The Milan Cortina Olympics attracted a huge audience in the United States, averaging 23.5 million viewers. This marked a significant increase compared to previous Winter Games, boasting 96% more viewers than Beijing 2022. This impressive figure includes views from various platforms like NBC, Peacock, and others, indicating a shift in how people watch major events.
Molly Solomon, the executive producer for NBC’s Olympics coverage, expressed her excitement about the Games. She noted that the stunning landscapes of Italy and the close access to athletes enhanced the viewing experience. The use of innovative technology, like first-person view drones, provided an inside look at athletes’ lives and stories, which viewers appreciated.
In Canada, 8.7 million people tuned in to watch Jack Hughes score the winning goal in men’s hockey, showcasing the event’s popularity across borders. Overall, Solomon described the Olympics as thrilling and unpredictable, reinforcing its status as a premier sports event.
The Olympics weren’t the only hits in February. NBC also broadcast the Super Bowl and the NBA All-Star Game, marking the first time a network aired all three major events in one month. Across these events, a remarkable 215.6 million viewers in the U.S. watched at least one program. The Super Bowl 60 drew an average of 125.6 million viewers, making it the second most-watched event in American history.
Recent changes in Nielsen’s rating system may also play a role in this viewership surge, as they reduced the minimum needed to count as a view from five to three minutes.
Rick Cordella, NBC Sports President, commented on the month’s success, highlighting how careful planning and execution led to impressive results.
For more updates on sports events, check out AP Sports.
Source link
2026 Milan Cortina Olympic Games, Olympic games, Winter Olympic games, General news, CT State Wire, 2026 Winter Olympics, New York City, California, Connecticut, Jack Hughes, Sports, Rick Cordella, Molly Solomon, Entertainment, U.S. news, U.S. News
