All the controversy surrounding Isaiah Washington and T.R. Knight hasn't damaged Grey's Anatomy in its ratings assault, that's for sure.

Five episodes into Season 3, ABC's hit medical series has been defeating CSI in the coveted Thursday, 9 p.m. time slot. Grey's Anatomy is averaging 24 million viewers this season, up 31 percent from last fall.

Meanwhile, CSI, now behind with 22.6 million, is down 21 percent. Grey's Anatomy also leads by 3 million young-adult viewers, the highly coveted demographic by advertisers. It should be noted, however, that CSI remains one of prime time's most popular series in terms of total viewers.

The show's success since moving over to Thursday has exceeded expectations and even surprised the talented cast. Here, Meredith (Ellen Pompeo) is seen giving props to newcomer Mark (Eric Dane) for his role in the ratings climb. Just kidding.

Steve Marsi is the Managing Editor of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Google+ or email him here.