In a surprising twist, the hit show Yellowstone has managed to make a mark in the year 2023, despite only airing a single episode. The highly anticipated season 5, episode 8, titled 'A Knife and No Coin,' hit screens on January 1st. Little did the fans know that they would have to endure an agonizing wait for the rest of the season, as various complications and delays plagued the production.
However, a recent report by Variety has revealed that Yellowstone's lone episode of 2023 has found its way onto the list of the year's 100 most-watched telecasts. Now that's impressive! Especially when you consider that the majority of the top spots were dominated by sports events, with Super Bowl LVII taking the coveted first place.
Yellowstone's episode muscled its way to the 51st spot, capturing the attention of approximately 11,474,000 viewers. While the show faced formidable competition, its inclusion on the list is nothing short of remarkable. Other non-sports inclusions like the Oscars, Grammys, Prince Harry's 60 Minutes episode, and several episodes of popular dramas like NCIS and Blue Bloods also made the cut.
What makes Yellowstone's achievement even more exceptional is the fact that it had only one opportunity to make its mark in 2023. With a release date at the beginning of the year, there was plenty of time for other shows to overshadow it. Yet, against all odds, it held its ground. In fact, Yellowstone's episode came in at second place for narrative television, just behind Fire Country's season 1, episode 12, titled 'Two Pink Lines,' which secured the 43rd spot with a viewership of 12,225,000.
But Yellowstone's success story doesn't end there. Despite the hardships faced during its production hiatus, the show has managed to maintain momentum throughout the year. CBS made the wise decision to air reruns of the first season to compensate for the gaps in the release schedule due to the writers' and actors' strikes. And boy, did that pay off! The reruns drew in millions of viewers, reaffirming the show's popularity as it took audiences on a thrilling journey once again.
While this data provides a glimmer of hope for Yellowstone as it heads into the back half of its final season, it's important to note that the solitary episode's high viewership came from the very beginning of 2023. However, the success of the Yellowstone reruns on CBS suggests that when the series finally returns in 2024, there won't be a significant dip in viewership. If anything, the anticipation will only amplify the excitement for more heart-pounding drama and stunning landscapes.
For those unfamiliar with the show, Yellowstone revolves around the life of John Dutton, portrayed by the legendary Kevin Costner. Dutton and his family reside on a sprawling cattle ranch near Yellowstone National Park, which serves as the backdrop for their struggles. They contend against threats posed by an Indian reservation and land developers, adding layers of complexity to their already challenging lives. From medical issues to political aspirations and family secrets, the Duttons face an uphill battle to protect their home and their legacy.
As we eagerly await the arrival of Yellowstone's season 5 part 2, let's take a moment to appreciate the show's resilience and the unwavering support of its passionate fanbase. Despite the behind-the-scenes drama, delays, and strikes, Yellowstone has managed to capture the hearts and attention of viewers, solidifying its position as one of the most beloved and talked-about television dramas of recent times.
