Most-Watched TV Shows in US History
Nearly six decades later, the Apollo 11 moon landing still reigns as the most-watched television program of all time. Across all networks, over 150 million people tuned in to witness humans land on the moon. No other television program in U.S. history has come close to this record.
Super Bowl LVIII holds the second-place spot, attracting over 123 million viewers for the Kansas City Chiefs’ third title in five years. Impressively, 18 Super Bowls rank among the top 25 most-watched television programs in history. These record holders span from 1986 to 2023, demonstrating the enduring popularity of the Super Bowl. Over the years, 12 Super Bowls have surpassed 100 million viewers.
Currently, entering the top 25 requires over 92 million viewers, a challenging benchmark for television broadcasts to achieve. Consequently, it’s highly probable that more Super Bowls will claim spots on this list as time progresses.
Other notable entries in the top 25 include former President Nixon’s resignation, the O.J. Simpson police chase, and the M*A*S*H series finale. The complete list of the 25 most-watched television programs is detailed below.
The Apollo 11 Moon Landing in 1969 captivated over 150 million viewers, solidifying its position as the most-watched TV event in US history.
Super Bowl LVIII drew a massive audience of 123.4 million viewers on CBS, as the Kansas City Chiefs secured their second consecutive Super Bowl championship. The game solidified the Super Bowl’s position as a perennial ratings giant.
Super Bowl XLIX, where the New England Patriots narrowly defeated the Seattle Seahawks 28-24, captivated 114.4 million viewers on NBC in 2015. The thrilling game solidified its place among the most watched television broadcasts of all time.
Super Bowl LVI, with the Los Angeles Rams’ 23-20 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, attracted a substantial viewership of 112.3 million on NBC. The game highlighted the continuing appeal of the Super Bowl to a massive audience.
President Richard Nixon’s resignation speech, broadcast from the Oval Office on August 8, 1974, drew a staggering 110 million viewers, making it the 10th most-watched television program in history.
Michael Jackson’s mesmerizing Super Bowl Halftime performance in 1993 captivated 102 million viewers on NBC, showcasing the global superstar’s immense popularity and the power of live television events.
Roots Part VIII, airing in 1977, garnered an audience of 100 million viewers on ABC, demonstrating the cultural impact and historical significance of the groundbreaking miniseries. It remains a landmark television event.
The infamous O.J. Simpson police chase, broadcast across multiple networks in 1994, captivated 95 million viewers, becoming the 22nd most-watched television program in U.S. history. The event transfixed the nation.
