11th ‘Survivor’ edition draws fewer votes

Is “Survivor” in trouble?

“Survivor: Guatemala,” the 11th edition of CBS’ popular reality series, opened Thursday to the lowest premiere ratings since the show first became a sensation back in the summer of 2000.

An average of 18.4 million viewers tuned in, according to Nielsen Media Research, making it the night’s most-watched show. But that was lower than last year’s premiere for “Survivor: Vanuatu” (19.1 million) and February’s opening of “Survivor: Palau” (23.7 million).

CBS spokesman Chris Ender said that the ratings must be put in perspective. President Bush’s live address delayed “Survivor’s” scheduled 8 p.m. start in the Mountain Time Zone, he said. Also, the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina has essentially knocked CBS’ New Orleans affiliate out of commission, Ender said.

“The continued ratings success of ‘Survivor’ defies gravity,” he said. “Show me another series in its 11th edition that draws 18.5 million viewers.”

-- Scott Collins