On March 24, 2022, Paramount+ premiered a TV series based on one of the most celebrated first-person shooters — Halo. For the uninitiated, this first-person shooter originally got released for Xbox in 2001 and has become a massive hit that has spawned sequels and spin-offs, totaling 16 games since then. Its popularity has become widespread, not to mention its protagonist, Master Chief, has become somewhat of an icon.
With that in mind, it’s no surprise that Paramount+ was able to see a record high viewership for a premiere of a show in its service history thanks to the new series, or at least that’s according to them. The streaming platform doesn’t unveil exact numbers or data to back up their claim, however, Deadline points out that their release of Yellowstone’s prequel, 1883, held the previous record, which roped in 4.9 million spectators within 24 hours.
We've been waiting for this moment. #HaloTheSeries pic.twitter.com/6JaLb9NuZP
— Halo on Paramount+ (@HaloTheSeries) April 8, 2022
If we are to assume that number and take the streaming service’s word for it, that just means that this live-action adaptation of Halo broke that record. That’s within 24 hours on a global scale.
Adapting the game
With the Halo universe set in the backdrop of an interstellar war between humans and aliens as the main setting for the show and with millions of fans of the game anticipating the series, it’s not surprising a lot is expected for the show to deliver. In fact, Paramount+ even renewed it for a second season even before its premiere release.
Suit up, Spartans. The wait is almost over. #HaloTheSeries premieres March 24 exclusively on @ParamountPlus with a second season already ordered. pic.twitter.com/xWPP3wOJfE
— Halo on Paramount+ (@HaloTheSeries) February 15, 2022
According to Tanya Giles, Chief Programming Officer at Paramount+, they are thrilled to release Halo as it is “one of the most rewarding efforts for Paramount+ to date and we could not be more thrilled at the massive fan response to the series debut”. The streaming platform has collaborated with Showtime, Amblin Television, and of course, the game’s developers, 343 Industries, to bring this beloved sci-fi game to life — or at least, on screen.
YouTube: Halo The Series (2022) | Official Trailer | Paramount+
Photo credit: The feature image used is owned by Halo Waypoint and has been provided for press usage.
Sources: Nellie Andreeva (Deadline) / Halo Waypoint
