Where Duopolies Abound

[SOURCE: Broadcasting&Cable, AUTHOR: Allison Romano]
While most markets boast a duopoly or two, Kansas City has three -- a rarity under the FCC’s ownership limits. And the three dramatically alter the market’s programming and ad-sales landscape. Scripps owns NBC affiliate KSHB and independent KMCI. Hearst-Argyle, which owns ABC outlet KMBC, is operating UPN station KCWE while awaiting FCC approval to purchase it. In September, Meredith Broadcasting, owner of CBS affiliate KCTV, snagged the third duopoly by obtaining a “failing-station” waiver. The FCC granted Meredith permission to buy WB affiliate KSMO because it was underperforming in ratings and revenue; the FCC believed that new ownership could revive the station. In each duopoly, the stations share backoffice operations and some advertising functions, often selling packages that hit different demographics on the two stations. Scripps fashioned KMCI as a young-male­skewing indie station, with local sports and acquired comedies such as The Simpsons. Hearst-Argyle’s KMBC shares syndicated fare with sister KCWE, and the UPN station replays The Oprah Winfrey Show and Dr. Phil in prime time the same day they air on KMBC.
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