'Lost' finale ratings: Good enough for the win, but it's no season 1

G-man Thu, Nov 13, 2008 at 04:42 PM EST

God I hate Lost, most overrated series in TV right now

Thu, Nov 13, 2008 at 04:40 PM EST

Everything after season 1 is a big disappointment!

Jeff Sun, Oct 26, 2008 at 11:22 AM EST

Lost is the most overrated series. It's nothing special and original, the characters are all two dimentional and I don't really believe that the writers knew everything from the beginning as they claim. The result is the big mess we see and nothing makes sense anymore.

Michelle Sun, Aug 24, 2008 at 05:03 PM EST

Lost is a major disappointment. It started great but after the first season it went downhill. Now is just a boring soap opera and the writers seems more interested in the Jack-Kate-Sawyer love triangle than in the real mysteries. It’s only logical that the ratings are dropping and they will continue to drop. And eventually in 2010 when the finale will air no one will be there to watch! It’s sad but it’s true, you’ll see.

jbull Tue, Jun 3, 2008 at 01:48 PM EST

JasonHomey, I totally agree. Both great shows, but BSG has been uneven lately.

JasonHomey Tue, Jun 3, 2008 at 12:59 AM EST

What is up with the BSG vs. Lost thread here. It reminds me of the Star Wars vs. Star Trek fights (for the record, i love both of those two). I love both BSG and Lost, they are probably my two favorite on tv over the last several years, but right now, Lost is better than BSG. As a whole series, I would also say Lost is better. Anyone who hasn't watched BSG, you really would enjoy it and you don't have to be a sci-fi fan. Sure, the rest of the sci-fi channel is garbage, but don't hold that against BSG. BSG has been uneven since the middle of season 3 and very inconsistent, not unlike Lost at the beginning of season 3. But since mid-season 3 for Lost, they have been easily the best show on tv. Both shows are similar in that there are things that both shows may not bring up for a couple seasons and they expect you to be smart enough to remember it. 24 was one of the best shows on tv but has probably seen its time pass (that and Lost are my top two favorites of late, X-Files also).

Jim Tue, Jun 3, 2008 at 12:34 AM EST

Also, for those who complain about the long lag between seasons -- it's either that or more reruns during the year, which is what people hated. Shows that run from Sept.-May always show reruns during the year, and about 22 new shows. People complained about this, and Lost's producers listened. That's why it starts in Jan/Feb. now, instead of Sept. Shows like Lost and 24 start in Jan. and run consecutive weeks with no reruns. So you can complain about reruns or the long lag between seasons, but you get one or the other -- take your pick! BSG and The Sopranos had a long time between seasons.

Jim Tue, Jun 3, 2008 at 12:30 AM EST

Lost is in no danger of being canceled. Its ratings are down from the initial excitement of Season 1, but it's still one of the highest rated scripted dramas on TV (i.e., non-reality show, especially with the highly coveted 18-49 demographic.

Ratings for all shows are lower than they were 40 years ago because there are many more channels now. In the 1960s there were only 3 networks (5 now) and no cable tv.

Lost has lost some viewers from its first year, but a lot of the difference can be found in those of us who record it on DVR or Tivo and watch it later. Also, many people wait for the DVDs to come out and watch the entire year at once.

Lost's running time is the same as most hourly shows -- about 43 minutes. Whether it's on for 58 or 62 minutes, the amount of running time is about the same -- just fewer commercials. ABC just wanted to run Grey's Anatomy longer because it gets good ratings, and they hope viewers will stay to watch Lost rather than change the channel.

Zach Mon, Jun 2, 2008 at 02:39 PM EST

When they ran reruns in season 1.. they lost alot of ppl... Bad move ABC..DOH!!!
Here is the reason why. PPl missed episodes, thinking it was reruns.. then ppl decided, like myself, i cant watch them out of order, so i wil wait for dvd... I missed all of S2 and S3 because of that. Showing reruns every other week, or for 2-3 weeks is sloppy and makes you lose veiwers...

