Update: When viewing the early overnight metered market numbers, it is important to remember that they do not perfectly reflect how the show will perform in adults 18-49.
The premiere of “The Michael J. Fox Show” provides another example. Though it looked good based on the overnights–a 5.3 metered market number from 9-10–its old skew meant a disappointing performance in adults 18-49.
Early data shows that “Fox” garnered a mere 2.1 in that column. While still better than “Parks,” it is a far cry from what was expected given the hype for Michael J. Fox’s return to television.
It also meant a sizable loss to CBS’ new entry “The Crazy Ones,” which posted a 4.0.
“Michael J Fox” averaged 7.3 million viewers.
==================
When it comes to total viewership, NBC’s series premiere of “The Michael J. Fox Show” was swallowed by CBS’ 9PM block of “The Crazy Ones” and “Two and a Half Men.”
But NBC’s comedy, which features the long-awaited television return of the titular actor, still performed admirably Thursday, building on its “Parks and Recreation” lead-in and outperforming last year’s timeslot occupant.
According to TV Media Insights, the hourlong “Fox” premiere averaged a 5.3 overnight metered market ratings. The 9PM segment, which averaged a 5.4, grew by 69% from last year’s comparable telecast of “The Office.”
It might not skew as youthfully as NBC’s recent comedy staples, but that overnight number should definitely translate to a solid showing in adults 18-49.
“Parks and Recreation,” which aired for the entire 8PM hour, drew a paltry 2.6 metered market number, while the season premiere of relocated “Parenthood” was good for a 3.4 at 10PM.
Moving forward, “Welcome to the Family” will occupy the 8:30PM slot (leading out of “Parks”), while “Sean Saves the World” will take over the 9PM slot and bump “Fox” to 9:30.
