premetime

Premetime is a broadcasting term that refers to the block of television or radio programming scheduled immediately before the start of the prime-time period. This transitional window is designed to bridge daytime and early-evening audiences with the network’s peak-viewing lineup.

Program blocks in premetime are typically composed of lower-cost or syndicated content, local news updates, talk shows, game shows, or reruns. The goal is to fill inventory efficiently, maintain audience flow, and prepare viewers for the more expensive, higher-rated programming that follows.

Regional variation is common. The exact hours labeled premetime vary by country and broadcaster, with some markets placing premetime in the late afternoon and others in the early evening. In some cases the block is referred to as early fringe or overlaps with nearby dayparts.

Premetime also carries economic importance. By filling time before prime time, networks can maximize advertising revenue and test new formats without risking prime-time ratings. Content decisions in this window are influenced by audience size, local market conditions, and sponsorship deals.

The concept emerged with the expansion of broadcast dayparts in the mid-20th century and remains a flexible scheduling option for both television and radio outlets.

See also daypart, prime time, fringe (television).