The Phoenix channel was briefly the market leader among 14- to 49-year-olds. Up to one million people watched the Bundestag debate on the influx limitation law live on the public broadcaster. However, the channel has an average market share of less than one percent, which is why this event is considered a ratings miracle. Prof. Christiane Eilders, Scientific Director at the Center for Advanced Internet Studies (CAIS), explains that several factors are necessary to achieve high ratings: the appearance of well-known and important people, emotions, or conflicts. The particular importance of the topic also plays a major role. All these important news criteria were met in the live debate. In addition, Phoenix’s live broadcast allowed those particularly interested to follow the topics in detail and participate in the events. Despite all this, Prof. Christiane Eilders doubts that the channel will be able to attract a larger audience in the future, as this would require other formats to be used as well. The younger generation is enthusiastic about humor and short, entertaining, social media-like videos, while the older generation and those more interested in politics are won over by special and longer news programs. Nevertheless, Phoenix is still relevant for journalistic and political culture as an event and documentary channel.
Phoenix – Suddenly a Ratings Sensation
Up to one million people watched the Bundestag debate on the influx limitation law live on the public broadcaster Phoenix. This briefly made the station the market leader. Prof. Christiane Eilders, scientific director at the Center for Advanced Internet Studies (CAIS), explained in the WDR 5 media magazine why the ratings success is hardly surprising from a communication science perspective.