Though a drop was inevitable given the role curiosity played in the premiere rating, ABC was undoubtedly hoping “V” could avoid a sizable second week tumble. It did not.
While the week two “V” rating–10.7 million viewers and a 3.7 adults 18-49 rating–was strong by any realistic measurement, it represented a decline of nearly 30% from last week’s bow. The drop was enough to allow “NCIS” (20.2 million, 4.2) to reclaim the 8PM hour and hastily nix the notion that “V” would breakout as a legitimate ratings powerhouse.
The “V” decline was undoubtedly the most newsworthy ratings story Tuesday–most shows were within typical territory for the night. If looking for disappointment outside of the ABC sci-fi series, one would need to look at The CW’s “Melrose Place,” which returned to its series low 0.7 adults 18-49 rating. With just 1.3 million viewers, the show is at its bottom as it prepares for Heather Locklear’s return to the franchise next Tuesday.