The Viola Davis-led murder mystery series ‘How To Get Away With Murder’ was at one time ABC’s highest rated series. Premiering to a whopping 14 million in late 2014, the critically acclaimed show garnered much buzz among industry insiders and television viewers alike for its suspenseful and ever-twisting storyline. But, just as its home network tightened its grip on dominating Thursday nights, it appears the series was losing grip on its once-thought-to-be strong viewer base.
And, while season 2 premiered to a commendable 8.4 million, its finale sang a much different tune. Drawing in 5.29 million, the noticeable dip in ratings made some fans worry ABC was ready to kill ‘Murder’ from its Thursday night lineup.
If they were worried then, season 3’s premiere – which aired last night (September 22) – will do little to ease those fears:
Viewers = 5.113 Million
“Thursday’s season three “HTGAWM” premiere drew a 1.4 adults 18-49 and 5.11 million total viewers. The numbers [are down compared to] those of the season two premiere by 46% and 39%, respectively.
The numbers are, however, roughly on par with the 1.4 adults 18-49 rating and 5.29 million viewer mark garnered by the second season finale.
“HTGAWM” did not receive any help from context. In addition to competition from a strong football game, the episode faced competition from new timeslot rival “The Blacklist” (“HTGAWM” narrowly beat the show in adults 18-49, but it is hard to ignore the potential impact) and weakened lead-in support.”