The Day Of The Doctor Is The UK's Most Watched Drama This Year




The 50th anniversary special of Doctor Who, The Day Of The Doctor has become the most watched drama of 2013 across all UK TV channels. The special, starring Matt Smith, David Tennant and John Hurt as three incarnations of the Doctor, aired on BBC One on November 23rd as part of the biggest ever international simulcast. 

According to figures released today, the episode recorded a live UK audience of 10.2 million (37% audience share) on BBC One on Saturday 23 November, with a further 2.6m watching via PVR and catch-up services, delivering a consolidated TV audience of 12.8m (41%).

The previous holder of the no. 1 top drama position was the November 10th series climax of Downton Abbey which totalled a consolidated audience of 12.2m (41%) for ITV.

The Day of The Doctor is the third best-performing episode of Doctor Who since its 2005 revival, behind its 2007 and 2008 Christmas specials, both of which also starred David Tennant. The figure does not take into account iPlayer views or the cinema audience. Cinemas across the country ran multiple sold out screenings on the Saturday night and subsequent catch up screenings which brought in £1.8m in box office takings over three days.

BBC Drama controller Ben Stephenson said: "The Doctor Who 50th was a hugely ambitious event on the BBC and it's only fitting that it has taken the top spot as the highest rating drama across all channels this year. It's a fantastic tribute to both Steven Moffat and the creativity of all those involved in the show throughout its history. Next stop, the regeneration at Christmas!"




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