Update 2: The premiere of FOX’s “The X-Files” drew 16.2 million total viewers.
Update: Because it actually aired from approximately 10:23PM-11:23PM, FOX’s “The X-Files” premiere cannot be properly measured by the daily fast national ratings.
One can, however, use those ratings to get a general sense of how the show performed.
Per fast national data, FOX averaged a 7.7 adults 18-49 rating and 20.63 million total viewers from 10-10:30PM (post-NFC Championship coverage and the beginning of “The X-Files”) and a 5.1 adults 18-49 rating and 13.470 million total viewers from 10:30-11PM (all “The X-Files”).
Due later this afternoon, a time-adjusted report will confirm exactly how “The X-Files” fared in its broadcast window.
Leading out of the more competitive and higher rated January 2014 NFC Championship game (Seahawks vs. 49ers), the season two premiere of FOX’s “The Following” posted a 4.4 and 11.18 million total viewers in the post-game slot.
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Limited by virtue of the game’s blowout nature, the NFC Championship still drew a massive audience Sunday night. That massive audience provided a strong boost for episode one of FOX’s returning “The X-Files.”
Per metered market data, “The X-Files” posted an 11.1 overnight household rating within the 10:15-11:15PM window. Due later this afternoon, the adults 18-49 and viewership numbers should also be strong.
The natural point of comparison will be to the second season premiere of FOX’s “The Following,” which drew a 4.4 adults 18-49 rating and 11.18 million total viewers after the 2014 NFC Championship game. While that game was far more competitive — and thus likely drew better numbers in the lead-in position — “The Following” did not possess the brand recognition of “The X-Files.”
— The 7-9:45PM portion of the Panthers-Cardinals game drew a 27.3 overnight household rating. FOX’s post-game show followed with a 20.5.
— Night two of FOX’s “The X Files” airs Monday at 8PM. That slot will serve as its regular timeslot for the remainder of the limited run.