Fox picks up 'Fringe' for full season

Fox has picked up a full season order of J.J. Abrams' sci-fi thriller "Fringe."

The network ordered the back nine episodes of the Tuesday night drama, a move that should come as no surprise to those following its performance in the Nielsens.

After a solid two-hour premiere on Aug. 26, the show jumped significantly in week two when paired with Fox's top-rated drama "House." Both shows took a hit when competition increased during broadcast premiere week, then grew slightly last night -- demonstrating stability.

Season-to-date, "Fringe" has averaged a 4.2 rating/11 share among adults 18-49 and 10.7 million total viewers. It ranks as the top freshman series in the adult demo.

"We're thrilled to get the full-season order," Abrams says. "As with many new series, 'Fringe' is just starting to find its groove. Knowing we'll be around beyond the first thirteen episodes means we'll get to realize the full potential of the show, and for that we are extremely grateful."

"Fringe" joins "90210" as the only fall freshman broadcast series to receive a full order.

Another likely contender for a full order is CBS' drama "The Mentalist," whose second episode grew in the nationals this afternoon to exceed its premiere. One more week at the current level should be enough to seal the deal.