The Downside To Poker On TV In 2007

In 2006 we awarded a Best New Show Poky, and a runner up in that category as well. In 2007 we couldn't even find one deserving new show. The fact is, it was a down year for poker on TV. Certainly, the economics of poker on TV must take part of the blame: ratings have declined since 2004, the government's opposition to online gambling has been felt, and the online poker rooms that fund shows pursued faster-growing markets overseas. Quality could still have improved, however, but it didn't. There were no more live broadcasts in 2007. Cash games haven't become more common (one appeared briefly, but is gone). Made for TV, and even "reality," poker shows continue to proliferate instead of real poker. ESPN is still creating poker shows for people who aren't interested in poker. High Stakes Poker still doesn't show all the hole cards. I hope that American TV executives or poker producers see the light and start producing better poker shows. If not, hopefully the vibrant European scene will lead the way.