Update: The series premiere of FOX’s “Red Band Society” drew an unimpressive 1.3 adults 18-49 rating with 4.04 million viewers.
While its “Hell’s Kitchen” lead-in was not strong (1.4 rating, 3.89 million viewers), its performance is far below the realm of something that should be celebrated.
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FOX’s hopes of launching a new drama hit this fall now rest on the shoulders of “Gracepoint” and “Gotham.”
“Red Band Society,” based on Wednesday’s overnight ratings, is not going to be that big hit.
The series premiere drew a soft 2.9 overnight household rating. While the number is not low enough to rule out the possibility that “Red Band” drew a passable number in the adults 18-49 demographic, it does confirm that overall interest in the series was unremarkable.
“Red Band” did not receive strong household lead-in support (“Hell’s Kitchen” drew the same 2.9 in the 8PM hour), but it benefited from not facing a full suite of competition. Knowledge that “Red Band” will soon face competition from shows like ABC’s “Modern Family” and CBS’ “Criminal Minds” should not inspire confidence about its ability to retain the entirety of this week’s premiere audience.
Fast national data, which will reveal the show’s adults 18-49 rating and total viewership, is due by 11:30AM.