Super Bowl Sets New Viewership Record with 126 Million Tune In

PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania — For the second consecutive year, the Super Bowl has shattered its own viewership record, attracting an average of 126 million viewers across all platforms, according to Fox Sports. The record was set during Philadelphia‘s decisive 40-22 victory over Kansas City on February 11, 2025.

This latest figure surpasses last year’s total of 123.7 million viewers on CBS and streaming services, highlighting the enduring popularity of the Super Bowl amid ongoing trends of cord-cutting among audiences.

The peak viewership reached an impressive 135.7 million during the second quarter, enticing advertisers eager for exposure. Fox’s reported viewership included digital streams from Tubi and the NFL‘s official platforms, contributing 14.5 million viewers via online streaming, a significant rise compared to previous years.

Tubi alone accounted for 13.6 million of those viewers, showcasing the impact of free digital access in attracting a broader audience. Despite the increase in streaming, traditional television remains dominant, as a majority of fans still opted to watch the game live on Fox through cable or satellite.

Unlike the previous Super Bowl that featured a nail-biting overtime finish, this year’s event transformed into a lopsided affair by halftime with the Eagles commanding a 24-0 lead. However, viewership remained high, likely fueled by the highly anticipated commercials, the halftime show, and notable celebrity appearances.

In a historic moment, Donald Trump attended the Super Bowl as the first sitting president, adding a significant political element to the festivities. Meanwhile, Taylor Swift’s ongoing relationship with Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce served as a captivating subplot, already contributing to the uptick in NFL viewership this season.

The halftime show, featuring Kendrick Lamar, became a highlight on its own, drawing 131.2 million viewers, showcasing the Super Bowl’s dual identity as both an athletic contest and an entertainment spectacle.

With three consecutive years surpassing 100 million viewers, the Super Bowl has cemented its status as a ratings powerhouse. Advertisers reportedly spent up to $8 million for a 30-second spot, and based on the viewer statistics, their investments proved beneficial.

Looking ahead, next year’s Super Bowl will air on NBC and Peacock, followed by ABC and ESPN+ in 2027 and CBS in 2028. If viewing trends continue, even larger audiences can be expected, especially if the game itself is competitive.