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Unlikely Hit Is Now A&E’s No. 1 Telecast of All Time

Dec 7, 2012  •  Post A Comment

A show that almost no one would have predicted would be a hit is now one of cable’s biggest success stories in years, with its season finale becoming the most-watched telecast of all time for A&E.

The show is the reality hit “Duck Dynasty,” which follows a Louisiana family that has built an empire making duck calls. The series’ one-hour season finale, which aired Wednesday night, is the cable channel’s all-time top program in total viewers, adults 18-34, adults 18-49 and adults 25-54.

A&E said in a press release announcing the results: “An astounding 6.5 million viewers tuned in to the final premiere episode of 2012. The episode was also watched by an A&E record 3.9 million adults 18-49, 3.8 million adults 25-54 and 2.0 million adults 18-34, becoming the most-watched series telecast in network history among all key demos.”

Bob DeBitetto, president and general manager of A&E Network and BIO Channel, said in the statement: “‘Duck Dynasty’ represents the best of A&E’s unique brand of storytelling, showcasing authentic and engaging characters. It’s extremely gratifying to see more and more viewers flocking to the series week after week.”

Season two of the show grew by 139% over season one in total viewers, 141% in adults 18-34, 136% in adults 25-54 and 127% in adults 18-49, the network noted.

"Duck Dynasty" was the top show on television — including both cable and broadcast — on Wednesday night in prime time in adults 18-34 and adults 18-49.

An encore of the one-hour holiday episode is set for Saturday, Dec. 8, with new episodes on tap for early 2013.

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