In recent weeks, AEW Dynamite has frequently experienced overruns, even after the end of its second hour. One overrun lasted as long as 34 minutes. However, these extended segments have come under criticism from fans.
Sean Ross Sapp addressed a fan’s question regarding the overruns in the latest edition of Fightful Select Answers Q&A. The fan inquired whether the overruns would cease after the All In event, noting that they have negatively impacted recent ratings without generating any additional excitement for the Wembley Stadium show. Additionally, they have caused issues for viewers trying to record the show via DVR.
Sapp explained that the overruns benefit AEW’s broadcast partner, Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), by providing the network with 30 extra minutes of free content. AEW sources have informed Fightful that these overruns do not count toward the official “hours” that AEW is obligated to deliver to WBD as part of their media partnership.
Sapp also pointed out that the overruns satisfy WBD, giving AEW no reason to stop using this format—especially in hopes of securing WBD’s approval to exercise AEW’s fourth-year option under their ongoing media rights agreement. This is reportedly a top priority for AEW at the moment.
