I’ve recently taken a look at how first-year series have performed, and whether (or not) TV’s oldies-but-goodies are still working. It’s been a mixed bag on both fronts — which is the nature of a medium that churns out constant product and leaves little room for error.
But what about those prime-time network shows that have returned (or will be back in midseason) for their second go-rounds? They survived a grueling freshman year accompanied by the scrutiny — and big-bucks decisions on the part of network execs — that goes with the prime-time territory. In some cases, the bloom is off the artistic/ratings rose; other shows, meanwhile, have gone about their business reasonably well.
Here’s an unscientific look at how last season’s freshman faves are faring thus far, with grades based on viewership and buzz.
Note: I haven’t included midseason returnees “Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders” (CBS), “Shades of Blue” (NBC) and “The Catch” (ABC), since they haven’t aired their second seasons yet.
CBS:
“Life in Pieces”
The line: Ensemble, well-acted sitcom has retained its quirkiness — and most of its audience. Still charming.
Grade: B+
“Code Black”
The line: This ER medical drama was a surprise renewal, given its low ratings — but axing first-year regulars Bonnie Somerville and Raza Jaffrey while importing reliable Rob Lowe hasn’t helped.
Grade: C-
The CW:
“Supergirl”: Premiered last season on CBS with “can’t miss” buzz attached to its star, Melissa Benoist. Well, it missed — but has thrived in its move to lesser-watched sister network The CW.
Grade: B
NBC:
“Blindspot”
The line: Gimmicky, densely-plotted show (mysterious woman’s tattoos help FBI solve crimes) has done just OK. No buzz, even about those tattoos.
Grade: C
“Superstore”
The line: Was renewed despite meh numbers, but NBC really wants this show to succeed, even gifting it with a special Olympics-themed episode that aired during the Rio games in August. Ensemble sitcom is still fun — for now. Renewed for the season.
Grade: B-
ABC:
“Quantico”
The line: One of last fall’s most-talked-about shows, particularly with charismatic star Priyanka Chopra as an FBI recruit suspected of terrorism. Different story now: fan complaints of static plot development have driven viewers away, though it’s treading water in the under-50 set.
Grade: C-
“Dr. Ken”
The line: Sitcom starring Ken Jeong as wisecracking physician isn’t in the best of health, with average viewership around 4 million. Those aren’t even good numbers for Friday night, a traditionally low-rated night of TV.
Grade: D+
“The Real O’Neals”
The line: Sitcom based on life of controversial writer and LGBT activist Dan Savage premiered in March. Nobody watched. That hasn’t changed this season.
Grade: D
Fox:
“Rosewood”
The line: Series about a crime-fighting Miami-based pathologist has a charismatic star (Morris Chestnut) and was helped last season by its pairing with Fox powerhouse “Empire.” Move to Thursday night this season has hurt viewership.
Grade: C
“Lucifer”
The line: Series about, well, Lucifer (Tom Ellis) — now retired, living in LA and helping to fight crime (don’t ask) — premiered in midseason and did well enough to earn a second season. Fox has ordered an additional nine episodes.
Grade: C+