What percentage of television usage in March was attributed to streaming? How did Prime Video’s viewership compare to Hulu’s top show? What was Nielsen’s finding regarding the month-over-month growth of streaming platforms? Which platforms were represented in the Top 10 viewership rankings for March? What role did cable and broadcast viewing play in the overall TV landscape during that month?
March marked a high-profile month for streaming, which represented 43.8% of all television usage during the month, driven by top programs across seven different platforms, according to Nielsen‘s latest monthly report, The Gauge.
Prime Video‘s Reacher came in atop the list with an impressive 6.6B minutes viewed, pacing ahead by quite a large margin, with second place going to Family Guy on Hulu with 4.8B minutes viewed.
Notably, The White Lotus came in fourth place with 4.5B minutes of streaming time — which is a strong showing for the series during the month that its third season aired. Given the way Nielsen measures viewership, this would not include any linear viewing on HBO. Per Nielsen, Max had the largest growth month-over-month of all platforms, increasing its streaming share by 6%, largely on the strength of The White Lotus.
1923 came in at No. 5, which is also noteworthy, given that Paramount+ is a rarity on these charts, as is Apple TV+, which eked into the Top 10 with Severance’s 3.3B minutes streamed.
Unsurprisingly, Netflix had several titles in the Top 10, including Adolescence and Running Point. See the full list below.
Thanks to March Madness, cable viewing also saw a slight uptick, climbing to 24% of TV usage. Cable sports viewing ballooned 29%, led by the most-watched cable sports telecasts in March, which were the NCAA Men’s Elite Eight games between Alabama-Duke and Texas Tech-Florida on TBS. Cable news also had a strong showing, accounting for seven of the top 10 cable telecasts.
Broadcast, on the other hand, fell by 9% versus February to finish off the month with just 20.5% of TV usage. In fact, Nielsen says that the Oscars was the most-watched program in March with 20.3M viewers across ABC and the simulcast on Hulu, once again illustrating the strength of multi-platform distribution.
Interestingly, CBS seems to be buoying live broadcast viewership, because five of the Top 10 broadcast telecasts in March came from a singular show — Tracker.
See the full TV usage distribution in the graphic below.
Reacher, The White Lotus, and More: March’s Top Streaming Titles
March has arrived, bringing with it a plethora of new and returning titles to streaming services that cater to a wide range of tastes. From thrilling action series to satirical dramas, this month’s streaming lineup promises to keep viewers engaged and entertained. Among the standout titles are the highly anticipated second season of “Reacher,” the award-winning “The White Lotus,” and a host of other engaging programming that showcases the diversity and innovation of modern storytelling.
Reacher: Season 2
Following the success of its inaugural season, “Reacher” returns for a second chapter that dives deeper into the world of Lee Child’s beloved character, Jack Reacher. Amazon Prime Video’s adaptation has received acclaim for its engaging storytelling, compelling performances, and gripping action sequences. Season 2 picks up where the first left off, with Reacher, played by the charismatic Alan Ritchson, embroiled in a series of complex mysteries and high-stakes confrontations.
This season is particularly notable for its fleshed-out plotlines and character development. Viewers can expect to see a blend of psychological intrigue and physical confrontations as Reacher faces off against both old and new adversaries. The series has masterfully managed to balance the violence and grit inherent to Reacher’s world with moments of levity, showcasing the character’s humor and intelligence. Fans of action-driven narratives and detective stories will find this season to be not just a continuation but a robust expansion of Reacher’s universe.
The White Lotus: Season 2
HBO’s “The White Lotus,” known for its razor-sharp social commentary and dark humor, returns for a much-anticipated second season. The anthology series, created by Mike White, has captivated audiences with its exploration of privilege, identity, and human connection within the confines of luxury resorts. Season 2 shifts the narrative to an idyllic setting in Sicily, where a new group of wealthy patrons finds their escapades interwoven with unexpected challenges and conflicts.
The ensemble cast this season includes a mix of familiar faces and fresh talent, each contributing to a tapestry of interrelated stories that probe the intricacies of human behavior. With its trademark wit, the show continues to highlight stark contrasts between the lives of the ultra-rich and the realities faced by those who serve them. As the guests indulge in their extravagant lifestyles, the underlying tensions and secrets come to the forefront, creating a compelling and often unsettling viewing experience.
Critics and fans alike are eager to see how the thematic depth of the series continues to evolve while maintaining its engaging narrative style. Season 2 promises to keep viewers on their toes, weaving suspense and unexpected twists into its narrative threads, making it a must-watch this March.
Murder Mystery 2
In a lighter vein, Netflix’s “Murder Mystery 2” brings back the delightful duo of Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston as they reprise their roles as Nick and Audrey Spitz. This comedy sequel ups the ante as the couple turns their from bedroom sleuthing to becoming full-fledged private detectives. What starts as an invitation to a lavish wedding quickly turns into a whirlwind of mischief and murder, requiring the Spitzes to navigate a series of humorous obstacles and misadventures.
Sandler and Aniston’s chemistry makes for a fun-filled ride, but it’s the comedic script, infused with witty dialogue and zany scenarios, that keeps the momentum going. As the titular mystery unfolds, viewers can expect an array of colorful characters and ludicrous plot twists, proving that laughter can be just as captivating as dramatic storytelling. “Murder Mystery 2” is perfect for those looking to unwind with a lighthearted flick while enjoying the antics of their favorite comedic stars.
The Mandalorian: Season 3
Disney+’s “The Mandalorian” has become a flagship series for the Star Wars franchise, and its third season promises to delve even deeper into the lore of the galaxy far, far away. Following the journey of Din Djarin and Grogu, this season will explore the challenges they face as they confront old enemies and forge new alliances. With stunning visuals and high-stakes storytelling, “The Mandalorian” continues to capture the imagination of both new fans and long-time Star Wars enthusiasts.
The series has consistently pushed creative boundaries within the Star Wars universe, making it a standout in the crowded streaming landscape. As familiar faces return and new ones emerge, viewers can expect a blend of action, adventure, and emotional storytelling that has become the hallmark of this hit series.
Conclusion
March’s streaming offerings should excite audiences with a mix of new and returning favorites that highlight the dynamic landscape of television today. From thrilling action in “Reacher” to satirical brilliance in “The White Lotus,” and the comedic charm of “Murder Mystery 2,” there’s something for everyone. As viewers settle in for a month filled with compelling narratives and captivating characters, it’s clear that streaming continues to be a powerful medium for storytelling, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions in ways that resonate deeply with audiences around the globe.
Whether you’re in the mood to solve a mystery, explore the intricacies of wealth and privilege, or simply enjoy some lighthearted fun, March’s streaming titles have you covered. Grab your popcorn, find your cozy spot on the couch, and prepare for a month of unforgettable entertainment.
March has brought a fresh wave of engaging content to streaming platforms, highlighting a diverse array of series and films. Among the standout titles is “Reacher,” based on Lee Child’s popular Jack Reacher novels, which continues to captivate audiences with its action-packed storytelling and compelling lead performance.
In the realm of dark comedy, “The White Lotus” continues to make waves with its intricate storytelling and sharp social commentary. The series explores the lives of wealthy vacationers at a luxury resort, unraveling both humor and drama as secrets are revealed.
With a blend of thrilling narratives and rich character development, March’s streaming offerings have something for everyone, ensuring that viewers have plenty to binge on as they transition into spring. Whether you’re in the mood for action, drama, or a darkly comedic take on life’s complexities, this month’s lineup is sure to satisfy.