Nielsen to America: This is You

WHO WATCHES? 'Samantha' Applegate

Earlier this week, marketing info company Nielsen released a year-end look at "the most popular trends among Americans," or a quick recap of what Americans are buying and watching—and how marketers might be able take better advantage of that in 2008.

There were some unique discoveries: People in Austin, Texas, home of SXSW, blog the most; American Idol is a really popular show; Google is the top website! But, there were also some surprises. Chiefly, this: Salt Lake City is the top market for avid moviegoers, and the top market for DVD purchasers. But, if we think about it in the most stereotypical, possibly offensive to Mitt Romney terms, it makes sense. Salt Lake City is, of course, filled with Mormons. And, if you couldn't booze, eat chocolate, caffeinate, or have unmarried sex, well, I guess you'd be watching a hell of a lot of movies in your special underwear, too.

Also surprising, Samantha Who? ranks above House in the Top 10 TV Programs.