2025-26 Season Ratings for New TV Shows (Week 37)

Key Takeaways

• ABC's '9‑1‑1: Nashville' leads network's new series ratings
• CBS's 'America’s Culinary Cup' ranks lowest among new shows
• Demo ratings drive ad pricing more than total viewership
• Week 37 data suggests 30% of new series may face cancellation
• Networks rely on live‑plus‑same‑day numbers to gauge advertiser value

Pulse Analysis

Week 37 of the 2025‑26 television season provides the first comprehensive snapshot of how fresh network series are resonating with audiences. The ratings, compiled from live‑plus‑same‑day viewing, are the industry standard because they capture the moments when commercials air, the primary revenue driver for broadcasters. By breaking down performance by network—ABC, CBS, The CW, FOX and NBC—the report highlights standout performers like "9‑1‑1: Nashville" and underperformers such as "America’s Culinary Cup," giving stakeholders a clear view of the competitive landscape.

For advertisers, the demo rating is king. Younger demographics, though smaller in total viewership, command higher ad rates due to their fragmented media consumption habits. Consequently, a show’s success is measured less by raw audience size and more by its ability to deliver desirable demo impressions. Networks use these metrics to set price points for commercial inventory, and a dip in demo performance can quickly erode a series’ profitability, prompting early cancellation talks.

Looking ahead, the week 37 figures serve as an early barometer for renewal decisions. Historically, roughly a third of new series fail to secure a second season, and the current data aligns with that trend. Executives will monitor week‑by‑week shifts, especially in the coveted 18‑49 demo, to decide which shows merit continued investment. For advertisers and investors, staying attuned to these ratings trends is essential for optimizing spend and forecasting network earnings.