According to new data from McLaughlin & Associates national poll of 1,000 likely voters: 75% agree with the statement, “When I watch live sports or entertainment shows on television I am trying to get away from politics and do not want to be bombarded with partisan political messages.”

44% said they have been less likely to watch live sports and entertainment shows because they have become too political.

Media Research Center President Brent Bozell commented on the poll, “Many people have speculated that it is the liberal politics in sports and entertainment shows that is driving their audiences away. We now have evidence that proves this is true. 75% of likely voters agree that political commentary should be left out of entertainment and sports TV.”

“It is no coincidence that viewership of this year’s Oscars ceremony hit an all-time-low. The NFL and liberal sports networks like ESPN are completely at odds with their viewers’ interests and their ratings reflect it. Perhaps the sports and entertainment industries will finally heed this warning before Americans tune out for good.”

The poll results show about half (47%) of the respondents who did NOT watch the Oscars this year said their reason for not watching the show was EITHER “I’m tired of these shows being full of political statements” or “I would have watched but knew some of the presenters and winners would use the time to share their political agenda.”

MRCTV is a division of the Media Research Center.