MacGyver Debuts To 11-Year Ratings High In Time Slot

It seems CBS has another hit on its hands, courtesy of their anticipated MacGyver reboot starring Lucas Till in the title role.

The premiere episode debuted on Friday and drew 10.9 million total viewers with a 1.7 in the demo (via TV Line). That easily surpasses the previous owner of MacGyver's timeslot, The Amazing Race, which a year ago brought in 5.8 million viewers and held a 1.2 in the demo. In fact, that performance gave CBS an 11 year high for audience turnout in that leadoff spot, which was held previously by The Ghost Whisperer. It also gave the network it's highest demo numbers ever since Undercover Boss took top honors 4 years ago.

That's impressive, but it will be interesting to see how much of the audience stays around for the second and third episodes. MacGyver also beat out Fox's reboot of Lethal Weapon, which still impressed with 7.9 million and a 2.2 in the demo.

A reimagining of the classic series, is an action-adventure drama about 20-something Angus "Mac" MacGyver, who creates the Department of External Services (DXS), a clandestine organization within the U.S. government where he uses his extraordinary talent for unconventional problem-solving and vast scientific knowledge to save lives. Joining his team on high-risk missions around the globe is maverick former CIA agent Jack Dalton; Patricia Thornton, an ex-field agent turned director of operations; and Riley Davis, an unpredictable computer hacker with a chip on her shoulder. At home, MacGyver is entertained by his ambitious roommate, Wilt Bozer. Under the aegis of the Department of External Services, MacGyver takes on the responsibility of saving the world, armed to the teeth with resourcefulness and little more than bubble gum and a paper clip.

MacGyver airs on Fridays on CBS.