‘The Big Bang Theory’ leads May sweeps finales
Two finales tower over the TV landscape as the 2018-19 season rolls to its official conclusion.
“Game of Thrones” offers its series finale May 19, and we’ll learn the winner of the Iron Throne. “The Big Bang Theory” bids farewell with an hour-long episode May 16.
As a CBS series, “Big Bang” is part of the broadcast ritual known as May sweeps, a ratings period that runs Thursday through May 22. You know the routine: Get ready for more special reports from local TV stations.
Other victors will be named on reality contests. “Survivor” concludes its 38th season with three hours May 15 on CBS. As of this writing, Orlando attorney Aurora McCreary is still competing.
“American Idol” announces its champion May 19 on ABC. Orlando singer Alyssa Raghu has made it to the Top 8 and competes this Sunday on Queen Night. Adam Lambert mentors the hopefuls.
“The Voice” is down to the Top 24 this Monday on NBC, and the field includes Central Florida singers Mari (of Adam Levine’s team) and Selkii (of Blake Shelton’s team). That contest’s winner will be named May 21.
“Voice” coach Kelly Clarkson hosts the Billboard Music Awards May 1 on NBC. Madonna, Mariah Carey and BTS will perform. ABC goes big with the NFL Draft in prime time Thursday and Friday.
In scripted drama Thursday, “Gotham” presents its series finale on Fox, and “Supernatural” wraps up its 14th season on The CW.
“Blue Bloods” concludes its ninth season with the Jamie-Eddie wedding May 10 on CBS. NBC’s three “Chicago” dramas — “Med,” “Fire” and “P.D.” — finish their seasons May 22.
Dramatic season finales from Fox: “The Resident” May 6, “Empire” May 8 and “9-1-1” May 13. From The CW: “Arrow” May 13, “The Flash” May 14 and “Riverdale” May 15. “Grey’s Anatomy” calls it a season May 16 on ABC.
The CBS season finales include freshman hit “FBI” on May 14, “Hawaii Five-0” on May 17, “NCIS: Los Angeles” on May 19, and “NCIS” and “NCIS: New Orleans” on May 21.
In comedy, “Big Bang” is the biggest news as TV’s most-watched sitcom. As for returning comedies on CBS, “Mom” wraps up May 9 and “Young Sheldon” goes May 16. On Fox, “Last Man Standing” finishes its season May 10, followed by “The Simpsons” and “Family Guy” May 12.
ABC’s “Modern Family” delivers its season finale May 8; it will be back for an 11th and final season. The broadcast networks unveil their fall lineups in midMay.