'American Idol' judge Paula Abdul

NEW YORK (CNN/Money) - An ABC documentary titled "Fallen Idol" -- which chronicled an alleged affair between "American Idol" judge Paula Abdul and a 2003 contestant -- has ranked as the most watched newsmagazine episode in over a year.

The program, which aired on ABC's "Primetime Live", ranked as the highest-rated newsmagazine broadcast on any network in the coveted 18-34 year old demographic as well as the 18-49 year old range, according to Nielsen Media Research data provided by ABC.

The hit episode comes at a crucial time for Walt Disney Co's (Research) ABC.

The networks are in the middle of their ratings sweeps period and will begin selling advertising in mid-May for the fall season.

"American Idol" is broadcast on rival network Fox.

In the news broadcast, 2003 Idol contestant Corey Clark said Abdul coached him on song selections and his career, helped him buy clothes, and initiated a sexual relationship.

In addition to Clark's testimony, Primetime cited phone records and an answering machine message as evidence.

Abdul has denied all the accusations and Clark said he will not help Fox with the investigation. Fox also noted that Clark had an upcoming book to promote.

After reaching the final 12 contestants, Clark was kicked off the show for failing to reveal a prior arrest record.

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