Evening News Ratings: Diane Sawyer Debuts Solid For 'World News'

'NBC Nightly News' still tops during holiday-shortened week

By Alex Weprin -- Broadcasting & Cable, 12/29/2009 1:09:24 PM

Diane Sawyer's first week as anchor of ABC's World News gave a boost to the program, though it was still second to NBC Nightly News With Brian Williams, which also drew higher than average numbers.

In addition to being Sawyer's first week, the Christmas holiday meant that many potential viewers could be traveling or away from home. As such, Nielsen numbers are from Monday-Wednesday, which could account for the slightly inflated numbers on both programs.

World News drew an average of 8.56 million total viewers, including 2.27 million in the key 25-54 demo. While it was Sawyer's first week as anchor, it was not her first full week. She anchored the broadcast Monday-Thursday.

NBC Nightly News With Brian Williams drew 9.37 million total viewers, including 2.84 million 25-54. Williams anchored Monday-Wednesday.

The CBS Evening News With Katie Couric drew 6.16 million total viewers, including 1.83 million 25-54. Couric anchored the broadcast Monday-Wednesday.