Battle of the Blades renewed for second season

From a media release:

CBC-TV’S BATTLE OF THE BLADES RENEWED FOR SECOND SEASON

  • Groundbreaking Canadian series a ratings and advertising success story

CBC Television announced today that its hit series BATTLE OF THE BLADES, featuring world-class figure skaters and former NHL’ers, will return next fall for a second season. The 14-episode series sold out to live audiences every week, and wrapped up on Monday, Nov. 16 with an unconfirmed television audience of 1.736 million tuning in for the one-hour results finale.

Overall viewership has been tremendous, with an average of 1.749 million viewers 2+ watching the seven performance shows on Sunday evenings, and 1.332 million Canadians 2+ tuning in for the Monday night results shows. Combined, BATTLE OF THE BLADES reached one out of three Canadians with a total unduplicated reach of over 10 million.

“We could not be happier with the audience and advertising response to this truly Canadian series,” said Kirstine Stewart, general manager, CBC Television. “CBC continues to generate successful and relevant top-tier programming and the return of Battle of the Blades is another welcome addition to our star-studded lineup.”

The program’s unique format and mass appeal provided an ideal platform for advertisers. Season one sponsors DanActive, ARTISTRY Brands, McDonald’s and Kruger Products showcased their brands to millions of Canadians through innovative program integrations and sponsorship opportunities, including: co-branded vignettes; the DanActive Warm-up Zone; the ARTISTRY Style Studio; and signage and product sampling at the legendary Maple Leaf Gardens. Season two of BATTLE OF THE BLADES will provide even more customized opportunities for advertisers to connect with Canadians.

The overwhelming response to the show concept has led Insight Productions to look at expanding the franchise globally.

“We are thrilled that Battle of the Blades has captured such a wide and diverse male and female viewing audience,” said John Brunton, president & executive producer, Insight Productions. “It has tremendous international potential as a big name sports and entertainment brand, and we look forward to growing this franchise significantly over the coming years.”

Viewers can learn more about the competitors at www.cbc.ca/battle, the official online portal for the series and the source for everything about BATTLE OF THE BLADES. In addition to videos and behind-the-scene photos, the site offers viewers the opportunity to become fans of their favourite pair and track each participant’s activity as they strive to be the final pair remaining at the end of the series.

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