'This Is Us' And 'Bull' Continue Strong Premiere For Networks; 'Scream Queens' Still Voiceless

Starting with "Bull," CBS saw its newest drama not only match lead-in "NCIS" in the demo, but built on it by a small percentage. "Bull" snared 15.5 million viewers and pulled a 18–49 demo rating of a 2.2. "Bull" also served a solid lead-in for the relocated "NCIS: New Orleans," which like its mothership, did drop year-to-year. Still compared to average draw of the now-cancelled "Limitless," it's a night-and-day comparison.

Related Link: CBS, NBC Start Season Strong With "Kevin Can Wait" And "The Good Place"

Over on NBC, "The Voice" did its job and gave new series "This Is Us," the boost executives were hoping for. While not debuting to the same number as "Bull" in viewers, it catapulted over its fellow newbie in the demo. "Us" bowed to 10 million viewers and did a 2.8 in the demo.

That marks NBC's highest-rated scripted program in that slot in over six years, though it is very important to note that slot belongs to "Chicago Fire" and after next week, the men and women of Firehouse 51 are taking back their territory.

Analysts won't truly know how "This Is Us" will do in the long run for another few weeks. Still, that's biggest drama debut for any series among the big broadcasters since "Supergirl" last season.

Lastly, Twenty-First Century Fox Inc FOXA's decision to just re-arrange the deck chairs around a sinking show continued to take a hit as the return of "Scream Queens" slipped 41 percent from last season's equally disappointing bow.

"Queens" did a 1.0 in the demo and snagged just 2.2 million viewers. Many remember "Scream Queens" was the reason Fox ultimately decided to ditch reporting official L+SD numbers since the show proved to be a delayed viewing gainer. However, if these numbers continue it unlikely Fox can continue this horror dramedy experiment.

Full ratings data available on Benzinga Pro.