Ratings up for cable networks

Led by strong ratings for the Sci Fi Channel’s miniseries, “Taken,” ad-supported cable networks are drawing more viewers this month than their broadcast network rivals, Variety reports. Collectively, 2.5 million more homes tuned to the cable networks than the seven broadcast networks during the week ended Dec. 22.

But cable’s gains come during a season when its broadcast rivals are serving primarily a diet of leftovers. Broadcasters served their most toothsome fare -- lots of specials and fresh series episodes -- during the November sweeps period, when ratings determine how much they can charge for advertising over the subsequent four months. In December come the reruns.

-- Mike Boehm