We’re pretty sure that constitutes a smash hit.
Normal People, Hulu’s screen adaptation of the Sally Rooney novel, has picked up 1.1million streams on the RTÉ player after just six episodes.
Last night’s instalment, Episodes 5 and 6, picked up 343,000 live viewers, making up a 40% share of the 15-34 demographic, and a 39% share for among over-55s. 420,000 people watched last week’s episode on television.
The show, which has won rave reviews as well as controversy for its depiction of sex, is directed by Oscar-winning director Lenny Abrahamson, and Hettie Macdonald, and stars Daisy Edgar-Jones and Paul Mescal in the lead roles.
RTÉ notes that it has received no formal complaints about the series, though 48 individuals have contacted the station to register their unhappiness with the content of the show. The show has been widely praised on social media, with major celebrities such as James Corden and Kourtney Kardashian singling it out for praise.
A spokesperson for the state broadcaster said: “We are only halfway through the hit series and Normal People is already setting records on RTÉ and worldwide. The response and reaction has been hugely positive so far and the figures speak for themselves with over 1.1 million streams on RTÉ Player.
“We’re proud to show the beautiful story about Connell and Marianne on RTÉ, particularly at a time that people at home need some entertainment and escapism.”
The next two episodes of Normal People will air next Tuesday (19 May) on RTÉ One at 10.15pm.
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