"American Idol" slips further in ratings
By James Hibberd
LOS ANGELES (Hollywood Reporter) - "American Idol" posted its lowest rating among adults 18-49 in five years Wednesday, continuing its seasonlong slide as it edges towards its grand finale next month.
The Fox talent show drew 22.6 million total viewers, and an 8.2 rating, 21 share among adults 18-49, a demographic coveted by advertisers. Last Wednesday's results show drew 23.3 million viewers.
Nevertheless, Fox easily won the night, also helped by the comedies "'Til Death" and "Back to You," which rebounded after taking a hit last week from ABC's Democratic presidential debate. Overall, Fox averaged 14.7 million viewers
NBC was second (10.8 million) with a two-hour "Deal or No Deal" (9.9 million) and a stronger-than-usual "Law & Order" (12.6 million) that featured the final performance of Jesse L. Martin.
CBS (7.8 million) and ABC (5.5 million) brought up the rear.
Reuters/Hollywood Reporter
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