Ratings: ‘Law & Order: SVU’ rises in return; ‘Code Black’ improves; ‘Star’ declines

While there was no new programming on The CW last night, otherwise Wednesday may have been one of the more active nights of the season so far. There was new programming across the board, and there’s a lot of good stuff worth discussing.

NBC – Let’s start with what is to us probably the biggest positive news, and that is the success of “Law & Order: SVU” for its first episode in almost two months. “Next Chapter” drew a 1.5 rating in the 18-49 demographic, which is tied for the best rating the show’s received since late September. As of right now this season is down only 6% year-to-year, a very small decrease by TV standards; a big reason for the show’s longevity is by and large its ability to continue retaining viewers.

Meanwhile, elsewhere on the network “Blindspot” (1.1) held most of its number from the midseason finale, and “Chicago PD” (1.5) had some good and bad news. While this was a drop from Tuesday’s crossover event, it is otherwise the show’s best rating also since late September.

CBS – With “Undercover Boss” (1.2) starting the night, “Criminal Minds” (1.3) held reasonably steady while “Code Black” (1.0) improved versus its last outing, when it didn’t have as much of a lead-in.

Fox – The second episode of “Star” drew 1.6 rating, down 25% from when the show aired following “Empire” late last year. This still isn’t terrible, and if this rating holds, the show will almost certainly be renewed. “Lethal Weapon,” meanwhile, held onto a 1.4, and we’re feeling very positive about its future.

ABC – Finally, let’s talk comedy. “The Goldbergs” (1.9), “Speechless” (1.7), “Modern Family” (2.3, winner of the night), and “black-ish” (1.7) all improved versus recent outings. The premiere of “Match Game” in a new timeslot drew a 1.3, which isn’t bad for a show that, beyond the cast, probably doesn’t cost that much to make.

Photo: NBC