“10 Most Watched TV Series Premieres Of All Time, Ranked” — what this page in the network covers. Television history is filled with iconic debuts, but only a select few series premieres have drawn truly massive audiences. Topping the list is the 1983 finale of MASH, which wasn't a series premiere but remains the most-watched single TV episode ever. However, when it comes to series premieres,
However, when it comes to series premieres, the record belongs to The Cosby Show spinoff A Different World, which launched in 1987 with over 38 million viewers, benefiting from its lead-in from The Cosby Show. Other premieres that made history include Full House, which debuted in 1987 to 27.8 million viewers, and Twin Peaks, whose 1990 pilot drew 34.6 million viewers, a staggering number for an offbeat mystery drama. These premieres reflect a time when broadcast networks dominated and a hit lead-in could launch a new show to instant success. The full version stays on the original page, which this listing opens directly.