HATFIELDS AND McCOYS

Kevin Costner’s epic mini-series Hatfields and McCoys set another record for the highest rated show on ad-supported cable. The third and final episode in the series charting the infamous family feud was watched by a record-breaking 14.2 million viewers.

The first instalment in the series scored (a then) record 13.9 million viewers (17 million in total), while the second episode was watched by 13.1 million. That gives the series a very impressive 13.8 million average, and it holds the top three spots on most watched shows on cable (ad supported).

It shows that audiences will still tune-in to a mini-series if the elements are right. Having stars like Kevin Costner and Bill Paxton probably helped, assisted by the direction of Costner’s old friend (and occasional sparring partner) Kevin Reynolds. Costner knows his way around the western genre having starred in Lawrence Kasdan’s Silverado and Wyatt Earp, and he has also directed and starred in Dances With Wolves and Open Range. The three part, six hour series aired on May 28, 29, and 30.

Now, let’s get Costner back on the big screen-in a lead role!

Source: EW