ABC Adds 10 More “Monday Night Football” Games Amid Hollywood Strikes

“Monday Night Football” returns to ABC, thanks to ongoing Hollywood strikes. ABC, a Disney-owned network, responds to the disruption by expanding its NFL game coverage, filling programming gaps left by the absence of scripted content.

ABC’s Response

On Monday, ABC revealed plans to add ten additional NFL games to its schedule, ensuring the entire fall season of “Monday Night Football” airs on the network. The decision aims to address the scheduling void left by the unavailability of scripted programming due to Hollywood strikes.

Shift in Programming

Traditionally, ABC featured reality shows like “Dancing with the Stars” and its Bachelor franchise on Monday nights. However, these shows have been rescheduled to different days to compensate for programming gaps. Consequently, ABC’s fall lineup for this year includes reruns, game shows, reality programs, and an extended football schedule.

Increased Football Coverage

While initially planning to broadcast eight “Monday Night Football” games, ABC now intends to air 18 games this season, with simulcasts from its sister channel, ESPN. This decision includes 20 games in total, featuring a Saturday afternoon game on January 6 and a playoff game over the January 20 weekend. These football broadcasts are expected to provide a significant ratings boost, as NFL games consistently rank among the most-watched television shows.

Return to Roots

ABC’s decision to feature “Monday Night Football” harks back to its previous broadcasting of the program from 1971 until ESPN acquired the rights in 2006.

Creative Solutions Amid Strikes

The ongoing strikes within Hollywood have compelled television networks to adopt creative solutions. CBS, for instance, started airing the highly rated Western drama “Yellowstone” and plans to add “NCIS: Sydney” and the original UK version of “Ghosts” to its schedule. NBC, on the other hand, strategically stockpiled already-filmed scripted shows for its fall lineup.

Hope for Resolution

The Writers Guild of America and the studios are expected to resume negotiations on Wednesday, raising optimism that the months-long strike may come to an end soon.

As Hollywood grapples with strikes, ABC’s decision to expand “Monday Night Football” coverage reflects the network’s adaptive approach to fill programming gaps, offering viewers an extended season of exciting NFL action.

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