Caroline Mon, Jun 2, 2008 at 02:27 PM EST

Sadly I couldn't watch the finale on TV because I work from 8pm to 4:30am every day. However, as soon as I got home from work I immediately logged online and watched the 2 hour finale on ABC.com!
The past couple of seasons haven't been as good so I'm glad this season is picking up. I have friends who stopped watching last season but picked up again this season because exciting things were happening!

Amy Mon, Jun 2, 2008 at 11:48 AM EST

I think the huge gaps between seasons has also added to the loss of viewers. I have friends who have lost interest because there's too much time from one season to the next.

Jane Mon, Jun 2, 2008 at 11:40 AM EST

I'm surprised the ratings were that good. The show is the best, but the networks have really been slacking in their programming - it's like they've given up. People get accustomed to 'Nothing' on TV and find other things to do. We are into the season of reruns and crummy reality shows. We actually had to plan to watch the show. I hope the networks start realizing that to get loyal viewers, they need to keep giving us good shows all the time.

boocat Mon, Jun 2, 2008 at 11:19 AM EST

Don't care about the ratings as long as ABC allows them to finish the show. I love LOST!!!!

Mimi Sun, Jun 1, 2008 at 10:44 PM EST

Well the first season was about getting to know the characters and the subsequent seasons have gotten deeper, more psychological and more sci-fi-ish. So that has a tendency to drive people away. And I think the thing with season 2 being so scattered really turned people off.

Weiss Sun, Jun 1, 2008 at 07:08 PM EST

as long as the show gets to finish the 6 years without being cancelled, I am happy. just needs enough ratings to avoid that.

Kristen Sun, Jun 1, 2008 at 06:20 PM EST

I totally agree with Karen. The huge wait between seasons is probably hurting the ratings a bit. Eight months without Lost? I guess I'll need to have a life for awhile. bummer.

Jackie Sun, Jun 1, 2008 at 01:45 PM EST

Lost is the only show that we watch "live". As much as the commercials bug us we have to watch as it airs.
Lost is one of ABC's top shows and yet it has had 5 different time slots and 2 different days since it has been on the air. I always thought 8.00 pm was a little too early but 10.00 pm is too late. I hope they move it back to 9.00 pm next season. Also since it moved to Thursday the episodes only run 58 minutes. Before they were 62. I want my 4 minutes back!

TV addict Sun, Jun 1, 2008 at 02:36 AM EST

hey everyone - it doesn't matter how many people you have at your viewing party, if you don't have a Nielsen box, you still don't count at all, though it would be great to think that what we watch matters to the powers that be.

Maun Sun, Jun 1, 2008 at 12:05 AM EST

Gotta say, "Lost" has never let me down, and I've never felt patronized as a viewer. I'm sticking to the end, and so are many other people around the world. Don't forget, "Lost" has always had massive international appeal. The writing and acting are excellent(how many times have you gone back and forth on your feelings for Ben, Jack, Sawyer, Locke, etc.? Think about it). A lot of people have returned knowing there's an end date, and the finale is bound to be huge, the closet TV will be getting to a sure thing in the next few years.

Karl Sat, May 31, 2008 at 10:52 PM EST

People, we're not saying we want instant gratification like L&O or CSI, but let them reveal *some* stuff, ya know? Yeah, it good things are picking up now that an end date is in sight, but for almost 3 years, nothing was revealed...i hope they reveal some more stuff before the show ends. i'm still wanting to know who Adam & Eve were...

April Sat, May 31, 2008 at 06:31 PM EST

I'm with many of the other posters. Hell, Thursday night's finale was the first time I didn't see Lost while it aired b/c I DVR'd every episode.

People are working longer hours now. Thank God for the DVR.

mathew Sat, May 31, 2008 at 03:52 PM EST

Lost is the most downloaded show on I-Tunes. Week after week. The top 3 shows on I-Tunes right now are all Lost. I also don't see the comparison between LOST and BSG(my favorite shows). They are both completely different so to say one is better than the other makes no sense. However I care more about the characters in Lost than those in BSG.

thevisitor Sat, May 31, 2008 at 12:56 PM EST

The BEST show on TV right now. I like the fact that you actually have to think while you're watching it. Sun surprised me this past season. She's one of my favorite actors on the show right now.

