Stephen Colbert's Late Show set a new ratings record with its highest weekly share and viewership since 2015, despite the show's cancellation announcement, driven by a strong audience in both total viewers and the key 18-49 demographic.
Love Island USA's latest season has become a cultural phenomenon in the US, breaking ratings records and resonating with viewers through its authentic portrayal of contestants seeking genuine love and emotional vulnerability, contrasting with previous seasons and international versions. The show reflects a new generation's approach to reality TV, emphasizing self-awareness, mental health, and realness, which has contributed to its surge in popularity amid a broader cultural shift.
The NCAA tournament national title game between South Carolina and Iowa shattered the ratings record for a women’s college basketball game, averaging 18.7 million viewers and peaking at 24 million. South Carolina's victory marked their third national title under head coach Dawn Staley, and the game was the most-watched basketball game since 2019. Iowa's Caitlin Clark played a significant role in attracting viewers, with the game drawing 89% more viewers than last year's edition and 285% more than in 2022.
The NCAA women’s basketball national championship game between South Carolina and Iowa set a new viewership record, drawing in 18.7 million views with a peak of 24 million viewers, marking an 89% increase from last year and a 285% increase from 2022. South Carolina's win over Iowa was the most-watched sporting event outside of American football and the Olympics since 2019. The game featured South Carolina's quest to remain undefeated and win its second championship in three seasons, as well as Caitlin Clark's attempt to end her collegiate career with a national championship. Despite Clark's impressive 30-point performance, Iowa fell short, but her impact on the sport was acknowledged by South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley, who credited her with lifting up women's basketball.