US TV
Fast national data from Nielsen Media Research puts the show at a 16.2 rating/24 share during the 8pm hour on FOX, posting a clear lead over second-placed NBC, where The Apprentice managed a 7.8/12. (One ratings point represents 1,067,000 households, or one percent of the USA television universe of 106.7m TV-equipped households. The share is the percentage of in-use televisions in a universe tuned to a particular show or channel.)
The episode in fact scored the highest ratings for the show so far this season. The premiere episode on Monday weighed in at 15.5/23, while Tuesday's episode scored the same. One reason as to why Wednesday's episode may have scored higher is that pictures released in advance showed Simon Cowell being drenched with a cup of water by an irate contestant.
Viewers in the UK can begin watching American Idol 3 starting tonight (Friday) on ITV2.
More: US TV, American Idol
Tube Talk
'Simpsons' ultimate countdown (15-11)The countdown of the greatest Simpsons episodes continues.
2012-13 Season
Susanna Thompson joins 'Arrow' pilotSusanna Thompson signs up for a role in The CW's superhero drama pilot Arrow.
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
Grammy Awards most-watched since 1984The 54th Grammy Awards is seen by over 40 million viewers for the CBS network.