Mike D Sat, May 31, 2008 at 12:27 PM EST

regarding my previous comment I meant they are not getting a true reading of dvr ratings. Thanks

Mike D Sat, May 31, 2008 at 12:25 PM EST

I have to say that any of my favorite show like Lost, I watch on Tivo usually later that night so I can skip commercials on so forth, so I think that they are getting a true read on the ratings, I know the take into account of some dvr's but I don' think they include them all. Thanks

kaytee Sat, May 31, 2008 at 12:15 PM EST

Wow. I watch and love both Lost and BSG(apples & oranges). I wasn't aware those shows were in some direct competition. There's an awful lot of pompous hot air on this board. What's that all about? I would never waste my valuable time by pummeling a show I don't care for, looking for a posting fight with the show's fans. Weird.

queen of disrepair Sat, May 31, 2008 at 11:59 AM EST

In this week's ew magazine, check out the chart for viewership over this past season for all broadcast shows. Lost makes SOOOOOO MUUUCCCHHH money overseas, on DVD and will continue to make money when it goes into reruns and is on forever somewhere. With the strike, with moving the time slots and the days, with the ability the producers have shown to court and respect fan feedback - LOST is reinventing series committment to its viewers. If some drop off the weekly viewing, you know they'll be renting/buying the DVD. Anyone have the data on webviewings/or downloads? The demo for network has been continually declining - I'm willing to bet LOST rules in the new media world.

Ally Sat, May 31, 2008 at 10:41 AM EST

Dr. B, you are right about SUN and JIN: two of the few characters I DO CARE about (and even Sawyer a little bit.) BUT, the endless story lines on Ben, Juliet, Desmond, etc.

Mark Sat, May 31, 2008 at 09:11 AM EST

What a lot of people don't realize is how popular the show is overseas, on DVD, iTunes, and DVRs. ABC wants to know what the island is. They won't cancel it for any reason.

The Watcher Sat, May 31, 2008 at 09:06 AM EST

Great show and Great quality. Period. Shows need to evolve just like any great artist.

George Sat, May 31, 2008 at 09:06 AM EST

They won't cancel the show even if the overall ratings decline. As long as the show does well in the adults 18-49 demo (the only demo that usually matters to advertisers), and makes a profit, they'll keep it on for the last 2 seasons.

Guinea Charm Sat, May 31, 2008 at 09:01 AM EST

Lost is a top 20 show and one of the few non-reality shows that the public is watching. Ratings are down across the boards due to the strike, tivo and shows being available on DVD. Also, the general public wants resolutions quickly, like Law and Order, where everything is answered within an hour. Those type of viewers are not what Lost needs. Enjoy the journey- we have two more brilliant seasons ahead.

KT Sat, May 31, 2008 at 08:36 AM EST

doctor B- I totally agree with you. It was the characters that hooked me on this show. Who didn't shed a tear in the Season 3 finale with Charlie floating in the Looking Glass.

doctor B. Sat, May 31, 2008 at 08:24 AM EST

Ally, I am really surprised at your comment b/c the part I have enjoyed most about this show has been getting to know the characters, learning where they come from and seeing them transform through their experiences on the island and w/ each other. A perfect example is Sawyer's sacrifice on the season finale. Thinking back to the first season, did you ever imagine he would be capable of such selflessness? And if you felt nothing watching Sun's overwhelming and dramatic devastation, you are probably right to decide the show is not for you. Each to their own. The characters are what captivate me... there's always the smoke monster, of course.

Karen Sat, May 31, 2008 at 08:21 AM EST

Personally, I don't think the ratings have anything to do with how good or bad the show is. I think it is a fatal flaw by the networks to put 8 months between the end of a season and the begining of a new one. They are shooting themselves in the foot, plus the fans who get frustrated with the long wait. You forget details and plot lines by that time and it feels like too much work to go back and refresh yourself after 8 months. I know that the reasoning behind the wait is so fans can get the episodes consecutively, but it seems to me, they can make it work in the fall.

