The live TV special drew 18.5 million viewers, marking the biggest number of audience for any entertainment show on NBC this season.
- December 7, 2013
AceShowbiz -
"The Sound of Music Live!" was a big hit for NBC despite fans' protests on the casting choice and negative reviews from critics. According to Nielsen, the remake of the Broadway musical scored 18.5 million viewers, topping any programs in other big networks during the broadcast on Thursday night, December 5.
The three-hour special even beat out CBS' hit sitcom "The Big Bang Theory", which had always ranked first in overall viewers in the 8 P.M. slot since May 12, but finished second that night. The comedy series, however, still won over "Sound of Music Live!" in the 18-49 demo for the half-hour.
With almost 19 million viewers, the TV special starring Carrie Underwood became the most-watched entertainment show on NBC this season. It was also the biggest Thursday audience (excluding sports) for the Peacock since "Frasier" series finale in 2004.
In the coveted adults demo, the show posted a 4.6 rating, which was the best entertainment ratings for a Thursday night on the network since "ER" series finale in 2009.
Carrie Underwood, Stephen Moyer, Audra McDonald, Laura Benanti and Christian Borle starred in "Sound of Music Live!". Prior to the broadcast, Underwood revealed that she had received hate tweets regarding her casting as Maria.
