On December 25, 2024, Netflix achieved a milestone by broadcasting two NFL games exclusively, attracting approximately 65 million viewers across the United States. This marked the highest number of streamed NFL games in history, according to Nielsen’s data. The Baltimore Ravens versus Houston Texans game averaged 24.3 million viewers, while the Kansas City Chiefs faced the Pittsburgh Steelers, with an average viewership of 24.1 million. Notably, the Ravens vs. Texans game saw a spike in attendance during Beyoncé’s halftime show, reaching over 27 million viewers.
Bela Bajaria, Netflix’s chief content officer, expressed gratitude for this record-breaking day in a press release, highlighting the partnership with the NFL and the performances by artists such as Beyoncé and Mariah Carey. This event was part of a three-year deal allowing Netflix to air NFL Christmas games.
In a broader context, the NBA also experienced a surge in viewership during the Christmas holiday, achieving the highest ratings in five years. The Lakers’ win against the Warriors was the standout game, averaging 7.76 million viewers. Total audience engagement increased by 84% across five games compared to the previous year, showcasing the growing popularity of both leagues during this festive period.