Most eyes continue to be on the Eye Network, as TVLine’s latest review of ratings for the 2024-25 TV season shows CBS claiming as many as eight of the Top 10 most-watched programs. Per updated ratings data (through April 6), the Justin Hartley-led Tracker still stands as the most-watched entertainment program of the broadcast TV season — and with a slightly larger audience than it averaged in Season 1. Tracker also remains the highest-rated broadcast drama (in 18-49).
As the season races toward its dramatic conclusion, three shows have stolen the spotlight — Tracker, Matlock, and FBI. If you’ve been anywhere near a TV (or Twitter/X), chances are you’ve heard the buzz. But why are these network dramas suddenly outperforming streaming juggernauts and climbing to the top of the ratings? Let’s break it down — not with boring stats, but with a juicy, human-first breakdown of what makes these shows click with audiences right now. Buckle up, because this is more than just a TV review — it’s a deep dive into the cultural pulse of what we’re all watching.
Remember when everyone said broadcast TV was dying? Yeah, not so fast. Shows like FBI, Tracker, and the rebooted Matlock are proving that strong storytelling, relatable characters, and a weekly dose of suspense still pack a punch.
CBS also has two freshman hits on its hands: Matlock stands as the season’s most-watched new series, while Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage is TV’s most-watched comedy. Matlock and ABC’s High Potential and Shifting Gears (which didn’t quite make the Top 25 this time around) have all improved their respective time slots — which is what new shows are hoped to do!
▶ With a much stronger lead-in, CBS’ Elsbeth is drawing a few more eyeballs in Season 2.
▶ Tracker’s gain appears to be The Equalizer‘s loss, as Queen Latifah’s yet-to-be-renewed, potentially spinoff-spawning action drama is now drawing markedly fewer viewers in its later (and then much later) Sunday time slot.
▶ Fox’s most-watched entertainment program is the freshman medical drama Doc, which would rank somewhere around No. 37 (with 4.6 million viewers). The cancelled 9-1-1: Lone Star lands at No. 40 with 4.3 million viewers. The CW’s most-watched programs are WWE NXT (averaging 792,000 viewers) and the cancelled Superman & Lois (767K).
In a world overflowing with streaming content, Tracker, Matlock, and FBI remind us that great storytelling never goes out of style. Whether you’re watching live or catching up online, these shows are redefining what it means to be “must-see TV.” And as they head into the final stretch, they’re not just holding on — they’re winning.
