TV quick hits: ‘Walking Dead’ ratings; Jimmy Fallon’s ‘Tonight Show’ lineup, ‘Parenthood’ crossover
We’ve got a few assorted TV scoops to share today in the latest edition of CarterMatt TV quick hits, so without further ado, let’s jump right in there with some news all about “The Walking Dead” and its latest attempt to dominate the ratings.
Zombies defeat Olympics – While the Sochi Games may have won in the total viewers measure, what is very surprising to us is that despite competing against the sporting event for the first time, the likes of Andrew Lincoln and company still managed to defeat the games by a pretty wide margin in the 18-49 demographic. While its 8.2 rating in the demo is not a record outright, it ties the total set by the premiere in the fall. Given the competition, which also did include “Downton Abbey” and “True Detective,” that is one heck of an achievement. The show also drew 15.8 million viewers, which was not a record but still great. We expect the show to come close to setting another one for its season 4 finale a little later in the spring, when the Olympics will be over.
Jimmy’s lineup – “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” today announced its full group of guests for its first week starting on February 17, and it is a group of pretty impressive people. You already knew that Will Smith and U2 would be on Monday’s show, but here is the rest of the lineup.
Tuesday – Lady Gaga, Kristen Wiig, and Jerry Seinfeld.
Wednesday – Bradley Cooper and Tim McGraw
Thursday – Michelle Obama, Arcade Fire, and Will Ferrell
Friday – Justin Timberlake
To us, the big highlights there including getting the First Lady in your first week on the air, and then also have Timberlake back for what is sure to be another round of great musical hijinks.
Seth Meyers promo – Meanwhile, take a look at the latest promo for “Late Night with Seth Meyers.” It is not overly complicated, but you are probably still going to find it funny regardless.
A little “Parenthood” story – Just in case you adore “Friday Night Lights,” you may be pleased to hear that Jesse Plemons and Derek Phillips are going to bring back their respective characters of Landry Clarke and Billy Riggins for “Parenthood’s” upcoming digital series “Friday Night at the Luncheonette,” which starts on Thursday night. Rejoice!
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Photo: AMC