If TV Squad had a 30-second ad on NCIS, it would cost $133,304

So, let's say TV Squad wanted to have a 30-second ad on CBS' highest-rated show, NCIS. It would cost us $133,304. It would actually cost more, because we'd hire scantily-clad dancers, include a 35 pound bag of Doritios, fireworks in the shape of each writer, guest appearances from people like Tina Fey and JJ Abrams, and would have special effects because some of the commercial would be set in outer space for some reason, but I mean CBS would charge us $133,304.
To give you an idea of how that stacks up against other shows on CBS and shows on other networks, here's a quick list.
- Dancing with the Stars: $172, 570
- Glee: $127,250
- Dollhouse: $56,370
- 30 Rock: $159,674
- Grey's Anatomy: $240,462
- The Vampire Diaries: $38,966
Of course, what night the show airs on factors into this. For example, you can get an ad on The Jay Leno Show on a Friday for $48,803. But if you want one on a Wednesday, it will cost you $62,012. Because Jay is funnier on Wednesdays.
Ad Age has the full list. I bet you can't guess what the most expensive show is.

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