'Survivor' finale lowest rated in series' history

CBS' two-hour "Survivor" finale and reunion show ranked as the lowest in the reality series' history, continuing the run of series-low ratings drops that have plagued the broadcast networks this May sweep.

"Survivor" (13 million viewers, 4.4 preliminary adults 18 to 49 rating and a 12 share) was down 5% from last May's finale and the reunion special (10.8 million, 3.9/10) was down 13%. Nonetheless, the finale claimed the evening's No. 2 spot after ABC's "Desperate Housewives" (15.2 million, 5.5/14).

CBS edged out ABC in total viewers, but ABC won the night in the demo.

"Housewives" fell 13% from last week against the increased competition. Lead-in "Extreme Makeover" (11.9 million, 4.0/11) was on par, while the season finale of "Brothers & Sisters" was up 5% (11 million, 4.0/10) and edged out the "Survivor" reunion special to win the hour.