China: Average daily TV watching time rises by 22.7% in Q1

Data shows that each household on average spent half an hour more on watching TV daily during the COVID-19 pandemic. /VCG

The average daily television-watching time of Chinese viewers increased by 22.7 percent in the first quarter this year over the previous quarter, according to the audience rating statistics among about 140 million cable TV and online TV viewers in China released by the National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA).

It also shows that each household on average spent half an hour more watching TV daily during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Average daily television-watching time of Chinese viewers increases by 22.7 percent in the first quarter. /VCG

Though it observed diversified domestic dramas made debuts in the past three months, reality-themed TV series enjoyed overwhelmingly popularity among Chinese audiences, said the NRTA.

Among the most popular dramas are "I Will Find You a Better Home" – a 53-episode TV series depicting a realistic story in China's property market, and "Wait in Beijing," which focuses on the enterprising young generation fighting their dreams in the capital city, following the ups and downs of their careers.

Posters for several hit dramas in the first quarter.

Realistic dramas focusing on some of the most concerning issues not only resonated with the viewers, but also helped ease their anxieties during the current coronavirus crisis, according to an official with the NRTA.

"TV dramas that are based on real-life stories are certainly dominating prime-time slots as this year will see the completion of the building of a moderately prosperous society in all respects and the victory in the battle against poverty," said the official.

The first quarter also witnessed documentaries gain increasing popularity with higher ratings than average.

A poster for the documentary series "Aerial China Season 2"

There are 15 documentary series whose ratings exceeded one percent, including "Aerial China Season 2," "Mysterious Land" and "Traditional Chinese Medicine in the Combat of Epidemic."

A total of 21 TV shows, such as variety show "Happy Camp," which has been running for 23 years, the new season of the popular "Singer" series "Singer 2020: Year of the Hits," and "Top Funny Comedian Season 6," saw their ratings surpass 0.5 percent each.

Chinese variety shows explore new ways of production amid COVID-19 outbreak