Tentpoling is a programming strategy used in television scheduling where two newer or lower-rated shows are placed on either side of a highly popular and well-established program. The popular show acts as the “tentpole,” supporting the weaker programs by attracting a larger audience that might stay tuned before and after it.
The goal of tentpoling is to boost viewership for the less popular or untested shows by leveraging the strong audience pull of the hit program in the middle. This increases the chances that viewers will discover and continue watching the surrounding shows, improving their ratings and potential success.
While tentpoling can be effective in retaining audiences, it depends heavily on the strength of the central program and the compatibility of the neighboring shows. Poorly matched content or weak “tentpole” shows may limit the tactic’s effectiveness.