Nielsen has provided the federal court in Florida with more allegations about ratings tampering involving Bubba the Love Sponge.
Many questions come to mind about the ramifications of something like this, whether or not the allegations turn out to be true.
While Todd Clem admitted he contacted one PPM panelist in an effort to boost his ratings and apologized, in its lawsuit, Nielsen alleges it happened several times over a period of weeks.
Clem’s attorney has not responded to our request for comment on the latest allegations.
Asked by RBR+TVBR if the allegations turn out to be true, does Bubba still have a career after the legal matter is resolved, Fletcher Heal Partner Frank Montero says that depends. “Never say never, but any actions that could cast into doubt the legitimacy of ratings or expose the station owner to liability are not good and could kill a broadcasting career.” He notes this has happened with on-air folks accused of accepting payola bribes. But Montero stresses the outcome depends on the individual circumstances and says other personalities have survived payola or obscenity charges “by virtue of strength of their audience following.”
Bubba’s syndicated show originates on Beasley-owned WBRN(FM), Tampa. In fact, Nielsen notes in its most recent court filing the owner changed the calls of that station this February to reflect Bubba’s presence.
Beasley has been careful to say that Bubba is a contract employee, and not a Beasley employee.
Asked whether Beasley would have any responsibility going forward, Montero told RBR+TVBR the fact that Beasley’s WBRN was de-listed from two PPM monthly ratings reports “is a consequence that will impact the station owner.”
“Beasley was quick to announce that this was done without their knowledge,” according to Montero, who adds: “No station owner would want to be associated with such activity, if it really occurred.”
Future responsibility (on the part of Beasley) would depend on the specific terms of its contract with Nielsen, according to Montero.
Beasley had no comment on Nielsen’s latest allegations. The company did confirm Bubba’s show remained live on the air as of Tuesday.
