For the first time ever, NBC’s “This Is Us” beat FOX’s “Empire” in the live+3 ratings.
Citing L+3 data, NBC says last Tuesday’s “This Is Us” drew a 4.2 adults 18-49 rating. “Empire” posted a 4.0 adults 18-49 rating on a live+3 basis.
The “This Is Us” demo rating also ties a series high. The L+3 viewership sum of 14.5 million represents a new series high.
While NBC can use the live+3 data to claim “This Is Us” was the week’s #1 broadcast drama in adults 18-49, FOX’s “Empire” can still claim that honor from a live+same-day standpoint. Wednesday’s “Empire” drew a 2.9 live+same-day rating, while “This Is Us” drew a 2.7.
“This Is Us” may, however, have a shot at the live+same-day distinction this week. It airs its fall finale this Tuesday; “Empire” does not air its fall finale until next week.