‘Secret Life’ Has Stellar Return for ABC Family

By Sergio Ibarra

The return of ABC Family’s “Secret Life of the American Teenager” debuted Monday with the network’s best delivery in total viewers, adults 18-49, adults 18-34 and viewers 12-34 in its history.

“Teenager” drew 4.4 million total viewers during its 8-9 p.m. telecast. The show drew 1.9 million viewers ages 18-49, 1.2 million viewers ages 18-34 and 2.8 million viewers ages 12-34.

The cable program scored more viewers than a broadcast show aimed at teenagers and young women, The CW’s “Gossip Girl.” During the same time period, “Teenager” had 47% more total viewers (4.4 million vs. 3.0 million), 6% more viewers 18-49 (1.9 million vs. 1.8 million), 10% more female viewers 18-34 (966,00 vs. 881,000) and 71% more viewers 12-34 (2.8 million vs. 1.6 million).

“Teenager” also ranked as the top show in all of cable for the day among various demographic groups, including women 18-34, women 18-49, viewers 12-34 and female viewers 12-34. The show was the No. 1 scripted telecast on cable for the day among total viewers, adults 18-34 and adults 18-49.