Netflix & NFL make history with record-breaking Christmas day viewership

Netflix and the NFL shattered records on Christmas Day, delivering a historic viewing experience to millions worldwide.

According to Nielsen data, an unduplicated audience of nearly 65 million US viewers tuned in to the doubleheader, making it the most-watched Christmas Day in NFL history. The Ravens-Texans game (24.3 million AMA) and the Chiefs-Steelers game (24.1 million AMA) both secured their place as the most-streamed NFL games ever in the US.

The Beyoncé Bowl, a special halftime performance during the Ravens-Texans game, captivated viewers, peaking at over 27 million viewers.

Beyond the US, the games generated significant global buzz. #BeyonceBowl became the top worldwide trend on X, surpassing even #Christmas itself. Netflix dominated social media trends, occupying 10 of the top 12 trending topics on X in the US.

"Bringing our members this record-breaking day of two NFL games was the best Christmas gift we could have delivered," said Bela Bajaria, Netflix Chief Content Officer.

"We’re thrilled with our first Christmas Gameday on Netflix with NFL games being streamed to a global audience," added Hans Schroeder, NFL executive vice president of media distribution.

This successful debut marks the first year of a three-season partnership between Netflix and the NFL for Christmas Day games.

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