CNN’s ‘King Charles’ with Charles Barkley faces ratings disaster

CNN’s attempt to boost ratings with the “King Charles” talk show, featuring Charles Barkley and Gayle King, has backfired. Since its late November debut, the show has experienced a 20% drop in viewership, losing out even to reruns of “Friends” and “South Park” on sister station TBS.

The premiere attracted 500,000 total viewers and 139,000 in the 25-54 age demographic. However, the most recent airing on Jan. 31 saw a decline to just 400,000 total viewers and 89,000 in the key demographic, marking the first episode to fall below the 100,000 viewer threshold in the 25-54 age range. The decline highlights the challenges faced by CNN’s attempt to blend Barkley’s outspoken style with King’s morning news persona.