Home News TV Listings Movies Music Video Photos Radio Extra Book Club RTÉ Guide

Media News

Eastenders the loser in ratings battle

Thursday 3 March 2005
'Emmerdale' emerged victorious over 'EastEnders' in a head-to-head battle on Tuesday night.

Related Articles

Both soaps aired special one-hour episodes at 7pm and, according to  figures, 'Emmerdale' came out on top with almost 50% more viewers than its BBC rival.

The news has sparked industry speculation that the BBC may axe the programme next year, according to The Daily Mirror.

An average of 9 million viewers, a 40% share of the available audience,  tuned to see Charity Dingle's exit on ITV, while just 6.3 million (28%) opted for the latest from Albert Square.

The figures mark 'EastEnders' second lowest ratings ever in its 20-year history; the lowest being 6.2 million during another head-to-head in September of last year.

add your own comment
User contributions and/or comments do not, unless specifically stated, represent the views of RTÉ.ie or RTÉ.
Click here for Terms of use

Top 10 Most Read

1 Set for the win? Sweden's Loreen wins Eurovision 2012
2 Sweden's entry Loreen pictured at her winner's press conference Jedward congratulate Sweden's Loreen
3 Cole denies Cowell X Factor claims
4 Matt Cardle is "relieved" that he left his record label Matt cardle 'relieved' to leave label
5 Elton John is said to be recovering well Elton John recovering from illness
6 Adam Woodyatt Woodyatt 'overwhelmed' by fan response
7 Frank Skinner Skinner and girlfriend welcome baby boy
8 David Beckham is no longer the highest paid player in the US Beckham loses US highest paid status
9 Leona Lewis set to guest judge London auditions today Lewis begins X Factor judge role
10 James Van Der Beek regrets turning down Wedding Crashers Van Der Beek's role regret

Must Watch TV

  • - 30 Rock

    11.45pm, 3e

    Another case of a great show at an awful time - and it's a terrible shame because 30 Rock has probably been the smartest as well as the funniest network American sitcom since the glory days of Seinfeld. Tonight, Liz returns from holiday break with a new outlook that leaves her immune to Tracy's acting out over Jenna's new fame as a judge on the reality show America's Kidz Got Singing. Meanwhile, Kenneth prepares for the Rapture.

  • - Franc's DIY Brides

    8.30pm, RTÉ One

    With a budget of €10K, and 160 guests invited to their very special day, Franc is on hand to mentor Dublin couple Gemma Barnes and Gary Mackle as they endeavour to create their winter wonderland-themed wedding in Wexford. A wedding dress has to be found, and a ring needs to be re-worked all in an attempt to create a unique and cost effective 'wow' wedding. And Gemma and Gary head for Camp Franc to find out just how they can make their day perfect.

  • - Golf: PGA Championship

    2.30pm, BBC TWO

    Golf is one sport that looks amazing on TV, so here's another treat for couch potatoes. Hazel Irvine presents live coverage of the fourth and final round at Wentworth. Last year's final day culminated in a dramatic play-off between Luke Donald and Lee Westwood, and it was the former who emerged victorious to take the world number one spot off his compatriot. With so many Europeans dominating the top of the World rankings, viewers can expect a tight contest (and maybe an Irish win).