CBS’ critically-panned new drama “Three Rivers” opened Sunday to underwhelming ratings, putting up numbers that were soft in comparison to both its lead-in and the timeslot occupant last year.
The show opened to 9.2 million viewers and a low 2.0 in adults 18-49. Other CBS shows for the night included “60 Minutes” (12.9 million viewers, 2.3), “Amazing Race” (9.9 million, 2.8) and “Cold Case” (9.7 million, 2.2).
ABC, meanwhile, got some good news as its lineup was generally up from last week’s disappointing opening. “America’s Funniest Home Videos” kicked things off with 8.8 million viewers and a 2.2 rating. “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” was up to 11.7 million with a 3.4, while “Desperate Housewives” moved upwards to 14.3 million viewers and a 4.9. “Brothers & Sisters” closed the network down with 9.6 million viewers and a 3.2 adults 18-49 rating.
Though most of FOX’s numbers were down, the network’s animated lineup kept its momentum in adults 18-49. “The Simpsons” (9.3 million, 4.3) led into week two of “The Cleveland Show” (8.7 million, 4.2), which was down an expected 14%. “Family Guy” continued its demographic strength with 9.7 million viewers and a 4.9, while “American Dad” wrapped things up with 7.1 million viewers and a 3.5.
As it is football season, NBC predictably won the night with Sunday Night Football. The Chargers vs. Steelers game drew 15 million viewers and a 6.2 demo rating.