TV ratings: ‘Survivor’ rises in early numbers, ‘American Idol’ falls

“American Idol” posted a weekly ratings decline Wednesday, according to early numbers from Nielsen. Still, Fox held off CBS to win Wednesday night in the key viewing demographic.

The veteran singing competition drew an average of 10.1 million viewers and a rating of 2.4 among 18-to-49-year-old viewers, the category most cherished by advertisers. That’s a drop of 11% from last week’s score in the coveted age group.

CBS won the night in overall viewership with an average audience of 10.2 million.

CBS’ “Survivor” delivered 9.9 million viewers and a 2.5 rating in 18-49, rising slightly for the second week in a row as it continued to challenge “American Idol.” Early numbers were probably boosted by college basketball on CBS affiliate stations, but “Survivor” could beat “Idol” in viewers and the key demo if the ratings hold.

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“Criminal Minds” was Wednesday’s most-watched show with 10.7 million people, and it was down week-to-week by 12% to a 2.3 in the demo. “CSI” surged 18% from its last episode to a 2.0.

In the 18-49 demographic, a ratings point equals about 1.3 million viewers.

ABC’s “Modern Family” was again the highest-rated show in the demo with a 3.3, though it was down slightly from last week. “Suburgatory” (1.4) the new “Mixology” (1.5) and “Nashville” (1.4) all had declines, and the 8 p.m. comedy “The Middle” (1.9) was flat.

On NBC, “Revolution” and “Law & Order: SVU” held steady this week at a 1.3 and 1.6, respectively. The spinoff “Chicago P.D.” continued its gains, this time notching an increase of 7% to a 1.6.

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ryan.faughnder@latimes.com

Twitter: @rfaughnder