Outlander season 3 overall ratings: What do they mean for renewal talks?

Outlander season 3 ratings were higher than season 2, but what does that really mean?

There is lots of talk of the Outlander season 3 finale ratings being down. In truth, it was the 18-49 demographic that was down. As Claire and Jamie reported, the total audience figures were steady compared to the previous episode.

Overall there is even better news. The third season was rated higher than season 2 overall, both in the main demographic and in total audience figures. And those increases weren’t just by a small amount. The demo saw a 45.83% increase based on season 2, while the total audience saw a 38.97% increase.

On top of that “All Debts Paid” became the most-viewed episode of all time, and was overtaken each week after that until “A. Malcolm” finally took the title. This brok So, season 3 performed strongly overall.

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Why specifically look at 18-49 year olds?

For those who don’t understand the ratings, they’re all taken from live + same day viewership. All ratings are based on those with Nielsen boxes at home. All the date across all channels is collected and provided.

These figures don’t include the views directly through the Starz app or any other sources, like Amazon, iTunes, and abroad. Starz will be abl to get viewing figures, but they’re not released for publication. Starz will also likely get access to all the times people have watched episodes again through the app and some other sources.

But what’s so important about the 18-49 demo? This is mostly for other networks. The 18-49 demo is that “key” demo that most shows are created for. Outlander fans will know that most are out of that demographic due to the people who started watching because they’d read the books 20 years ago.

What does this mean for renewal talks?

Starz and Sony are currently in talks for an Outlander season 5 renewal. Season 4 is already confirmed and in the middle of filming. In fact, the writing continues despite it being the holiday break.

Starz renewed the series for two seasons after the season 2 finale. This was despite the demographic seeing a 13.78% drop from season 1. The total audience rating was up by just 4.59%. Sure the move to Sunday could have been a reason for the increase in live views (and that’s what all these figures are), but that suggests that Starz got it right for the season.

Considering the strong performance of season 3, it would be ridiculous for Starz not to renew for season 5. Ron Moore is already confident that a renewal is happening.

Outlander fans should be celebrating. The finale may have been down, but Starz will look at the season as a whole. And that season was excellent compared to previous years. If season 2 can secure a two-season renewal, season 3 should be able to do the same.

Next: 7 shows to watch to get you through Droughtlander

Would you like to see the show renewed for longer? Are you happy to end it with season 4? Share your thoughts below.

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