David Muir’s ‘World News Tonight’ Scores Rare Ratings Win, Tightens Grip in Fierce Battle for Top Newscast

In a fiercely competitive media landscape where nightly news programs are battling for every viewer, ABC’s World News Tonight with David Muir has achieved a rare and significant ratings victory. For the week of May 16, the program secured the No. 1 spot in total viewers, overtaking NBC’s Nightly News with Lester Holt—a win that hasn’t occurred in three months.

The milestone is more than just a numbers game. It’s a symbolic triumph for ABC News and for David Muir, the steady anchor who has become a mainstay in millions of American households each evening.

A Win in a Tight Race

According to Nielsen data, World News Tonight pulled in an average of 7.93 million viewers during the week of May 16, edging out Nightly News’s 7.83 million. CBS’ Evening News with Scott Pelley trailed in third place with 6.71 million viewers.

It may seem like a small margin, but in the world of nightly news—a realm where even a tenth of a ratings point can make or break a network’s confidence—it’s a notable shift in momentum.

“We are humbled to be part of the tightest race in nearly a decade,” said executive producer Almin Karamehmedovic in a statement to TheWrap. “David and the team remain focused on the viewers and the reporting every single night.”

Muir’s Influence at the Helm

Since taking over World News Tonight in 2014, David Muir has led with a signature blend of gravitas and emotional intelligence. Known for his calm, authoritative delivery and on-the-ground field reporting, Muir has earned the trust of viewers through some of the most turbulent news cycles in recent memory.

Whether reporting from hurricane-ravaged cities, war zones, or presidential debates, Muir brings a grounded, empathetic tone to the anchor desk. His appeal bridges demographics and political divides—a rare feat in today’s hyper-polarized media climate.

“People trust David,” said a senior ABC News producer who asked not to be named. “He shows up night after night and delivers the truth with compassion and clarity.”

The Return of Appointment Viewing

While streaming platforms dominate the entertainment space, the nightly news still holds a unique place for viewers seeking a trusted source of information at the end of their day. The recent ratings boost for World News Tonight suggests that even in the digital age, there is still demand for traditional broadcast journalism—especially when delivered with consistency and credibility.

Industry analysts note that ABC’s recent gains may also be driven by a stronger emphasis on international reporting, exclusive interviews, and an efficient, viewer-focused format that adapts well across linear and digital platforms.

“ABC’s strength has been in not just chasing headlines but giving context,” said TV media analyst Rachel Zinder. “Muir’s reporting style connects with people who want clarity without the noise.”

Network Strategy Pays Off

Behind the scenes, ABC News has made strategic investments in both its newsgathering operations and digital expansion. From streaming original segments on ABC News Live to pushing timely clips across social platforms, the network is targeting viewers wherever they consume news.

Still, the core of the success remains at the anchor desk.

“It always comes back to the person who’s delivering the story,” said a former ABC executive. “Muir has earned the role not just as a journalist, but as a trusted voice of calm during chaos.”

Looking Ahead in a Shifting Landscape

Though ABC has reason to celebrate this ratings win, network insiders are cautious about declaring long-term dominance. The nightly news race is known for its fluidity, with viewership habits often swayed by breaking news, national crises, or exclusive scoops.

NBC’s Lester Holt remains a formidable figure with a loyal viewership, and CBS continues to innovate its evening format in an attempt to reclaim lost ground.

But for now, World News Tonight and David Muir are firmly in the spotlight—and they’re not taking it for granted.

“We measure our success not just in numbers, but in trust,” Muir said in a brief statement following the ratings release. “We’re grateful to our viewers for allowing us into their homes and their lives. That’s what matters most.”

The Bottom Line

In a time when media trust is under constant scrutiny and attention is harder than ever to earn, David Muir’s victory at the top of the nightly news rankings is more than a temporary spike—it’s a reminder that trusted journalism still matters.

As the race tightens and the stakes rise, World News Tonight has shown it can not only compete—but win.