Doctor Who 50th is the Most Watched Drama in 2013

The BBC has announced viewing figures for The Day of the Doctor – the full press release reads:

The 50th anniversary special of Doctor Who has topped the chart as the most watched drama in 2013, as confirmed by consolidated figures released today.

12.8 million have now watched ‘The Day of the Doctor’ since its premier on 23 November, with an additional 2.9 million requests so far on iPlayer. The one off special is the most requested programme ever on iPlayer in 24 hours with 1.27 million requests, beating the Olympic opening ceremony, and is also the most tweeted about drama ever generating 442,692 tweets.

Starring Matt Smith, David Tennant and Jenna Coleman with Billie Piper and John Hurt, the 75 minute BBC Cymru Wales produced special was seen on BBC One by 10.2 million overnight, with a peak of 10.6 million.

Writer and Executive Producer, Steven Moffat, said: “A stellar rating for the Doctor’s birthday. And since it doesn’t include online catch-up, or indeed the rest of the world, it’s only the end of part one!”

The episode was also shown in 834 cinemas around the world and now holds the record for the largest worldwide TV drama simulcast, airing in 94 countries across 6 continents.

Ben Stephenson, Controller of BBC Drama, added: “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!”

Notes to editors:

The drama generated 442,692 tweets with the conversation peaking at 12,939 tweets per minute during the opening moments of the broadcast – these stats are measured for the half an hour before, duration and for the half an hour after the programme airs.

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