House Improves Rating Post-Idol

House continues to build a strong foundation for Fox after the Tuesday edition of “American Idol,” delivering its strongest ratings ever in viewers and the coveted adults 18-49 demographic. The medical drama averaged 22.6 million viewers and a 9.2 rating/33 share among adults 18-49, according to preliminary data released Wednesday by Nielsen Media Research.

That is the show’s highest not only in the demo but also in total viewers and other key measures. And it’s also the highest retention for a post-”Idol” show in Fox history. And of course, “Idol” was the night’s top show in the demo and total viewers. The talent show averaged 28 million viewers and an 11.2/31 in the demo. “Idol” is up 13% in the demo compared to the same week last year.