do good over there, I'm pretty sure the CW isn't worried about targeting that demographic all that much, if they can retain the same amount of viewers from CBS, that would be like a gold mine to them.

[Dan]

I believe part of it is that, simply, The CW can't afford it. And the fact that the show skews much older than what they are trying to reach.

[ReddFoxx]

CW definitely couldn't pay for that, a soap opera is a big thing to take on.

[CSF]

Aside from what it would cost the CW, which they most likely can't afford like many pointed out, I don't even think they would be able to sustain an audience for GL.

If anything, I have a feeling the show would attract good numbers in it's first week or so and then just fizzle out. I don't think their audience would become loyal to the show. If they were interested in a show like Guiding Light, I'm sure they would already be watching it on CBS.

[Rakesh]

This show needs a good time slot. I can see The CW taking it but it will cost them.

[alphanguy74]

On the one hand, you can say that GL wouldn't be a fit on CW because of the younger demographics, but on the other hand, wouldn't it also be a way for the CW to EXPAND their viewer base? That's why I think a broadcast network (as opposed to a cable channel) trying to zero in on a particular demo is utter foolishness from business standpoint. A vital and healthy boradcast network needs shows that appeal to all ranges and ages, putting all your eggs in one basket is a recipe for disaster. Everyone who invested exclusively in real estate a few years ago can attest to THAT.