Record-Breaking ‘Yellowstone’ Is No. 1 Show On Television Right Now

by Haley Strack for The Federalist

Paramount Network’s hit western drama “Yellowstone” has surpassed viewing records for any show currently on television, earning three spots on the Digital Entertainment Group’s list of top 20 most-watched. “Yellowstone” earned the list’s second, 11th, and 19th spots. The modern-day ranch show is the No. 1 series on television right now, including broadcast and cable.

More than 14 million viewers tuned in to “Yellowstone’s” season four premiere on Sunday, the most-watched premiere on cable since a 2017 episode of AMC’s “The Walking Dead.” The show gained popularity for its non-polarizing message, focusing on rural America and small-business USA instead of divisive political affiliations.

“Over 14 million viewers tuned in for our ‘Yellowstone’ premiere, which will now serve as a massive launch pad as we sneak episodes of Taylor Sheridan’s new series ‘Mayor of Kingstown,’ whose full season will be rolling out exclusively on Paramount Plus starting Sunday,” said CEO of MTV Entertainment Group Chris McCarthy. “Taylor has created a cinematic experience that our remarkable cast led by Kevin Costner brings to life in a way audiences can’t get enough of and we are excited to deepen our relationship with him and capitalize on this tremendous momentum by building out the ‘Yellowstone’ franchise together.”

The four-season show is only available on cable television. According to Philo’s streaming insights, “Yellowstone” attracted audiences near Montana (where the show is filmed), Wyoming, and agriculturally-based cities. Since its 2018 premiere, the show has drawn a groundbreaking audience.

The show stars Oscar winner Kevin Costner who plays a Reagan-era Republican, as well as Kelly Reilly, Cole Hauser, Luke Grimes, Wes Bentley, and Kelsey Asbille, and was created by John Linson and Taylor Sheridan.