Brian Williams-less ‘Nightly News’ Widens Viewers Lead, Loses Demo

Over a month into Williams’ suspension, “Nightly News” draws more than 8.5 million viewers for biggest viewers lead in six weeks

A month into Brian Williams‘ suspension, “Nightly News” with substitute anchor Lester Holt grew its lead in total viewers for the week of March 16th over ABC’s “World News Tonight” to its largest margin of victory in six weeks.

Nightly attracted 8,518,000 viewers vs. 7,957,000 viewers for ABC’s “World News Tonight” with David Muir— a 561,000 viewer advantage.

Muir’s broadcast narrowly edged Nightly in the advertising-coveted 25-54 demo by 6,000 viewers; 1,941,000 vs. 1,935,000. It was the second week in a row ABC won the demo.

CBS’ Evening News with Scott Pelley ranked third with 6,930,000 viewers and 1,538,000 demo viewers.

Filling in for the suspended Williams since beginning of February, Host has maintained Nightly News’ edge in total viewers, albeit a controversial victory two weeks ago.

Williams made his first public appearance since his suspension Saturday at a fundraiser for his old prep school.

Comments