'Jersey Shore' ratings insanity continues

The latest record breaker: Thursday night's "Jersey Shore" is not only another series high performance in a string of series highs for the hit show ... it's also MTV's highest-rated telecast in the network's 12-34 demo in eight years.

All told, 6.5 million viewers tuned in, drawing a 3.3 adults 18-49 rating, topping everything on cable and broadcast.

Also on last night: CBS' "Big Brother" (6.5 million, 2.3), ABC's "Rookie Blue" (4.7 million, 1.1) and "Nightline Primetime" (3.6 million, 0.9)