Ratings Review: PRIME SUSPECT

PRIME SUSPECT was supposed to be the drama that helped bring back MUST SEE TV to NBC. The results couldn't have been any further off from that expectation.

 This was one of the most hyped shows, over the summer of 2011. NBC had a tough actress for the lead. PRIME SUSPECT was a hit for the BBC, and Thursday nights should deliver a big audience. When only 6 million viewers watched the premiere episode, NBC knew they would be in trouble. By Halloween, the viewership had dwindled down to just 4 million viewers and the 18-49 demographic ratings were in the low ones.

NBC halted production and cancelled the series. The did air the remaining produced episodes, but this was a huge defeat for NBC. This was to be the next LA LAW or ER, not just another failed drama. 

Thursdays, 10:00pm (NBC)

Date       Viewers(M)    A18-49
----------------------------------------------
09.22.11      6.05        1.8  (Series Premiere)
09.29.11      5.69        1.5
10.06.11      5.04        1.5 
10.13.11      4.60        1.3
10.20.11      2.84        0.8 (R)
10.27.11      4.03        1.1
11.03.11      4.51        1.2
11.10.11      4.86        1.3
11.17.11      4.34        1.1
11.25.11      Preempted by Special
12.01.11      4.69        1.3
12.08.11      Preempted by GRIMM
12.15.11      3.70        0.9
12.22.11      4.44        1.0
12.29.11      Preempted by Comedies

01.22.12      4.31        0.8 (Sunday 9:00pm)
01.22.12      3.65        0.7 (Sunday 10:00pm