Inquiring minds want to know: How have the ratings been for WGRZ-TV’s (Channel 2) “Most Buffalo” since Kate Welshofer and Maria Genero left the program Dec. 21? And when is the station going to announce its new host or co-hosts?
In an email response to the question about the new host or hosts, Channel 2 General Manager Mark Manders wrote: “The process is winding down and we should have a determination very soon.”
Judging by recent local Nielsen and ComScore ratings, the sooner the better.
Channel 2 would be wise to quickly name its new host or co-hosts to promote them.
Welshofer’s unique personality and creativity and her repartee with the popular Genero will be tough to replace.
The three in-house candidates to replace Welshofer are Lauren Hall, Heather Ly and Kelly Dudzik. Jennifer Stanonis appears to be Genero’s replacement as the weathercaster on the program.
Since Welshofer and Genero left, WIVB-TV’s (Channel 4) traditional 4 p.m. newscast has expanded its lead over “Most Buffalo” in both the ComScore and Nielsen ratings services.
However, the ratings come with an asterisk.
Channel 2 undoubtedly was hurt from Nov. 30 through Jan. 13 when the station was off DirecTV in a dispute between the satellite service and Tegna, Channel 2’s owner.
However, DirecTV is estimated to have only 8% to 15% of the market so it isn’t a huge factor.
Here is the ratings scorecard from the two services that measure audiences here.
The results should be “mostly” concerning for Channel 2.
The one thing that seems clear from all the numbers is Welshofer and Genero are missed by “Most Buffalo” viewers.
Nielsen: Channel 4 led in December – when Welshofer and Genero left “Most Buffalo” with a week remaining of daytime shows and Channel 2 off DirecTV – with an average rating of 4.1 to a 2.8 for “Most Buffalo.”
In January, the lead for the Channel 4 newscast co-anchored by Dave Greber and Jordan Norkus grew. Channel 4…
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