Meaning: Roone Arledge, a prominent journalist, raised an important question about news consumption and audience engagement with the quote, "One of the reasons why when Elvis dies or the Son of Sam is captured ABC News' ratings go up is because people who don't normally watch news are watching then. The question is, do you want to attract people who don't watch network news or fight over the people who do?" This quote reflects the dilemma faced by news networks in attracting and retaining viewers, particularly those who may not typically engage with traditional news programming.

Arledge's observation highlights the phenomenon of "event-driven viewership," where major news events or sensational stories captivate a broader audience beyond regular news consumers. This can lead to a surge in viewership and ratings for news outlets. The death of a cultural icon like Elvis Presley or the capture of a notorious criminal like the Son of Sam draws attention from a wider demographic, including individuals who are not regular consumers of network news. The influx of these event-driven viewers presents an opportunity for news networks to expand their audience reach and potentially attract new, long-term viewers.

The quote also raises an essential question about the strategic approach of news networks in shaping their content and programming. Arledge's query, "Do you want to attract people who don't watch network news or fight over the people who do?" underscores the fundamental choice that news organizations face in their pursuit of audience engagement. Should they focus on retaining their existing audience base, competing for the attention of habitual news consumers, or should they seek to diversify and appeal to a broader spectrum of viewers, including those who are not traditionally drawn to network news?

In today's media landscape, the competition for viewership is fierce, and news outlets grapple with the challenge of maintaining relevance and capturing the attention of diverse audiences. The rise of digital media and social platforms has further fragmented the audience, offering an array of alternative sources for news and information consumption. As a result, news organizations must carefully consider how to position themselves in a way that resonates with both their core audience and potential new viewers.

Arledge's question prompts reflection on the broader objectives of news programming and the evolving nature of audience engagement. While it is crucial for news networks to cater to the informational needs and preferences of their existing audience, there is also a compelling case for expanding their appeal to individuals who may not typically gravitate towards traditional news content. By doing so, news outlets can broaden their impact, contribute to a more informed society, and potentially cultivate a more diverse and engaged viewership.

Moreover, the quote underscores the significance of newsworthy events and compelling storytelling in driving audience interest. While routine news coverage is essential for providing comprehensive information, the ability to capture the attention of event-driven viewers through impactful storytelling and coverage of significant events can be a catalyst for expanding the reach and influence of news networks.

In conclusion, Roone Arledge's quote encapsulates the complex dynamics of audience engagement in the news industry and the strategic considerations that news organizations must navigate. By acknowledging the impact of event-driven viewership and contemplating the balance between retaining existing viewers and attracting new ones, news networks can adapt their approaches to better resonate with a diverse and evolving audience landscape. Embracing this challenge can ultimately contribute to a more robust and inclusive news ecosystem, where engaging storytelling and informative content cater to a wide spectrum of viewers, both habitual and event-driven.