Disney Entertainment Television marked the nation’s historic 250th anniversary, reaching 49.6 million Total Viewers with the ambitious 24-hour programming block “Disney Celebrates America,” which kicked off Friday, July 3, and continued through Saturday, July 4.
“World News Tonight” anchor and managing editor David Muir led the coverage alongside a powerhouse team of national and local news talent, featuring 70 live remotes and reporting from all 50 states. Coverage included stories about local celebrations and hometown heroes, along with a unique exploration of the seven natural wonders of America.
The sweeping programming event, which was available across ABC, Disney+, ESPN+, Hulu, National Geographic, Freeform, FX and ABC News Live, culminated in a one-of-a-kind celebration from the heart of downtown Nashville, Tennessee, as Emmy® Award-winner Ryan Seacrest hosted the three-hour live special “Nashville’s Star-Spangled Bash.”
“Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest” (12:30-1 p.m. EDT) delivered 5.017 million Total Viewers and a 0.68 rating among Adults 18-49, vaulting to an all-time high in Total Viewers. The half-hour special more than tripled last year’s performance, up +209% in Total Viewers (vs. 1.624 million) and +48% in Adults 18-49 (vs. 0.46 rating) over last year.