TV show The First 48 - Essay Example

This paper aims at gathering statistics of the number of homicides cases in New York City, United States. The First 48 Hours is an American documentary television series on A&E. This series has been filmed in various parts of the United States, and it offers an insight into the real –life of homicide investigators. The series often track the investigations to the end, and it focuses on the first forty-eight hours hence the title. In each of the episodes, there is one or more homicide in the diverse cities, which shows how investigators use witness evidence, forensic evidence, and other investigation skills to get the suspect.

Most cases are solved in 48 hrs while others take the time to get solved. The First 48 was selected as the best distinguished documentary by the International Documentary Association but later lost to American Experience. In season 6, The First 48 was the highest rated factual Justice series on the television, and it gained important applause along with criticism. The purpose of this television show is to air the number of crimes that are happening in the New York City. Statics shows that the First 48 Hours is one the most watched documentary with approximately 30 percent of the total television viewers.

People are interested in this show to know the homicide is happening in the city and know the suspects. Nielsen Ratings are used to determine the size and composition of the audience watching a particular television show in United States. A Nielsen rating has become the primary source of measuring the audience watching a television show (Turnbull, 2005). The size of the audience who watch the series The First 48 Hours has been determined through Nielsen ratings. Nielsen ratings are gathered using two ways: Viewer diaries, where a target audience self-records the viewing habits.

By aiming at different demographics, the collected statistical models provide a representation of the audience of the television