The Big Bang Theory got a big guest star as it dipped slightly in the ratings, though not enough to fall from the top show of the night and Elementary surged in viewership over recent weeks.

CBS took its normal spot atop Thursday night with 11.3 million viewers and a 2.6 rating in the key 18-49 demographic. The Big Bang Theory slipped slightly in the ratings, but still managed the night's best with a 5.1 in the demo. The Millers also did well at a 2.8 rating and The Crazy Ones ticked downwards slightly to a 1.9 in the demo. Two and a Half Men also slipped to a 1.9 rating, while Elementary took in its highest audience since the premiere with 10.16 million viewers, but remained even in the demo with a 2.0.

Fox did acceptable on the night with 8.27 million viewers and a 2.2 in the demo. American Idol slipped slightly, but still managed a strong 3.1 rating. Freshmen show Rake's future is already dimming as the show slipped to a 1.3 rating in its second outing.

NBC came in third with consistent performances from its comedies, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The network averaged a 1.6 in the demo and 4.2 million viewers. Community was steady at a 1.1 rating in the 18-49 demo as was Parks and Recreation with a 1.2 in the demo. Saturday Night Live special Sports All-Stars managed a strong 1.8 in the demo for NBC, which was an improvement from Thursday night's normal 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. offerings.

ABC pulled in 3.6 million viewers and a 1.0 in the demo off the back of cooking competition The Taste.

The CW managed 2 million viewers and a 0.8 in the demo as The Vampire Diaries slipped slightly to a 1.2 in the demo. Reign improved from last week with a 0.7 rating.

image: CBS