On Thursday, I posted some criticism MSNBC’s Scarborough Country for drifting into tabloid fare. But perhaps we shouldn’t judge a show until the ratings come out. Rita Cosby subbed for Joe Scarborough (in her old 9pm time slot) last week, and Country was #1 in the demo Thursday night.

MSNBC peaked from 9:30 to 9:45pm, when Cosby talked to the guys from American Chopper. The second highest rated quarter hour came from 9:45 to 10pm, when Cosby covered a shark attack and some Tori Spelling gossip.

Also, among live programming, the show was #2 on Wednesday, right behind Countdown. (Monday and Tuesday’s numbers were considerably lower.)

The week of July 17 was also notable. A tipster said Scarborough Country “was #2 among MSNBC live shows last week in the key 25-54 demo.” He added: The fact is, the stories Joe’s recently been doing are helping the numbers…”

> Tonight: Tucker Carlson guest-hosts at 9pm…