According to overnight ratings released on Thursday, Wednesday night’s “American Idol” experienced its lowest adult demographic rating since 2003, placing behind ABC’s “Modern Family” for the first time in the ever-important 18-to-49 category.
“Idol” still won the night in total viewership, though, attracting 13.1 million viewers. “Modern Family” placed second in overall viewership with 10.59 million viewers, while CBS’ “Criminal Minds” placed third with 10.58 million.
In the 18-to-49 demo, “Modern Family” was the night’s winner with a 3.9 rating, while “American Idol” finished second with a 3.8 and CBS’ “Survivor” and “Criminal Minds” placed third with a 2.6 rating.
“Idol” did attract the most viewers on Wednesday night, but the show also experienced its lowest Wednesday-night viewing audience since it debuted in the summer of 2002.
TV experts have noted the “American Idol” viewing audience has been on the gradual decline for the past few years.
Personal Take
Somebody stick a fork in “American Idol.” It’s done.
When it comes down to it, there’s only so much that can be done with a singing reality show, although NBC has made a valiant effort to save the dying genre with “The Voice.”
With the additions of Mariah Carey – who doesn’t seem to realize that her attire is inappropriate for a family program – and Nicki Minaj, this season’s judging panel is the least likeable and most insufferable in the show’s history.
Aside from everybody’s favorite dawg, Randy Jackson, and the seemingly pleasant Keith Urban, this season’s panel lacks that certain appeal that viewers love to watch.
Often, Minaj’s comments come from left field and are difficult to follow. As the least credentialed member of the panel, Minaj’s feedback and advice carry a lot less weight than the others at the judges’ table.
Although she doesn’t come across as rude, Carey does seem aloof and disinterested at times.
So what exactly is Fox’s intent with “American Idol”? Is it a cash cow or a bona fide talent finding and producing competition show?
If the execs are keeping it on the air solely for its ratings and advertising revenue-generating value, then the industry respect the show once received is gone.
Wait. It’s already evident to this viewer that that respect is gone, given the fact its past few winners have not sold as many records as the show’s previous winners.
Whatever the reason “American Idol” continues air, the fact remains that it’s here for at least the next 12 weeks.
“American Idol” airs on Fox 13 at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays in Provo.
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