Shonda Rhimes’ new baby is taking its title quite literally
Shonda Rhimes could stop producing television shows today and go down in history. Her two biggest franchises, Grey’s Anatomy and Scandal, have become synonymous with the words “must-see TV” over the past decade, and she has dominated the “18-49 rank” lane in ways few have been able to. Grey’s Anatomy has ranked no lower than 12th in it’s 10 seasons on the air, including six top 5 finishes. Scandal, which stars Kerry Washington and is currently in its 4th season, has risen up those ranks rapidly, beginning at 73rd in it’s inaugural season, and coming in at 8th at the culmination of season 3. It will undoubtedly finish even higher once season 4 is in the books.
Then, there’s How To Get Away With Murder. Initially, Viola Davis, the show’s leading actress, was met with opposition, including one New York Times columnist who referred to her as “less classically beautiful” than Kerry Washington. Still, there’s no denying Davis–who plays Annalise Keating, a straight-to-the-point, vicious lawyer (as evidenced above)–and her talent, which has made HTGAWM a must-watch for many. The series premiere pulled in 20 million viewers–DVR watchers included–and her success has continued into the winter. According to a Hollywood Reporter report, among new shows in the 18-49 demographic, How To Get Away With Murder has no competition from any new show across any major network, with a rating of 4.6. FOX’s Gotham is a close second at 4.0, and Black-ish looks good at 3.6. To put it in perspective, ABC’s heavily promoted Selfie series, which has since been cancelled, could only produce a rating of 1.5. It’s pretty safe to say HTGAWM will be ordered for a second season, and all is good in Shondaland.
