Campbell Live Debut Exceeds Expectations

Tuesday, March 22, 2005

Campbell Live Debut Exceeds Expectations

Campbell Live has beaten its current affairs competitors on its debut.

Campbell Live drew a 28% share of the 18-49 television audience, compared with Close Up’s 24% and Paul Holmes’ 3%.

“This exceeds our expectations and it was good to kick off with a strong result after months of build-up and anticipation,” said TV3 Director of News and Current Affairs, Mark Jennings.

“John, Carol and the Campbell Live team have worked very hard for this, and they deserve the audience response the programme has achieved,” said Mr Jennings.

Last night, Campbell Live broke the story about the illegal selling of NZ Driver’s Licences, giving licences to people who haven’t sat a practical test, but instead paid $400 to obtain one.

In Auckland, (18-49) Campbell Live won the timeslot beating both Close Up (24% share) and Shortland Street (34% share), with Campbell Live achieving a 37% share.

Just as encouraging is the performance of 3 News, which achieved an impressive 34% share of 18-49 year old viewers nationally, bringing it within a few share points of One News on 40%.

To have also beaten Close Up in their own target audience (25-54) is very satisfying.

60 Minutes had a huge night too, achieving a 31% share in 18-49, winning the timeslot.

“However, this is only day one. We are here for the long haul, and to sustain strong numbers like this is a big challenge – but one we are ready for,” Mr Jennings said.

ENDS

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