Fox’s tweaks to the format of “American Idol” seem to be working for viewers, but the second week of its new season will determine whether the changes create lasting ratings momentum.
Its Jan. 13 debut drew an 11.7 rating/28 share in viewers 18-49 and drew 10.4 million viewers, according to live-plus-same-day numbers from Nielsen. Wednesday’s premiere scored an 11.8/30 in 18-49 and 30.3 million viewers.
The day-to-day ratings jump marked the first time since 2004 that “Idol” boosted its numbers in 18-49 from first to second night during a premiere week.
Fox’s Mike Darnell told TelevisionWeek last week, “People like [new judge] Kara [DioGuardi].”
“Idol’s” second week, however, may face some challenges.
Last year, first- to second-week ratings experienced dips. Among adults 18-49, the show saw week-to-week ratings declines of 15% on Tuesday and 14% on Wednesday; total viewers fell 12% and 11%, respectively.
This week, “Idol” competes with primetime coverage of the inauguration Tuesday and the season premiere of ABC’s “Lost” Wednesday.