Networks NBC and Fox Put to the Test

Some bad storms this week knocked out the power and a a couple of shows didn't record on the DVR. No big deal I thought. I enjoyed watching network shows on the internet so I will catch up online (or so I thought).

I was stunned to realize how clueless Fox and especially NBC are in the days of online distribution. First lets check out NBC. I wanted to catch up on a reality show called The Biggest Loser that airs on NBC. My first reaction was to go check out hulu.com since I have watched shows on there before. Hulu had a list of exclusive clips, excerpts and interviews but not the show. Pointless filler I thought so I went to nbcdirect.com. This service had by far the most potential of anything out there but to my amazement it has turned into a joke. NBCdirect seems to have all of the Jay Leno or Conan OBrian shows you could ever want along with American Gladiator. Are you kidding me? Next I went back to NBC.com to see what maybe they had. Ahhhh, there it was. But wait.... That navigation sure seems to be a mother just to watch the show. Then it hits me. They broke it up into these ridiculous small clips and don't even show the whole thing. What a freaking joke! Doesn't NBC realize this is a reality show which has a shelf life of about 2 weeks then nobody cares about it anymore? Why are they making it so difficult to get to and watch? What a ridiculous experience NBC. NBC seemed to have an edge going into the end of the year but now they seem like a joke. Not sure how you keep viewers.

NBC wasn't the only show affected. I really enjoy watching House on Fox. I started the process over again. Went to Hulu.com. Yes! Found it.....but...wait. The last updated show was over two episodes ago. Nooooooo. Did the online programmers go on strike with the writers? Then I went to fox.com only to experience the same disappointment.

A word to the networks. There is no excuse in this day and age to 'hide' your programs from viewers. There are plenty of choices out there. I hope the advertisers realize this and move on as well.