Despite a major shake-up to one of its biggest shows, things are not looking good for Network 10.
The eleventh season of The Bachelors premiered to a mere 224,000 metro viewers on Sunday night, its lowest premiere audience in franchise history.
The dating show, starring three suitors instead of one – was one of the least watched programs on the night.
By comparison, 60 Minutes had 485,000 viewers tuned in, while David Attenborough’s Planet Earth III attracted 336,000.
That result represents a steep 27 percent decline from the last Bachelor finale, which aired in January.
The eleventh season of The Bachelors premiered to a mere 224,000 metro viewers on Sunday night, it’s lowest premiere audience in franchise history. Pictured L – R: New Bachelors’ Luke Bateman, Ben Waddel and Wesley Senna Cortes
Season 10 finale starring Jed McIntosh, Felix Von Hofe and Thomas Malucelli had a five-city metro audience of just 358,000 viewers.
In its 2018 heyday, The Bachelor would draw almost a million metro viewers per episode.
Season 10 saw episodes regularly falling below 300,000.
Season 10 finale starring Jed McIntosh, Felix Von Hofe and Thomas Malucelli (pictured L-R) had a five-city metro audience of just 358,000 viewers
The debut episode introduced eligible Bachelors Luke Bateman, Wesley Senna Cortes, and Ben Waddel to audiences.
While the trio are hoping to win the heart of one of the women vying for their attentions, the premiere episode did not win the hearts of audiences.
Angry viewers quickly took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to complain about the debut.
‘I have never seen three more mediocre men in my whole life,’ wrote one disappointed viewer.
‘You could find more attractive men at 4am on King street and that’s saying something,’ added another.
Meanwhile, other users criticised the lack of charisma in the three young men starring on the show.
‘How in the Hillsong did Wesley – a guy who’s never had a girlfriend – end up as one of the Bachelors?’ an angry viewer vented.
‘Oh Ben… so rude. A roomful of women hoping to have a chat and you take the only one that’s currently occupied,’ a second person chipped in.
The debut episode introduced eligible Bachelors’ Luke Bateman, Wesley Senna Cortes, and Ben Waddel to audiences. While the trio are hoping to win the heart of one of the women vying for their attentions, the premiere episode did not win the hearts of audiences
Others suggested Channel Ten should revamp the show to make it engaging to audiences.
‘The last time I was actually interested in The Bachelor was like 2020. Geez, it’s been a while.’
Despite shocking ratings for its last season, which featured three bachelors instead of one, Channel 10 has decided to make another attempt to revive the flagging franchise.
Angry viewers quickly took to X, formerly known as Twitter , to complain about what unfolded before their eyes
‘Channel 10 is over the moon with the streaming numbers and the fresh direction the show has taken,’ a source told Daily Mail Australia.
The dating show, known for its cringeworthy moments and rose ceremonies, has managed to survive thanks to its video on demand (VOD) audience, the insider said.
‘They’re incredibly excited to bring it back for another season, proving love conquers all – even low ratings! The Bachelor has been doing surprisingly well on demand, and that’s what really counts in 2023,’ they explained.
The Bachelors Australia continues Monday at 7.30pm on Channel Ten
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