Meredith44 Sat, May 31, 2008 at 08:09 AM EST

I actually am a little worried about the ratings decline. I know that ABC has set an end date, but that doesn't necessarily stop them from canceling it beforehand. As there will be yet another long break before the next season (and with people who may or may not have liked the direction the show went this season), I'm concerned that the ratings might go down to a point where the last season is in question.
With that being said, though, I hope that this is a core of fans who really want to find out what is in store for the end and will stick around through the final season.
I also wish that there could be a better way to get ratings. I just don't see how Nielsen numbers can be accurate, given all of the different ways people watch television these days.
Oh, and in regards to quality, I'd say that the second 1/2 of season two and the first 2/3 of season three weren't necessarily so great, but I really enjoyed this last season and am looking forward to more.

George Sat, May 31, 2008 at 07:25 AM EST

Actually, Pete, the FF reek of "we've run out having to come us with a flashback for the characters, so let's reboot the show YET AGAIN and say we planned it all along". They don't prove anything in terms of what was thought out. If anything, seasons 4-6 seasons *may* have been thought out once they came up with the FF idea, towards the end of S3, but I doubt it. Especially when you consider Ben was only supposed to be on for 3 or 5 eps, but the producers changed their minds, which is just one example. So you don't seem to know what you are talking about. Denial isn't just a river in Egypt, and unlike you, I'm not trying to 'be right', I was expressing my opinion, and will continue to do so. I didn't realize expressing an opinion was equal to wining. And it seems that there are people who agree with me, hence the sagging ratings of this show. Oops, sorry, we're all watching crap on other channels. Don't blame me if my argument or point escapes you.

Ally Sat, May 31, 2008 at 07:08 AM EST

To Pete ... BSG IS FAR SUPERIOR! And it has one up on LOST, flawed as they are, LIKABLE characters. I don't really CARE about the characters on LOST, they've never brought out enough humanity in them to want me to see them survive. Far too much time is spent on the backstory of new characters YOU DON'T LIKE and CARE ABOUT -- and not enough on the ones you barely do.

Pete Sat, May 31, 2008 at 06:43 AM EST

George, BSG?? You are going to have to give a better example than that if you expect me to take your comment as anything more than a joke. Sorry pal, it simply sounds like you just want to be right, but unfortunately, you're not. The flash forwards were very much proof that the writers already had the basic story plot already completed. So you don't really even have an kind of argument. You're certainly entitled to your opinion though, but you didn't give any proof that you were right. So please don't wine about it, no one has to agree with you.

HobokenDave Sat, May 31, 2008 at 05:42 AM EST

Ratings, like political polling are a joke. What a small percentage of viewers are watching, somehow represents what we are all watching. Regardless, as mentioned already, moving a show to 5 different timeslots, LONG breaks between seasons etc...the show still has a following.
But I will say...I'm old enough to remember what was a "hit' show in the 80's...any network show with less than 20 million views was toast back then. So it is VERY funny to hear shows called a hit today with 10 million viewers (when there are actually MORE TV viewers).

George Sat, May 31, 2008 at 02:29 AM EST

Sorry Birish, but it's not '5 Years in the making', this show reboots itself every year while the writers try and find a way to tie it all together and come up with a running storyline. I watch BSG, a FAR superior show to this, where at least the writers admit they are making it up as they go along, but seems to tie together in a much better way. And for the record, I also watch Madmen, 30 Rock, Reaper, and Damages. I also loved The Wire. All fine shows, and none of which are considered 'crap' by any stretch. Maybe not as 'innovative', but all are quality shows. Stop assuming that just because we don't think this is the best TV show since TV was invented that we only watch 'crap' shows. Don't be such an ignorant snob. A person can criticize this show without being a 'hater', that is a stupid argument used to silence people who don't agree with you. Maybe you should just cover your ears and shout 'Lalalala' over and over again? Sorry if you refuse to see that the emperor has no clothes.

