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About 65 million people across the U.S. tuned in to the two NFL matchups on Christmas Day, which Netflix had exclusive rights to show. According to Nielsen, the Baltimore Ravens’ win over the Houston Texans averaged 24.3 million viewers, while the Kansas City Chiefs’ win over the Pittsburgh Steelers averaged 24.1 million.
American audiences for the Ravens vs. Texans game peaked during Beyoncé’s halftime show, with more than 27 million viewers tuning in to watch the star-studded performance.
“Bringing our members this record-breaking day of two NFL games was the best Christmas gift we could have given,” Netflix Chief Content Officer Bella Bajaria said in a press release. “We are grateful for our partnership with the NFL, all of our amazing on-air talent, and let’s please not forget the electrifying Beyoncé and the stunning Mariah Carey.”
Wednesday’s games were first. Three-year deal between NFL and Netflix Christmas match-ups to be shown exclusively on the streaming giant.
The NFL wasn’t the only sports league feeling the Christmas cheer. The NBA — which typically dominates the Christmas sports schedule — set the record for its most-watched Christmas Day in five years, averaging 5.25 per game in the U.S. across five games throughout the day, according to Nielsen. million viewers.
The Los Angeles Lakers’ victory over the Golden State Warriors was the most-watched NBA regular season and Christmas Day game in five years, averaging 7.76 million viewers and peaking with 8.32 million viewers. The first game of the day, the New York Knicks’ win over the San Antonio Spurs, averaged 4.91 million viewers, making it the most-watched Christmas Day opener in 13 years.
Overall, the five games saw an 84% increase in viewership over Christmas in 2023. The games were broadcast Disney’s Cable and streaming platforms ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, Disney+ and ESPN+.
The strong ratings were a welcome sign for the NBA, which it is. Struggles with low viewership This year