Having a strong cast of dancing celebrities has paid off. For the first time in the history of "Dancing With the Stars," the ABC show has outpaced Fox's "American Idol," pulling in stronger ratings last week.

According to The Associated Press, Nielsen announced Tuesday (April 6) that nearly 23 million people watched "Dancing" a week ago, compared to 21.8 million people watching "Idol" on Tuesday and 20.5 million on Wednesday.

The 2010 Cast Of 'Dancing With The Stars'

"Dancing" is likely benefiting from the [article id="1634429"]much-talked-about cast[/article] for its 10th season, including former "Baywatch" babe Pamela Anderson and Pussycat Dolls frontwoman Nicole Scherzinger.

Don Seaman, a communications analyst for MPG America, told the AP that the ratings can be attributed to a weaker batch of singers on "Idol" and a certain tabloid favorite signing up for "Dancing With the Stars."

"I chalk it up to the Gosselin effect," Seaman said, referring to Kate Gosselin, the mother of eight kids, who this week danced a [article id="1635484"]paso doble to Lady Gaga's "Paparazzi,"[/article] a song the reality star said speaks directly to her.

Fox noted the difference in the two shows' demographics: "Idol" has a firm grip on the 18- to 49-year-olds, while 60 percent of the "Dancing With the Stars" audience is 50 or older.

The wildly popular reality shows go head-to-head again Tuesday night (April 6), so we'll see who comes out on top.