Birish Sat, May 31, 2008 at 12:33 AM EST

George your comments are amusing. Of course the show is not what it used to be. It is almost 5 years in the making on one story arc! There is not another show currently airing on television with that kind of arc. I do not know what you watch on television however, nothing digs as deep as LOST except maybe battle star galactaca. If you can not see the funneling effect to a conclusion than just keep watching the crap that you think is the best on tv. The rest of us, we will watch LOST and participate in a real television experience.

George Sat, May 31, 2008 at 12:15 AM EST

Or maybe all of this just shows what certain critics and hardcore fans aren't willing to accept, that this show is declining in quality. It'll never be as good as the first season and a 1/2, it's veered off course so much from what it was, the show was about survivors on a mysterious island, now it's been hijacked by a 'war' between Ben and Widmore. Ok...it is still a watchable show, but def NOT the best thing on TV right now. Deal with it.

Rob Grizzly Fri, May 30, 2008 at 11:12 PM EST

I'm actually disturbed that viewership has (and continues) to decline. What's the matter people? Can't keep up?

It's a good thing Lost isn't on Fox or they would have cancelled it by now

Trazey Fri, May 30, 2008 at 09:07 PM EST

I'm almost GLAD viewership is down LOL It's so annoying when "non Losties" try to talk about the show when they haven't seen every single second like us true (rabid!) fans :) Only the most faithful will remain, and that suits me just fine. Namaste!

Al Fredo Fri, May 30, 2008 at 08:10 PM EST

I agree with most of the posters that ratings right now are irrelevant - either inaccurate of true viewership, or as one poster said meaningless in terms of deciding the show's fate (the last 2 fixed seasons will happen no matter what given the core fan base). Hey, the show isn't for everyone. Nor should it be. But for those who invest the time into it, it's amazingly rich, layered, complex, and entertaining (and thanks to Doc Jensen for the recaps and fantastic theories to make the experience even more enjoyable).

fred Fri, May 30, 2008 at 07:33 PM EST

Lost ratings are great when you factor in the NBA playoffs ratings are back and the writer's strike that turned people off in general, even though it had little effect on the Lost season (missed approx a month). Me and my wife are dedicated fans and thought this was the best season so far. Kudos to the actor that plays Ben. He took a part that when he was first introduced, I could care less to now I could not picture Lost without his character. Kudos to the best writers and actors on TV.

t3hdow Fri, May 30, 2008 at 07:25 PM EST

I wouldn't worry about Lost's descending ratings at this point. It may have been a concern last year when Lost almost drove its fanbase to the breaking point with its stagnant storylines, but now that the show has an end date, a slimmed down format that dramatically improves the show's good:bad episode ratio, and the fans are sated and more involved than ever, the concern is almost non-existant at this point. ABC will still support Lost to the bitter end, despite dropped ratings (and factor in the writers strike as well for ratings descension). Well that, and a portion of the season 1 viewers stopped halfway into season 2 or season 3.
I also agree that people who expect immediate closure within every installment will be turned off. That point was made most blatant when CBS's Criminal Minds beat Lost in the ratings in fall 2006. The irony is that Minds aims to be psychologically harrowing and creepy, but Lost does a much better job at performing both.

Lauren Fri, May 30, 2008 at 07:23 PM EST

I had 6 people at my house and i know someone that had 8. That only counts for 2 views....it doesn't matter how many viewers tuned it...lost is still great!

Jamie Fri, May 30, 2008 at 04:59 PM EST

Someone else wrote that Lost isn't for people who need immediate gratification. It's so true. Making a show that defies conventional TV structure in favor of something that evolves and may potentially turn off people who want a narrow premise that can be easily grasped - takes resolve and ratings to back it up. Thanks to ABC for backing this show in the fickle business that is television.

Tim Fri, May 30, 2008 at 04:04 PM EST

Excellent season finale. Excellent season.

Those who resent this show can't handle the lack of continual closure. To those folks, I suggest 'Law & Order' or any of the CBS hour-long crime procedurals. This show is simply not for you.

