Meaning: The quote you provided is from Sharon Gless, an American actress known for her role in the television series "Cagney & Lacey." In this quote, Gless is discussing the discrepancy in how television viewership is evaluated by sponsors and networks. She mentions Angela, presumably another television personality or show, who had significantly more viewers than another program airing at the same time. Despite Angela's higher viewership, Gless laments that sponsors only seem to care about the demographic composition of the audience rather than the sheer number of viewers.

Gless's quote sheds light on the complex dynamics that drive decision-making in the television industry. It reflects the ongoing tension between quantity and quality in terms of viewership. The industry often values the demographic profile of the audience over the total number of viewers, as advertisers are primarily interested in reaching specific consumer segments. This emphasis on demographics, particularly younger viewers, can overshadow the achievements of programs that attract a larger but potentially older audience.

Gless's frustration highlights the challenges faced by television programs and personalities in navigating the demands of sponsors and networks. The pressure to cater to specific demographics can influence content and programming decisions, potentially impacting the diversity and variety of offerings available to viewers. Furthermore, this focus on specific demographics can create a competitive environment where programs with substantial overall viewership may still struggle to secure advertising support if they do not align with the desired audience profile.

The quote also raises broader questions about the metrics used to assess the success and impact of television content. While viewership numbers provide a basic measure of a program's reach, the emphasis on particular demographics can overshadow the broader appeal and influence of certain shows. Additionally, this approach can reinforce stereotypes about which audiences are considered most valuable, potentially marginalizing viewers who fall outside the desired demographic categories.

Furthermore, Gless's observation underscores the evolving nature of television viewership and the challenges of adapting to shifting audience preferences and consumption habits. As the media landscape continues to fragment with the rise of streaming services and digital platforms, traditional measures of viewership and audience demographics may require reevaluation. The increasing diversity of viewing options and the ability to access content on-demand further complicate the assessment of a program's success solely based on live viewership and demographic composition.

In conclusion, Sharon Gless's quote provides a thought-provoking commentary on the complexities of television viewership and the priorities of sponsors and networks. It prompts reflection on the balance between quantity and quality of viewership, the influence of demographic considerations on programming decisions, and the evolving nature of audience measurement in a changing media landscape. Ultimately, it serves as a reminder of the multifaceted factors that shape the television industry and the ongoing challenges faced by content creators and personalities in navigating this dynamic environment.