Key Facts
On October 1, 2000, Fox aired the two-hour pilot of James Cameron and Charles H. Eglee's cyberpunk series 'Dark Angel' at 9:00 PM. The network had to request a special favor from its local affiliates: delay their 10:00 PM newscasts to accommodate the extended runtime. The premiere drew 17.3 million viewers, beating the first presidential debate between Al Gore and George W. Bush, which Fox chose not to broadcast live.
Details of the Affiliate Request
According to a report from The Philadelphia Inquirer on October 1, 2000, Fox's standard prime-time programming ran from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM. To air the movie-length pilot until 11:00 PM, Fox needed to encroach on time typically reserved for local news. Executives asked affiliates nationwide for a one-time agreement to delay their 10:00 PM newscasts. The request was granted, allowing the premiere to proceed.
Political Controversy and Ratings Success
Fox faced criticism for airing 'Dark Angel' instead of the first presidential debate between Al Gore and George W. Bush. ABC News reported the backlash. However, Fox's gamble paid off: the show attracted 17.3 million viewers, far exceeding debate audiences. Fox later aired a tape-delayed debate broadcast after the pilot.
Impact and Legacy
'Dark Angel' introduced Jessica Alba as Max Guevara, a genetically enhanced super-soldier in post-apocalyptic Seattle. Despite strong debut ratings, the series was cancelled in 2002 after two seasons due to high production costs—$12 million for the pilot and $1.3 million per episode—and declining viewership. The show ended on a cliffhanger, leaving fans disappointed.
What Readers Should Know
- The two-hour pilot required Fox to break its usual prime-time schedule.
- Fox prioritized the sci-fi series over a historic presidential debate.
- High costs and falling ratings led to early cancellation.
FAQ
Why did Fox ask affiliates to delay local news for 'Dark Angel'?
The two-hour pilot aired from 9-11 PM, extending beyond Fox's usual prime-time slot (8-10 PM), which required affiliates to postpone their 10 PM local newscasts.
How many viewers did 'Dark Angel' premiere attract?
The premiere drew 17.3 million viewers, outperforming the first 2000 presidential debate between Al Gore and George W. Bush.
Why was 'Dark Angel' cancelled after two seasons?
High production costs ($12 million pilot, $1.3 million per episode) and declining ratings led to its cancellation in 2002.