Fox has picked up a second season of its medical mystery drama “House.” The show, which stars Hugh Laurie as mercurial physician, premiered to modest numbers and generally good reviews in November, but has gained ratings traction as a lead-out to “American Idol.”

During the February sweeps ratings period, “House” was no. 1 in its Tuesday 9 p.m. (ET) time period among adults 18 to 49, adults 18 to 34, teens and total viewers, according to Nielsen Media Research.

“House” is produced by Heel and Toe Films and Bad Hat Harry Productions in association with NBC Universal Television Studio. The series was created by David Shore. Mr. Shore, Paul Attanasio, Katie Jacobs and Bryan Singer are executive producers.