TV Home Shows Boom During Bust

'People loved comedies during the Depression, too,' producer says
By Jim O'Neill,  Newser Staff
Posted Jun 12, 2008 9:20 AM CDT

Home shows are becoming the heavyweights of reality television, even as the housing market continues to plummet, the New York Times reports. HGTV and TLC have million-plus nightly audiences as shows that provide step-by-step guidance to potential homesellers and buyers appeal to viewers weary of past hits that traded on big bucks through real-estate speculation.

HGTV and TLC, loaded with home shows, have seen a steady audience increase even as the market has disintegrated. “People loved comedies during the Depression, too,” said the producer of TLC's Flip That House. Adds a former TLC exec: “The audience has a different attitude toward housing now, but they still care deeply about it.” (More real estate values stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X