RTVE has recently implemented significant programming changes aimed at revitalizing viewership amid slipping ratings. The public broadcaster's decision to cancel the airing of the popular show 'La Revuelta', which is helmed by David Broncano, marked the first time the series has been omitted since its September debut. This cancellation coincided with the broadcast of the Copa del Rey semifinals, resulting from declining audience engagement and prior scheduling disruptions caused by the football tournament.
Despite earlier criticisms from loyal viewers of 'La Revuelta', who expressed their frustration over its irregular scheduling, RTVE initially maintained broadcast plans. Recently, changes reflected the pressure from diminishing viewership numbers. The interruption for Copa del Rey matches had repeatedly altered the timing of the show, sometimes relegated to late-night slots without any specific reason from the network.
On February 26, RTVE made the decisive choice to temporarily suspend 'La Revuelta' for one evening, allowing the network to experiment with scheduling strategies aimed at retaining audiences. While the entertainment program continued airing on February 26, it kicked off nearly two hours later than usual due to the F.C. Barcelona versus Atlético de Madrid match. Remarkably, it still managed to capture 14.9% audience share with around 1.17 million viewers, showcasing its potential even under adverse scheduling changes.
Conversely, the following day, RTVE opted to prioritize the airing of the 3rd chapter of the new drama series 'Esos asuntos internos', placing it after the Real Sociedad and Real Madrid match, indicating the network's intent to cultivate viewership for these new dramas.
Meanwhile, another significant change is looming as 'La Moderna', the Boomerang TV adaptation of Luisa Carnés’ novel Tea Rooms, is set to conclude its run. After nearly two years on air, the show will see its final episode broadcast soon. Starting the week of March 3, RTVE will rearrange its afternoon schedule, commencing with 'Valle Salvaje' at 16:15, followed by 'La Moderna' at 17:05, and maintaining 'La Promesa', which will remain at its current airing slot.
This adjustment will lead to 'La Moderna's' episodes being trimmed to just 30 minutes each. Sources have indicated the final episode will air on March 7, and following its conclusion, RTVE plans to re-organize another changeover across its afternoons.
Post-March 10, with the end of 'La Moderna', one common expectation is for 'Valle Salvaje' to occupy the day slot more permanently. This timing rearrangement reflects the dynamics of afternoon programming as it accustoms itself to the shifting viewer preferences and competitive media environment, particularly for shows such as the talk show hosted by Jorge Javier Vázquez.
TVE is also gearing up to introduce new entertainment formats. Several reports confirm production efforts are underway for daytime programming, spearheaded by Óscar Cornejo and Adrián Madrid, both associated with the defunct 'Sálvame'. This new endeavor aims to marry entertainment themes with public service objectives, including humor and socially responsible content.
The tentative premiere of this new show is projected for late March or early April to coincide with the conclusion of two of RTVE's current series. Presenting noteworthy personalities from the previous 'Sálvame', such as Belén Esteban and María Patiño, viewers can expect many familiar faces alongside new contributors.
According to TVE's director, Sergio Calderón, the program promises to present popular elements combined with innovative content to reinforce the network's commitment to viewer engagement. The show will see segments structured akin to earlier works where entertainment is integrated with informative topics, delivering content viewers seek during their daytime slots.
It remains to be seen how these changes will affect the audience's response as RTVE navigates through shifting viewer habits and competitive programming landscapes, particularly with the expectation of rival shows from other networks including Mediaset.
Given these developments and the competitive backdrop of Spanish television, RTVE's programming strategy aims to bolster viewer loyalty, fusing effective storytelling with entertainment suitable for family viewing. The transformation within the network's offerings underlines the importance of agility and responsiveness to audience feedback as the media environment continues to evolve.