Crime really does pay, according to the latest ratings for the world’s popular TV shows from Eurodata TV Worldwide. “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” has again topped the list with the highest world ratings in 2007. “CSI,” which takes place in Las Vegas, drew 83.9 million viewers beating its sister show “CSI: Miami” and hospital drama “House” as the world’s most popular TV drama series.

(That’s Jerry Bruckheimer in the picture at left. His company produces the “CSI” shows.)

In the comedy category, “Desperate Housewives” attracted 61.5 million viewers, beating “Monk” and “Ugly Betty,” according to the ratings which take in viewers in 51 countries.

“The Bold and The Beautiful” with 26.2 million viewers worldwide in 2007 was the most popular soap, against two Mexican telenovelas “Destilando Amor” and “Marina.”

The same three programs came top of Eurodata’s list for the most popular TV shows in 2006.