The Evolution of Sports Viewership and Fan Dynamics

This chapter explores the dramatic changes in American television viewership from the late 1980s to 2023, emphasizing the rise of sports programming. It delves into the complexities of fan loyalty amidst rising ticket prices and team relocations, using the Green Bay Packers as a case study of fan ownership and dedication. Additionally, it examines the psychological nuances of sports fandom, including coping mechanisms, superstitions, and the intersection of rationality and emotion in the realm of sports.