The most watched TV series in terms of viewership is a topic that can vary depending on the criteria used—such as live viewership, streaming numbers, or cumulative global audience. However, one of the most widely recognized and consistently popular TV series in recent years is "Game of Thrones."

Game of Thrones: A Global Phenomenon

"Game of Thrones," based on George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire novels, aired on HBO from 2011 to 2019. The series became a cultural juggernaut, captivating audiences worldwide with its intricate storytelling, complex characters, and high production values. At its peak, the show averaged over 44 million viewers per episode across all platforms (live TV, streaming, and on-demand). The series finale in 2019 drew 19.3 million live viewers in the U.S. alone, making it one of the most-watched episodes in HBO's history.

The show's global appeal was undeniable. It was broadcast in over 170 countries and translated into 47 languages, making it one of the most widely distributed series ever. Its influence extended beyond television, sparking countless discussions, memes, and even academic analyses.

Other Contenders for Most-Watched TV Series

While "Game of Thrones" is a strong contender, other TV series have also achieved massive viewership:

1. "MAS*H" (1972–1983)*
   The series finale of "MASH," titled Goodbye, Farewell and Amen, remains the most-watched single episode of a TV series in U.S. history, with 105.9 million viewers** tuning in live in 1983. The show's blend of comedy and drama resonated deeply with audiences during its 11-season run.

2. "The Big Bang Theory" (2007–2019)
   This sitcom about a group of socially awkward scientists was a ratings powerhouse. Its final season averaged 18 million viewers per episode in the U.S., and the series finale drew 18.5 million live viewers. Globally, the show has been syndicated in over 150 countries, making it one of the most-watched sitcoms of all time.

3. "Friends" (1994–2004)
   "Friends" remains a cultural touchstone, even decades after its finale. The series finale attracted 52.5 million viewers in the U.S., and the show continues to draw massive audiences through streaming platforms like Netflix and HBO Max. Its global popularity is unmatched, with fans in virtually every corner of the world.

4. "Breaking Bad" (2008–2013)
   While its live viewership was modest compared to other shows, "Breaking Bad" became a global sensation through streaming. The series finale drew 10.3 million viewers, and its spin-off, Better Call Saul, has further cemented its legacy.

5. "Stranger Things" (2016–Present)
   Netflix's "Stranger Things" is one of the most-watched streaming series of all time. Season 4, released in 2022, amassed over 1.35 billion hours viewed in its first 28 days, making it one of Netflix's most successful releases.

Global Reach and Cultural Impact

When considering the most-watched TV series, it's important to factor in global reach and cultural impact. Shows like "Squid Game" (Netflix, 2021) have demonstrated the power of streaming platforms to create instant global phenomena. "Squid Game" became Netflix's most-watched series ever, with 1.65 billion hours viewed in its first 28 days. Its success highlights the shift in how audiences consume content in the digital age.

Similarly, long-running series like "Doctor Who" (1963–Present) and "The Simpsons" (1989–Present) have amassed billions of cumulative views over decades, making them some of the most-watched shows in history.

Conclusion

Determining the most-watched TV series depends on the metrics used. If we consider live viewership, "MAS*H" holds the record for its finale. For global streaming numbers, "Squid Game" and "Stranger Things" are frontrunners. However, when factoring in cumulative viewership, cultural impact, and global reach, "Game of Thrones" stands out as one of the most-watched and influential TV series of all time. Its legacy continues to shape the television landscape, proving that great storytelling transcends borders and platforms.