In 2009 the NBC show Chuck was in the prime time rotation but was struggling with maintaining a large audience. After two seasons NBC was planning on pulling the plug on the show. The show had a faithful following by a small group and they took to the internet pleading to keep the show going. According to NBC executives the reason they brought Chuck back for a 3rd season was because of an advertising partnership with Subway. Subway was excited about the opportunity because it help expand there advertising. What was attractive to them was Chuck's audience was mostly young viewers so if Subway and Chuck joined forces it would be a mutually beneficial relationship. The show was able to go 5 seasons and it was because Subway decided to advertise in their show.
http://mediadecoder.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/05/19/upfronts-chuck-takes-the-subway/
What do you think product placements role is in television?
