Fact Check: "60 Minutes is the most-watched news program in the United States."
What We Know
The claim that "60 Minutes" is the most-watched news program in the United States has been supported by various reports and statistics. According to a press release from CBS News, "60 Minutes" averaged 8.32 million viewers during the 2024-2025 season, marking its status as America's #1 news program for the 51st consecutive year (CBS News). This long-standing viewership record suggests that "60 Minutes" consistently outperforms other news programs in terms of audience size.
Additionally, the program has received accolades over the years, being described by The New York Times as "one of the most esteemed news magazines on American television" (Wikipedia). Such recognition reinforces its reputation and suggests a high level of trust and viewership among the American public.
Analysis
While the claim is backed by CBS's own statistics, it is important to consider the context and the potential for bias in the reporting. CBS News, as the network that airs "60 Minutes," has a vested interest in promoting the program's success. Therefore, while the numbers reported are factual, they may be presented in a way that emphasizes the program's superiority over competitors without providing a comprehensive view of the overall news program landscape.
For instance, Nielsen ratings, which are often used to gauge television viewership, can fluctuate based on various factors, including the time of year, competing programming, and special events. While "60 Minutes" has maintained a strong viewership, other news programs may also have significant audiences, particularly during major news events or breaking stories (Nielsen).
Moreover, the definition of "most-watched" can vary. If it refers strictly to traditional television viewership, "60 Minutes" may hold that title. However, with the rise of digital news platforms and streaming services, the landscape of news consumption is changing, which could affect how we interpret viewership statistics.
Conclusion
Verdict: Unverified
The claim that "60 Minutes" is the most-watched news program in the United States is supported by CBS's own statistics, which indicate it has been the top news program for over 50 years. However, the potential for bias in the reporting and the evolving nature of news consumption means that while the claim has merit, it cannot be definitively verified without considering broader context and alternative metrics of news viewership.
