NBC explores cutting primetime by an hour from 22.00

New Amsterdam

US broadcast network NBC is considering cutting its primetime programming from 22.00, according to US reports.

Execs have had early discussions around the potential shift, according to the Wall Street Journal, which could see local broadcasters picking up the hour of programming from 22.00-23.00.

NBC’s 22.00 slot currently houses shows such as the reboot of Quantum Leap, Law & Order: Organised Crime and New Amsterdam, although any changes would not come into effect until autumn 2023.

It is not the first time such a discussion has been reported and talks are at an early stage.

However, such a move would substantially curtail NBC’s primetime offering by up to seven hours a week, instead handing affiliate operators with the opportunity to air local news programming or syndicate shows.

It would also likely save on programming costs and comes as broadcast ratings continue to decline as viewers shift to streaming.

NBC’s decision will be closely watched by rivals, with Disney-owned ABC and Warner Bros Discovery’s CBS the other two US broadcast networks to offer three hours of primetime shows every evening.

Fox and The CW only have two hours per night, a situation that could change for the latter after US local broadcasting group Nexstar Media Group struck a deal to acquire a 75% majority stake in the network. Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount Global, the current co-owners of The CW, will each retain a 12.5% stake in the broadcaster.

NBC said: “We are always looking at strategies to ensure that our broadcast business remains as strong as possible. As a company, our advantage lies in our ability to provide audiences with the content they love across broadcast, cable and streaming.”