In the best showing for a series premiere in over five years across any network, the new Fox (NWS-A) show "Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?" was able to hold onto 95 percent of its lead-in from "American Idol." They finished with a 10.8, down slightly from "Idols" 11.4 in 18-49 demo on Wednesday.
That let the show be seen by approximately 23.4 million viewers for the night. They'll also be shown tonight and next Thursday on "Idol' as well; from there it will stand on its own and will be shown for an hour. It's first two nights were half-hour episodes.
Starting on March 15, they'll face their real test as they go up against strong competitors in ABC's "Ugly Betty" and CBS' "Survivor."
With being given a chance for fans to get a good look at it, and Jeff Foxworthy's own core fan base, the show is being given every chance to be an ongoing hit.
Fox has already said it will extend the show by four episodes.
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