‘Westworld’ episode 3 ratings reach new high

Three episodes into “Westworld,” and it is starting to feel more and more like HBO has a genuine hit on their hands. There may not be a season 2 renewal out there just yet, but we gotta hope that one is coming in the near future.

Sunday night’s new episode drew a series-high 2.1 million viewers, and if that wasn’t exciting enough for you, also consider this: The show also generated a 0.9 rating in the 18-49 demographic. While we don’t care as much about demo ratings for premium cable shows, we do think it is worth mentioning that the Jonathan Nolan drama surpassed both “Quantico” and “Elementary” on network TV in the key measure. Not bad for a first-year show that also is airing on pay-cable.

While the reason for the ratings drop in episode 2 is likely the Presidential Debate, the only real justification for the ratings gain in episode 3 is simply more interest and positive word of mouth. This is a show with the upside of one like “House of Cards” or “Mr. Robot,” which can draw a lot of attention and build exposure over time. We do think that it has a bigger upside ratings-wise than the latter, given that “Mr. Robot” is really only meant for a select audience. How big the ratings go the rest of the season will depend largely on more word-of-mouth, plus also the possible crossover competition with “The Walking Dead,” which is returning on Sunday night to HBO.

At the moment, we think that zombies really are the only thing standing more in the way of further ratings dominance from this show. Even if the numbers don’t improve, we still foresee a lengthy future for it in the years to come.

If you missed it, be sure to check out our recent “Westworld” episode review now.