• Forbes.com, Wednesday, November 5, 2008 10:15 AM

Last night, MSNBC, Fox News and CNN all aired the big finale to the most-watched serial drama on their networks. But unlike other series, this one won't be back for another four years. So what now for the networks that have fared so well during the presidential election?

According to Nielsen Media Research, all three major cable news networks posted collective gains of 49% over last year. That's added up to big advertising dollars, as well. Research firm SNL Kagan expects Fox News' net advertising revenue will round out the year at $539 million, up 17% year over year. At MSNBC and CNN, net ad revenue will rise 12% and 10% to $154 million and $477 million, respectively.

"It will be difficult, if not impossible, to continue the media momentum to the degree that cable news networks have enjoyed in this historic election cycle," says John Rash, director of media analysis at advertising agency Campbell Mithun.

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