Ratings: The Big Bang Theory beats American Idol easily on Thursday, Idol down 39%

Update: The Big Bang Theory up to 5.3, American Idol up to 4.5

The Big Bang Theory was the #1 show last night with a 5.2 adult rating beating American Idol which had a 4.4 adult rating - one of it's lowest rated shows ever - down 39% from last season.

OMG I think American Idol is dead. I am so angry at Nigel Lythgoe right now. His arrogance and hubris triggered this. At least be competitive. But to go from a 7.4 premiere this season to a 4.4 in just ONE MONTH is a total disaster.

I want to cry. It's over.

The rest of the numbers:

From TVbytheNumbers:

CBS and Fox tied for top honors with adults 18-49. But The Big Bang Theory drew a 5.2 adults 18-49 rating (up a tenth from last week) comfortably besting American Idol's 4.0 rating for the common half hour. For the full hour, American Idol drew a 4.4 adults 18-49 rating, down 14% from last week and down an alarming 39% versus the year ago Thursday night telecast. American Idol will likely be adjusted up a tenth or two, but that won't make up for the week over week drop, let alone the year over year plummet.

CBS's Person Of Interest was up three tenths vs. last week to a 3.1 adults 18-49 rating and for the first time this season tied with ABC's Grey's Anatomy.