For three consecutive weeks, NBC News’ “Today” has surpassed “Good Morning America” in total viewership, marking its longest reign at the top in over four years. The week of November 11, 2024, saw “Today” averaging 2.682 million viewers (live plus same-day figures for regularly titled shows), slightly ahead of “GMA” at 2.654 million and “CBS Mornings” at 2.070 million.
“Today” also dominated the adults 25-54 and adults 18-49 demographics, achieving a 0.55 rating in the 25-54 group and 0.33 in the 18-49 group, significantly outperforming ABC and CBS.
NBC’s announcement highlighted “impression” figures, with “Today” registering 676,000 in the 25-54 demo and 437,000 in the 18-49 demo. However, the exact definition of “impressions” used remained unclear.
NBC did not provide “total viewer” data for the demos and did not respond to requests for clarification on data discrepancies or potential program retitling. The network's historical dominance in the 1990s and early 2000s was contrasted with ABC's subsequent gains.
This ratings success comes as co-anchor Hoda Kotb is expected to leave the show in January 2025, with Craig Melvin replacing her. While anchor changes often influence ratings, the long-term impact remains uncertain. Kotb's future role at NBC News is yet to be officially announced.
While initial ratings boosts following host changes are common, sustaining that growth is a greater challenge. The network did not respond to speculation surrounding the cost-saving implications of Kotb's departure.