Season Premiere of ‘The Walking Dead’ Draws 16 Million Viewers!

Briefly: Remember last year when The Walking Dead‘s third season premiere drew in a record number of viewers?

Last night’s premiere has blown that record out of the water. Seriously. Season three premiered to 10.9 million viewers, while season four’s opener drew in a whopping 16.1 million people.

AMC states that “The Walking Dead returned last night for its fourth season, delivering the highest ratings of any episode in series history. The season four premiere was watched by 16.1 million total viewers and 10.4 million adults aged 18-49. Last night’s ratings confirm The Walking Dead continues to be the #1 show on all of television among the coveted 18-49 demographic. 2013/14 season to date, last night’s premiere ranks as the #1 telecast in adults 18-49, outperforming all programs including primetime NFL football. With time-shifted playback, last night’s premiere should exceed 20 million viewers.”

AMC President Charlie Collier continues, “Sincere thanks to the fans, who have welcomed The Walking Dead back for its fourth season with the highest-rated episode in the show’s history. We could not be more proud of this show and everyone on both sides of the camera who work so hard to give life to this story of character, leadership and survival. It starts with series creator, writer and executive producer Robert Kirkman, show runner and executive producer Scott Gimple and the director of last night’s episode (and the man behind the make-up) executive producer Greg Nicotero, their fellow executive producers and an extraordinary cast and crew who are giving their all every day. So clearly, thanks to them, the dead have never been more alive.”

Those are some pretty insane numbers, huh? Did you watch last night’s episode? I have no idea when I’ll find the time to check it out, but be sure to let us know your thoughts!