NBC's Original Fare Get Ratings Boost While The Games Slip

After years of trying to use the Olympics to boosts its new shows, Comcast's CMCSA NBC switched gears this time around and focused solely on its established series. Based on early returns, it looks like the new strategy paid off.

Sophomore comedy "Superstore" pulled in 10.9 million viewers and a 3.3 demo in the 18-49 category last Friday night. Those numbers were a new high topping its premiere of 7.2 million and a 2.2 demo which came following its debut post "The Voice."

Related Link: Why Olympic TV Ratings Were So Poor And What NBC Got Wrong In Rio

The reality juggernaut also was teased during the Rio Games as the series ran a condensed sneak preview episode introducing new coaches Miley Cyrus and Alicia Keys. The special episode aired last Saturday night to 10.4 million viewers and a demo rating of 2.7.

Overall, the Olympics ratings themselves were down for NBC, including Sunday's closing ceremonies which pulled in 16.9 million total viewers and a 4.0 demo. By comparison, that's 45 percent and 57 percent (respectively) than the 2012 London games.