WWE SmackDown’s big shift from USA Network to FOX, moving from Tuesday basic cable to Friday “Top 4” Network, brought the Blue Brand 3.869 million viewers for its debut.
The number is bumped up to 3.999 million when you include FOX Deportes and streaming platforms.
This was up 84% from the final USA Network episode (2.099 million viewers), though it should be noted that FOX is a major network with more reach and availability.
Per Deadline, Friday Night SmackDown also led the night in the 18-49 demo, and finished second in total viewers to CBS, whose lineup of crime shows (Hawaii Five-O, Magnum P.I. Blue Bloods) pulled in more eyes, but from an older demographic.
Source: IGN.com SmackDown Ratings: Nearly 4 Million Viewers for FOX Debut