Limited series “George & Tammy” delivered a strong opening for Showtime and two other Paramount outlets in its Sunday debut.
In total, the premiere was broadcast across three networks – Showtime, Paramount Network, and CMT – drawing 3.3 million viewers. The series, produced by MTV Entertainment Studios, stars Michael Shannon and Jessica Chastain as married country music stars George Jones and Tammy Wynette.
Taking Paramount’s other platforms into consideration, the premiere of “George & Tammy” marked the pinnacle of Showtime’s original series in the multi-platform era.
“George and Tammy made history as the most-watched Showtime premiere of all time, thanks to incredible performances by Jessica Chastain and Michael Shannon,” said Chris McCarthy, President and CEO of Showtime and Paramount Media Networks.
The remaining five episodes of the series will be broadcast exclusively on Showtime. Paramount and other conglomerates are experimenting with amplifying high-priority original series projects with multiple broadcasts across streaming, broadcast and cable platforms.
It’s been more than 10 years since “George & Tammy” was made for Sylvia and Chastain (who also produces through her Freckle Films banner) and others. In a recent interview with diverseChastain said she sought to capture the couple’s “special energy” despite their turbulent relationship.
“When they were performing when they were married and when they were performing when they were separated, there was always something incredibly magical. They knew they were on stage, but it was like they were the only two people in the world, and there was a very special energy,” said Chastain. “That’s what I felt I really wanted to bring to life in this series.”
Based on the memoirs of the couple’s daughter, Georgette Jones, “George & Tammy” was created by Abe Sylvia, who also serves as executive producers along with Andrew Lazar, Josh Brolin, Chastain, and Kelly Carmichael. John Hillcoat directed all six episodes and also served as EP/David C. Glasser, David Hutkin and Bob Yari as executive producers for 101 Studios.
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