What is notable about the start of the new fall TV season, according to network executives, is a surge in not just delayed viewing, but very-delayed viewing.
The three had done particularly well in terms of delayed viewing, with their ratings increasing significantly through DVR viewings after they were initially shown on television.
This week, the account of the abysmal ratings for "Smash" included the note that the Broadway drama is still heavily viewed on a delayed basis, with last week's rating growing by 66 percent after three days of delayed viewing, rising to a 1.5 rating from a 0.9.
But it improves 47 percent when delayed viewing is included.
It helped executives recognize the value of delayed viewing.
Its 18-49 audience grows 142 percent when delayed viewing is included.
Fox said it expected above-average levels of delayed viewing for the episode.
And Mr. Beckman conceded, "A lot of delayed viewing is a function of commercial avoidance".
Not that the delayed viewing might have made a difference to the shows already cancelled.
And then it will go up again, as delayed viewing is eventually counted in.
By contrast, the competition shows tend to get only marginal gains from delayed viewing.
