I have two really strong memories from 9/11. I recall being glued to the television for hours. I don't recall any commercials. I think any sponsor who had the nerve to interrupt the coverage to run a commercial would have lost customers rather than gaining any.
After hours and hours, I remember an interview between Peter Jennings and a psychologist, about the effect all the horrific images could be having on the viewers, and the lady actually recommended turning off the television. It’s funny, now… I can picture Peter Jennings’ bosses having apoplexy when they heard her say that… but at the time, I felt like she was talking directly to me. I turned the TV off and went for a walk.