With weaker-than-usual competition on other networks, CBS’ “How I Met Your Mother,” “Two and a Half Men” and “The Big Bang Theory” all posted season high marks in total viewers.
“How I Met Your Mother” kicked things off with a solid 3.7 adults 18-49 rating and 9.6 million viewers. The acclaimed comedy led into “Accidentally on Purpose” (8.8 million, 3.2). “Two and a Half Men” (16.4 million, 5.2) and “The Big Bang Theory” (15.6 million, 5.6) dominated at 9PM, while “CSI: Miami” was on top at 10PM with 14.2 million viewers and a 4.1.
NBC saw less success with the premiere of its “The Sing-Off.” Though not terrible, the two-hour premiere was underwhelming with a 2.3 rating and 6.9 million viewers. “The Jay Leno Show” led out with 4.8 million viewers and a 1.5.
Yet that was not the worst story of the night. ABC struggled as Jennifer Hudson’s special proved unable to match last week’s Carrie Underwood show on FOX; “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” posted an abysmal 1.2 rating with 5.6 million viewers. “Find My Family” was also weak with a 1.3 and 5.4 million viewers.
FOX’s “Lie to Me” was good for an unimpressive 2.2 with 6.6 million viewers, while the first night of The CW’s “Vampire Diaries” repeat marathon averaged 1.5 million viewers with a .7 in adults 18-49.