The sharks are circling back for more. ABC has renewed its entrepreneurial reality series, “Shark Tank,” for a 17th season. The investment deals, hopeful pitches, and occasional clashes of personality will continue, giving a new batch of entrepreneurs a chance to chase their American dream.
As the 20-episode 16th season wraps up next week, the renewal comes as welcome news, despite Friday night ratings averaging slightly lower than the previous season (0.27 in the 18-49 demographic and 2.82 million viewers).
“Shark Tank” offers regular people the opportunity to present their business ideas to a panel of self-made tycoons, hoping to secure investment deals. The core group of “sharks” – Barbara Corcoran, Mark Cuban, Lori Greiner, Robert Herjavec, Daymond John, Kevin O’Leary, and Daniel Lubetzky – are mainstays of the show. Season 16 also featured guest investors, such as Todd Graves, Jamie Kern Lima, Rashaun Williams, and Kendra Scott.
Even with a minor ratings dip, “Shark Tank” holds its place as a key part of ABC’s unscripted lineup. It joins other renewed shows like “American Idol,” “America’s Funniest Home Videos,” “Celebrity Jeopardy!,” and “Celebrity Wheel of Fortune” on the network’s schedule.
