‘The Walking Dead’ Breaks Ratings Records

AMC shattered the ratings record for basic cable with the premiere of the second season of “The Walking Dead.”  shattered basic cable ratings records. Based on the comic book series, the 90-minute episode of the zombiefest was watched by 7.3 million total viewers, making it the most watched show in basic cable history.

“The Walking Dead is one of those rare television programs that reaches both a core genre fan as well as broad audiences simply looking for a great, character-based story,” AMC president Charlie Collier said. “We’re so proud of and greatful for the amazing team on both sides of the camera who work so hard and is so committed to making this a unique programming event.”

“That The Walking Dead is now the most-watched drama in the history of basic cable is staggering, just like our zombies,” he added.

Combined with encore airings at 10:30 p.m. and 12:30 a.m., the premiere drew a total of 11 million viewers.