US TV
The two-hour season six opener averaged 15.7 million viewers for Fox from 8pm, with a 6.1/14 score in 18-49. It was down slightly on the 16.3 million for the season five debut in 2006, however, although that had the benefit of a football lead-in.
Indeed, the ratings come despite over-running football coverage on CBS on the East Coast, with the AFC playoff game between New England and San Diego drawing an estimated 35 million viewers.
24 actually built its audience in the second hour, up against Desperate Housewives on ABC. The continuing drama managed just 16.7 million at 9pm, ranking as the show's lowest score ever for a first-run episode.
Elsewhere, The Apprentice: Los Angeles - also in the 9pm hour - dropped off significantly from its premiere numbers to just 7.3 million and a 2.8/6 in 18-49. ABC's Brothers & Sisters continued admirably at 10 with 12.5 million and a slot-winning 4.8/12 score in 18-49.
Tube Talk
'Vampire Diaries', 'House' Tube Talk Q&ATube Talk answers your questions about all things television in this week's Q&A.
2012-13 Season
Dania Ramirez joins 'Devious Maids'Dania Ramirez joins a pilot from the creator of Desperate Housewives.
US TV Interviews
Debby Ryan talks Disney's 'Jessie'The Suite Life's Debby Ryan stars in new Disney Channel comedy Jessie.
US TV Ratings
'Cougar Town' returns to ABC with 4.8mAll five major networks were down on Valentine's Day, with ABC suffering the most.
