CBS has become a staple for television viewers, especially with its thrilling lineup of shows. Sunday nights are a prime slot for hit series like The Equalizer, Tracker, and Watson, but there’s one problem: they never seem to start on time. If you’ve ever been glued to the couch, only to be left waiting while the clock ticks past the expected airtime, you’re not alone. But why does this keep happening?
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind these delays and what CBS is doing (or not doing) to fix them. Let’s dive in!
The Complex World of Live TV and Scheduling
What is Live TV Scheduling?
When it comes to TV, especially live TV, timing is everything. Networks like CBS work with a meticulous schedule that balances advertisements, program lengths, and even real-time events. However, things don’t always go as planned. Live events, such as sports games or special coverage, often push back the times of scheduled shows.
But does that explain why your favorite Sunday night shows are constantly delayed?
Why Do Live Events Affect TV Shows?
Live events, particularly sporting events, are often unpredictable. Think about it: A football game can go into overtime, or a news broadcast might run long due to breaking developments. For CBS, these live events often directly impact when The Equalizer, Tracker, and Watson are able to air. And guess what? They don’t always finish on time.
If you’ve ever watched a thrilling game of football or a last-minute sports victory, you’ve seen the chaos unfold. As a result, CBS has to push the following show’s air time later and later, sometimes not even making the original slot.
The Impact of Advertisements and Commercials
How Advertisements Mess with the Schedule
Ah, commercials—those necessary evils that fund your favorite TV shows. But sometimes, these ads aren’t just annoying, they are the culprit behind those delayed start times. CBS has a schedule to maintain when it comes to commercial breaks, and when a live event runs long, they often have to squeeze in additional ads.
So, while you’re waiting for The Equalizer to start, it could very well be that CBS is trying to fit in another commercial block, making sure advertisers get their money’s worth. The result? Delays.
The Domino Effect: How Delayed Shows Lead to Even More Delays
Here’s the thing: Once one show runs late, it affects the next one. If Tracker or Watson starts late, they don’t just delay the next episode. They throw off the whole evening’s programming schedule. So, you’re not just waiting for The Equalizer—you’re actually waiting for the entire CBS lineup to catch up. This domino effect can lead to significant delays that viewers simply aren’t prepared for.
Why Do Fans Keep Coming Back Despite the Delays?
The Draw of CBS’s Sunday Lineup
Even with the notorious scheduling issues, CBS’s Sunday night shows remain hugely popular. But why? It all comes down to the quality of content. Whether it’s the action-packed drama of The Equalizer, the suspenseful Tracker, or the gripping detective work of Watson, these shows are captivating audiences, even if they never seem to air on time.
Do Fans Mind the Delays?
Interestingly, a large portion of CBS’s audience seems to tolerate the late start times. Fans have grown accustomed to the unpredictability of live TV, and many are willing to stick around to catch their favorite shows. But that doesn’t mean the delays don’t cause frustration.
CBS’s Response to the Issue: Are They Doing Anything to Fix It?
Has CBS Addressed the Scheduling Problems?
In short: not really. While the network is well aware of the delays, it hasn’t made significant moves to change the scheduling structure. CBS has made small adjustments here and there, but live sports and commercials continue to dictate the start times of primetime shows.
Could There Be a Solution?
Is it possible for CBS to adjust its programming in a way that allows Tracker, Watson, and The Equalizer to start on time every Sunday? Yes, but it would require significant changes in how live events and commercials are managed. CBS could extend the length of its Sunday evening programming slot or offer more flexible scheduling for shows.
Viewer Tips for Dealing with CBS’s Sunday Night Delays
Recording Shows for Later Viewing
One of the easiest ways to avoid frustration is to record your favorite CBS shows and watch them when it’s convenient for you. Many viewers have already adopted this strategy to sidestep the unpredictable air times. It allows them to fast-forward through commercials and skip the waiting game altogether.
Check CBS’s Updated Listings
Another option is to keep an eye on CBS’s website or app for updates on show timings. Although this doesn’t guarantee a perfect schedule, you might find that they offer more accurate estimates, allowing you to better plan your viewing experience.
Could Streaming Be the Future for CBS Shows?
Are Streaming Services the Answer?
With the rise of streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime, traditional networks like CBS are feeling the heat. Could this be the key to solving the timing issue? Streaming services allow viewers to watch their favorite shows on their own schedule. It’s certainly a tempting option for those tired of dealing with TV delays.
But for now, CBS seems committed to its traditional broadcast model, and fans of Tracker, Watson, and The Equalizer will need to keep adjusting their expectations when it comes to air times.
Conclusion: The Waiting Game Continues
So, why do ‘Tracker,’ ‘Watson,’ and ‘The Equalizer’ never start on time? The answer lies in the unpredictable nature of live TV, the impact of advertisements, and the domino effect of delayed programming. While CBS fans are used to these delays, the frustration remains, and only time will tell if CBS takes action to fix the issue.
If you’re one of the many fans who are tired of the waiting game, it might be worth considering alternative ways to watch these shows, whether it’s through recording or streaming.