For the rest of us, this ride continues to thrill. I'm expecting a great Emmy year for this season too. Terrific writing and excellent acting this year, particularly from the actors portraying Sun (especially her - who knew she had all this in her?), Sayid, Kate and Ben.

jjabramizeme Fri, May 30, 2008 at 03:44 PM EST

LOST finales also tend to attract viewing parties -- we had 10 people in my apartment last night but that's only going to account for 1 view.

lost on Weds Fri, May 30, 2008 at 03:34 PM EST

I think the move to a new timeslot at a much later time is part of the problem. It's hard to be up til 11pm when work comes at 6am. I'd like to see what the DVR/Tivo numbers are on this episode.

Molly Fri, May 30, 2008 at 03:31 PM EST

Last night's episode was what the show needed- an introduction to a fresh storyline.

Winning the timeslot is still good news. It may be down from season 1 but aren't most shows losing viewers?

Marian Fri, May 30, 2008 at 03:30 PM EST

I can't believe some of you think the finale was 2 hours of nothingness. It had intrigue, death, surprise, more questions. Some parts of the plot are hard to follow or understand but that's part of the intrigue. I can't wait until next season starts. I tape it while I'm watching for 2 reasons....I don't usually stay up that late so I don't want to take a chance of dozing off during a commercial AND it's better watching it a 2nd time.

Tony Fri, May 30, 2008 at 03:21 PM EST

How could anyone bash last nights finale'? What a brillantly told story again. The Lost season enders are like epic movies. Unreal story and a lot to keep you wanting more next year. People who are haters aren't smart enough to understand the show or loyal enough to stick with a story. Go watch CSI Miami if you want everything tied in a nice bow each episode...mindless entertainment. As far as ratings. A serialized show like this will drop viewers each year. Factor into DVR usage, all shows on abc are free the next day and how many other shows have survived being in 5 different time slots in 4 seasons and still get very good ratings? This one!

Dave Fri, May 30, 2008 at 02:52 PM EST

But isn't viewership down across the board? I think that softens the blow of "disappointing" ratings like these. Plus, what TV series gains viewers over the years? That pretty much never happens. I think as long as Lost is winning its time slot, it should be considered a high-performing series.

vw Fri, May 30, 2008 at 02:48 PM EST

ppl watch this show on ABC.com and dvd too so how can you track that. i know personally my best friend just got caught up this season and is a LOST addict now and has turned her daughter on to it as well. at least for the 12 mil of us out there we are devoted, hard core fans who want to see this thru the end. part of the reason viewers left was the lack of focus in season 3 but when the producers finalized an end game it was back! last night's show was one of the best ever!! i think the american ppl overall want something dumbed down and mindless which this show never was and that's the shame of it all. it's great to finally have a show that is fully engaging and not just some mindless crap.

Dave Fri, May 30, 2008 at 02:48 PM EST

Hey Rob, why comment on a show you don't like? Sounds like a hater to me.

Rob Fri, May 30, 2008 at 02:41 PM EST

Lost is the most overrated show on television. I'm happy to see its viewership is continously dropping. I guarantee that in 2010, the show's finale will be as hated as the "Sopranos" finale. This show is just a major build-up to disappointment.

sari Fri, May 30, 2008 at 02:31 PM EST

Lost is a good show but SO frustrating. Yesterday's finale was 2 hours of nothingness. The TV equivalent of "Babel."

Jonas Fri, May 30, 2008 at 02:17 PM EST

Ratings are a thing of the past. What with DVR's, streaming, etc. who really knows how many people are watching?

JD Fri, May 30, 2008 at 01:53 PM EST

Why should anyone concern themselves with the ratings LOST gets? It's not going to be canceled. We have two seasons left of what in my mind has been the greatest television show of this generation. Sure it has lost viewership due to the complexity of the storyline, time slot changes, etc. but it will always do 11-12 million viewers because at this point these 11-12 million people want to see it through to the end in 2010. Thank you LOST for giving me so much to "geek out" about last night and for the last 4 seasons.